Empowering Young Women: Queen Anne鈥檚 School Celebrates Wellbeing Week
Queen Anne鈥檚 School, renowned for its dedication to nurturing the holistic development of its students, recently celebrated Wellbeing Week with a series of engaging activities and workshops aimed at promoting mental health and self-care among girls aged 11-18.
The week underscored the school's commitment to supporting the mental and emotional well-being of its students, an essential aspect of their educational journey. This commitment has also been recognised as Queen Anne's School was a finalist in the Wellbeing and Mental Health category of the Boarding Schools Association awards.
The week commenced with an inspiring session led by local author Mali Baker, who captivated the students with a reading from her book, River Baker and the Warriors of RALA. The story, featuring a young heroine who navigates difficult decisions with courage and resilience, resonated deeply with the students, sparking numerous questions about the narrative and Baker's creative process. "Mali's reading was enchanting and truly drew us into River's story, inspiring many of us," shared one of the L4 students.
Adding a physical dimension to the wellbeing activities, L5 students participated in a wellness walk organised in collaboration with Sport in Mind, a charity that emphasises the mental health benefits of physical activity. This walk served as a practical reminder of the positive impact that staying active can have on mental wellbeing.
Bernadette Russell, author of How to be Hopeful, delivered an uplifting talk on the power of kindness. She engaged students with simple yet meaningful tasks that demonstrated how small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Her session included a motivational video about her Year of Kindness, inspiring students to incorporate kindness into their daily lives.
A highlight of the week was the Gratitude Tea Party, organised by the school's Wellbeing Prefect, Beth, and the L6 students. This event was a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the staff at Queen Anne’s School, recognising their unwavering support and encouragement throughout the academic year. The tea party, held in the sunshine, was a delightful occasion that fostered a sense of community and gratitude.
In another enriching session, Shifu Miao Xiao Sun, along with one of his students, introduced the concept of Qi in Daoist medicine. They demonstrated Qi Gung breathing techniques, providing students with practical tools for maintaining good health and reducing stress.
To promote healthy eating, the school's catering team, Thomas Franks, hosted a Wellbeing BBQ for boarders. Despite the weather preventing an outdoor event, the students enjoyed a nutritious feast featuring grilled chicken, chickpea burgers, smoothies, and a vibrant salad bar. The BBQ highlighted the importance of nourishing the body with healthy food to support overall wellbeing.
Queen Anne’s School's Wellbeing Week was a testament to the institution's dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its students. By prioritising mental health through diverse and engaging activities, the school ensures that its students are well-equipped to navigate their educational journey with resilience and confidence.
May 2024