Written by Ms Knowles, Deputy Head Pastoral
As the Deputy Head Pastoral at Oxford High, I see firsthand the incredible dedication and drive of our students and staff. It’s truly inspiring to watch our students strive for excellence, both academically and in their co-curricular pursuits. It has been lovely to see all of the house points awarded so far this year via the pupil achievement logs and I really am in awe of all the amazing things our pupils do.
However, I also know that when students set such personal high standards comes a potential for pressure, which is why prioritising wellbeing has never been more important. We live in an age where busyness often seems like a badge of honour. The demands on our time—academic pressures, co-curricular activities, and the constant juggle of personal and social lives—can often lead to burnout if we don’t take a step back. But it’s crucial to remember that wellbeing is not something to squeeze in when we have time; it should be something we actively make time for, especially when life feels particularly hectic.
In the spirit of fostering a healthy and balanced school environment, we are excited to announce a series of events during our Wellness Week, which will take place in the week commencing 3rd February . These activities have been thoughtfully designed to offer our students a chance to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and focus on their mental and physical health, no matter how busy life gets. It isn’t about taking away times of pressure, but instead helping students balance the commitments and interests alongside their wellbeing.
Mindfulness Colouring and Creative Activities
Starting with mindfulness colouring, we are encouraging students to immerse themselves in the calming and creative act of colouring, allowing them a much-needed break from academic rigour. This simple yet effective practice has been shown to help reduce anxiety, improve concentration, and give the mind a chance to reset. It’s a wonderful way to ground yourself and take a few moments to just be, rather than constantly doing.
Year Group Bonding Activities
Another highlight of Wellness Week will be our year group bonding activities. These are designed to foster connections between students and create a sense of community. Whether it’s leading wellbeing initiatives to Prep school pupils, or simply spending time together over juice and cookies, these activities remind our students that they are not alone in their school journey. Strong connections with peers and teachers have been proven to enhance emotional wellbeing. In a world where it’s easy to feel isolated, especially with the pressures of social media, these bonding moments are more valuable than ever.
Know Yourself Non-Uniform Day
We are also celebrating individuality through our Know Yourself Non-Uniform Day, where students will have the opportunity to dress in a way that reflects their personality, interests, and self-expression. It’s important that our students feel comfortable in their own skin and learn to embrace their unique qualities. In a school environment where academic achievement is a priority for lots of our students, allowing time for self-expression is an essential part of nurturing our students’ confidence and self-worth.
Physical and Fun Activities
Wellbeing is not just about mental health—it’s about nurturing the body too. That’s why we’re offering a variety of physical activities that are designed to be fun and accessible. From the energetic and upbeat Zumba sessions to the classic joy of Just Dance and the more relaxed atmosphere of swimming and croquet, there’s something for everyone. These activities provide an opportunity to release stress, boost endorphins, and encourage physical movement—whether that’s through dancing, swimming, or simply enjoying time outside.
For those looking for a lighter, yet equally enjoyable experience, we also have Karaoke and nail painting. These might sound simple, but they can offer a surprisingly effective way to unwind and have fun in the midst of busy routines. Singing, laughing, and even doing something creative with nails can provide a sense of joy and remind us that life is not all about achievements but also about enjoying the small, happy moments.
Wellness Walking
One of my personal favourites is the wellness walking sessions. Taking time out for a walk, even if just around the school grounds or to the local park, allows our students to clear their heads, get some fresh air, and take in their surroundings. It’s an opportunity to reflect, step away from the noise, and regain clarity. Walking has been shown to have multiple health benefits, including reducing stress and improving mood, and it’s a great way to promote mindfulness in motion.
As we look ahead to Wellness Week, I hope that our students and staff will embrace these opportunities. Wellbeing is a fundamental part of thriving—not just surviving—throughout the school year. Even during busy times, we must carve out space to nurture our bodies and minds. By prioritising our wellbeing, we enable ourselves to perform better, be more productive, and, most importantly, lead fulfilling, balanced lives.