Educating hearts and minds

eTwinning schools highlight the importance of taking a holistic approach to education that prioritises mental health. In this article, we highlight inspiring practices that support mental wellbeing using a variety of methods.

Providing safe spaces for students to express themselves and seek support is a key step. At Tallinna Lasteaed Pääsusilm pre-primary school, teachers implement the ‘Free of bullying’ programme, which focuses on bullying prevention by trying to understand children’s behaviour and addressing any underlying issues. They hold regular meetings where pupils can freely discuss their emotions. The school also engages in a gardening project, teaching pupils about patience and the value of gradual growth – valuable lessons in today’s fast-paced world.

At Volksschule Waltendorf Primary School in Graz, the spotlight is on encouraging open communication. Understanding pupils’ mental wellbeing includes starting the day with an invitation to share their thoughts, encouraging open discussions between them and implementing representative practices such as class councils. There is also dedicated mental health support for pupils (such as mental training sessions), which contributes to wellbeing. The school also believes in the importance of recognising achievements, to support pupils’ self-esteem and unique talents.

Meditation and mindfulness are powerful tools to promote mental clarity and reduce stress. For instance, at 13th Helioupolis Primary School in Athens, students who arrive early can participate in special meditation classes. These sessions help them relax and focus on the positive aspects of their lives, such as happy memories and personal projects.

Similarly, the Agrupamento de Escolas de Batalha in Portugal has implemented the ‘Movement through the Pause’ initiative, in which pupils participate in guided meditation sessions and breathing exercises. Furthermore, during its ‘Ubuntu week’ programme, the school conducts activities aiming to improve self-knowledge, empathy, resilience and self-confidence. Through reflective exercises and team-building activities, pupils develop a sense of solidarity and mutual support.

Promoting mental wellbeing at CIPFP Ciutat de l’Aprenent in Spain involves building strong relationships within the classroom community. Teachers dedicate the beginning of their class to informal conversations, allowing pupils to share their weekend activities or any concerns they may have. This approach helps to mitigate conflicts and promotes a sense of belonging among pupils.

The digital world brings unique challenges to mental wellbeing, which the project ‘RRH: Respectful Responsible Healthy online communication’ addresses by promoting healthy digital habits. Students create infographics, share manifestos on online communication and give presentations on preventing unhealthy digital behaviours such as hate speech. These activities encourage them to reflect on their mental health and explore constructive ways to address these challenges.

Collaboration is a key element in all these initiatives. Through eTwinning projects and activities, students forge connections with peers abroad, and discover shared interests and concerns. This sense of connection and mutual experience improves their mental wellbeing.

Learn more about the importance of mental wellbeing at school in the upcoming eTwinning book.