Mental Health Awareness Week and Student Mental Health

As a team who cares deeply about the lives of young people, this week we discussed #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. We explored how we as a company contribute to improving student mental health through the positive effects of work experience and career guidance, and shared our personal experiences with mental health.

Struggling in traditional settings

Hollie knows that self esteem issues and lack of motivation can contribute to disengagement in classroom based learning. She highlights the profound impact work experience had on her journey, confirming her aspirations of working in education and inspiring other young people.

“Our Project 25 program helps struggling students build confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. It sets them back on the right path.”

Sam, drawing from his own mental health journey, urges us to revisit and enhance existing support mechanisms for struggling students. He encourages educators to rethink existing provisions, and expresses his pride in working on Project 25, which directly supports students facing similar challenges.

“I have seen first hand the positive impact it has on students that are really struggling to thrive in the academic setting just like I did.”

Scott recognises that the traditional academic setting may not suit all students. He emphasises the importance of providing quality work placements to engage students and promote a positive outlook on their futures.

“A more vocational approach might just be what these students need to feel engaged and give them a positive outlook on their opportunities moving forwards. All driving towards an improvement in mental health.”

Neurodivergent students and support

Careers advisor Cynthia offered insights on suitable careers for those with ADHD, such as teaching, computer technicians, chef, and sales/customer service roles, and the associated skills.

“ADHD is a form of neurodivergence that can feature inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Those of us with the condition who do not choose the correct type of career can definitely be affected by mental health concerns: feeling we are not achieving well in our work and study. However, if harnessed correctly, these behaviours can make people with ADHD ideal for some jobs.”

Luke challenges us to support students in raising aspirations and providing the necessary support systems. He encourages us to create environments where student mental health can flourish.

“As we adapt to the ‘new normal’ post-pandemic, and having seen first hand the effect this has had on young people’s mental health, I wanted to challenge us all, as we raise awareness for #mentalhealthawarnessweek, to consider how we can support young people to raise aspirations, improve their mental health and provide the ecosystems necessary for them thrive.”

Encouraging positive mindsets

Martin speaks with students in schools everyday, and their positive attitudes make such a difference to his own mindset.

“Talking with students today about #mentalhealthawareness, and how they struggled through Covid, but how they have come back stronger, with positive self belief. It is such a privilege to listen to these stories.”

Heather shares her commitment to helping young people challenge negative self-perceptions and find their paths with confidence. She stresses the importance of providing guidance early on to prevent the stress of uncertain futures.

“It means a lot to me that I can have an impact in helping young people challenge their own negative imagined ideas of themselves.”

Fostering a community

Matthew Hodgkinson, co-founder of our organisation, shares his personal outlook since the pandemic.

“I sit here years later in awe of The Changing Education Group. It’s a community of people who genuinely care about the lives of future generations.”

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Week, the stories we shared as a team remind us of the importance of promoting and actively engaging in helping students with their mental wellbeing. Let’s continue to empower students and the thousands of school staff across the UK who nurture young people’s aspirations.

Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of young people, and create an environment where student mental health is prioritised.

We provide a full range of all-in-one Work Experience and Careers Advice packages for schools and colleges across the UK. With 12+ years of experience in Education and Technology, we give you the right tools and guidance to run the most effective work experience programmes for your students. If you’re interested in a discussion or a demo on any of these services, call or email our team:

Call: 08000289088 Email: info@changingeducation.co.uk