King’s decided to recognise National Mental Health Awareness Week, writes Alison Grant, Deputy Head.

The week was held in order to start a conversation and begin to chip away at the stigma surrounding the subject. We began with an assembly on the numbers of those suffering in the UK and the School heard a letter written by Archie Cobb (Blackford House Leaver - 2016) on why he took part in the Isle of Wight Ultra Marathon with six friends, all of whom are Old Brutonians, to raise money for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) in memory of Harry Corbett (Lyon House Leaver - 2016).

The theme of the week was to de-stress, achieved by having fun with friends, being kind to each other and respecting our differences.  The optional free events were short and not at times when the pupils were otherwise working. Having no obligation to attend appeared to boost the numbers.

The week began with tutors introducing self-help flashcards, guiding pupils through five ways to maintain good mental health. After lessons, the Cha-Cha Slide dance was played at full volume to 100 odd pupils, with the dance being led by some very cool looking L6^th Form pupils. Do watch the video of the dance below. This was followed by an impromptu U6^th Form performance of the Macarena.  Tuesday focused on our local Reflexologist, Sarah Crossfield, who gave several self help workshops to staff and pupils followed by a hand massage which was soothing and relaxing. Wednesday saw some adventurous walks with tutors, when in 50 minutes they managed to get as far as the Bruton Dam and Wyke! Others opted for afternoon tea at At The Chapel and Hauser & Wirth. Wednesday's Chapel Service also focused on Mental Health Awareness, giving a helpful and warm perspective from the Bible.

Thursday included a very competitive game of five-a-side football, with the winners after a penalty shootout, sharing the chocolate prize for the sake of solidarity. This was followed by New House leading 130 pupils in our very first Bingo Night. This also became competitive as the prize of several large boxes of Haribo sweets was appealing. The week finished on Friday with nine dogs from Bruton and the local Somerset and Dorset Rescue Centre who came to play, run and sleep to the amusement of all, finishing in the boarding houses with afternoon tea and cake. An album of photos from the week can be seen below.

Alison Grant - Deputy Head