On Friday 19 October we held our first Student Wellbeing Day at UTC Swindon.
The aim of the day was to give our students a day off timetable, allowing them to take part in a range of sessions and workshops about mental health. This gave the students some ideas and strategies on how to cope and manage stress during this crucial time in their life.
Among the many activities available on the day, students enjoyed a resilience programme where they learnt how to overcome difficult situations without losing a positive attitude. Specialist local support group, U Turn, gave an interesting overview of illegal substances young people may come into contact with, along with the potential side-effects and implications of use.
Kay and Teressa, our learning mentors, supported by an art student from Swindon College, took part in a mindfulness graffiti workshop. During this session, students – even those who claimed they couldn’t draw, expressed themselves by putting their thoughts onto rolls of paper.
As our body is essential when keeping a healthy mind, there were also several activities focused on mind-body balance. Buzz Gym gave students a session about how to work-out using only their own weight (no equipment). This was so they can exercise for free anywhere, and most importantly, that they learn not to lift anything too heavy and can therefore avoid injuring themselves.
Buzz Gym staff also taught students how much sugar is in some of their favourite soft drinks, and consequently, how much exercise they need to do in order to burn off only one bottle!
There was still space for some self-defence and martial arts workshops, where students could learn how to defend themselves in a street fight or hazardous situation. Last but not least, some of the UTC Swindon staff members gave a knitting, crochet, beauty and nails session.
We want to thanks all the students, staff, and other participants who gave up their time to support the Student Wellbeing Day event!