Throughout last week there were assemblies marking World Mental Health Day, the theme this year was ‘Mental Health For All’ #DoOneThing. The assemblies suggested ways in which to acknowledge each other, listen, be patient, be a friend, smile and be kind.

On Saturday, Reverend Jack at both the individual House Chapel services asked pupils to take a moment of reflection and in their year group pews to use the post its supplied to write encouraging messages to their neighbours. These will be delivered to Houses this week to brighten each other’s days.

Amy and Poppy who are U6 Mental Health First Aid Supporters in Edinburgh spoke about well-being activities to take part in during half term. They are part of a cohort of Upper Sixth pupils who are committed to reducing stigma and are prepared to have open conversations about mental health. They have been training with the utmost respect, maturity and curiosity that the School Mental Health Practitioners would expect from Gresham’s pupils.

Both assemblies included musical performances that offered time to contemplate.