Children’s Mental Health Week: Well-being in Focus
In just a month, the UK will be observing Children’s Mental Health Week, a time when schools, charities, government bodies, and local authorities across the country raise awareness about the growing mental health challenges facing children. Kim Powell, Head of Wellbeing at Bowdon Preparatory School, shares how the school is fostering emotional resilience and supporting the well-being of its pupils.
At Bowdon Prep, well-being isn’t reserved for special occasions – it’s woven into the fabric of our school day. From morning greetings and circle times to mindfulness breaks and acts of kindness, our core value Care for All guides everything we do. We care for ourselves, for one another, and for our wider community.
During Children’s Mental Health Week, in partnership with Place2Be, the UK’s leading children’s mental health charity, and taking place from February 9th, 2026, we will explore this year’s theme: “Know Yourself, Grow Yourself”. It’s a powerful message that encourages children to build self-awareness and feel empowered to speak openly about their mental health.
Understanding who we are is the first step in growing into confident, resilient individuals. At BPS, we are proud to nurture an environment where emotional well-being is at the heart of everything we do. This year, we were delighted to open our new Calm Space – a dedicated retreat for quiet reflection, meditation, or simply a moment of stillness. In a busy school setting, it serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of rest and balance for both staff and pupils.
Our philosophy is simple: children learn best when they feel calm, safe, and happy. As educational psychologist Daniel Goleman reminds us, “Emotional well-being is not just a side benefit to education; it is the foundation of learning itself.” Research from the Mental Health Foundation also shows that positive mental health enhances motivation, concentration, and social connection – all vital for effective learning.
We truly believe that when well-being comes first, everything else follows.
A great read. Thank you!
Important
It is so important to focus on mental health at an early age, making sure they are self aware of their feelings.
This is very important, and always has been, so glad we are more aware these days.