special report
Nature nurtures Leweston School provides a programme of sport and outdoor learning accessible to all, supporting and enhancing pupils’ personal development and academic achievements. Director of sport Sara Guy said: “In an age of growing concern about mental wellbeing, particularly in children, and incidents of teenage depression, anxiety and stress rising, sport and exercise can provide an effective drug-free treatment with multiple studies concluding that regular aerobic exercise can reduce the symptoms of clinical depression. “Whilst some children thrive on competition, finding this a
release from personal and academic pressure, others benefit from noncompetitive recreational activities.” The school also provides health and wellbeing elements in its lunchtime and after-school activities programme, including spin class, cycling, tree-climbing, Zumba, yoga, KundaDance and sailing. The school has 46 acres of grounds; pupils are encouraged to go outdoors and as many activities as possible are offered outside. Walking is encouraged and the numerous dogs on-site are available for exercising, bringing stress-busting benefits. Leweston has a history of excellence in
running and are current U13 National Prep School Cross-Country Champions. Visual enrichment is popular. “Running has a particularly strong mental health impact and, combined with the sight of trees and nature, can have a restorative effect on participants. Cross-country runs are available most lunchtimes with staff taking out small groups on request. The Friday run typically numbers up to 45 staff and pupils, almost 25% of the school’s population.” The school’s PSHE programme also highlights the value of physical activity to pupils, particularly approaching exam time. Students are encouraged to find a healthy balance between academic study and physical recreational activity. As a result of this encouragement, “A significant number of pupils choose to participate in recreational sport who would not normally be confident, willing or able to perform competitively, and some proceed into teams they would never have expected to join, increasing their confidence and self-worth.”
Sport, sleep and stress
Leweston provides a programme of sport and outdoor learning 36 | ie-today.co.uk | @ISS_magazine
Physical activity triggering brain chemicals, making you happier and more relaxed, is a step toward strong mental health, according to Rydal Penrhos School head of physical education, Nicky Head. “Participating in this kind of activity three to five times weekly for at least 30 minutes can provide these mental health benefits. When you are physically active, your mind is distracted from daily stressors. This can help you avoid getting bogged down by negative thoughts. Exercise reduces your body’s levels of stress hormones while stimulating endorphin production. “Sports and other physical activities improve sleep quality by helping you fall asleep faster and deepening sleep. Sleeping better can improve your mental outlook the next day and improve mood.” Rydal Penrhos School holds regular talented athlete seminars focusing on various performance areas, the mental health and wellbeing element of this having increased considerably in recent years, giving pupils a broader perspective on how to stay positive both individually and motivating others to do the same. Rydal Penrhos also has a school counsellor for anyone wishing to discuss a specific problem, and holds wellbeing form sessions and meditation assemblies, further promoting positive mental health. Head believes team sports in particular provide a chance to unwind and engage in a satisfying challenge improving children’s fitness. The end results are uplifting for all.