A NEW programme focused on mental health and wellbeing was launched last month at a Bradford primary school.

Pupils and staff at St Matthew’s CE Primary School in West Bowling are taking part in the programme to boost their mental health, and gain the Wellbeing Award for Schools.

To start the programme, a Wellbeing Week was held, with lessons focusing on themes around mental health.

Activities such as yoga, reading and debate were held, and creative performers also visited to work with pupils, and parents are also being involved in the programme.

The process for gaining the Wellbeing Award for Schools has already begun at the school.

Nicki Deane, deputy headteacher, who is leading on the programme, said: “The Wellbeing Week has been a really good way of showing pupils and families how important emotional health and wellbeing is, and how much we value it at St Matthew’s.

“The week itself was great. All of the activities, both those run by our staff and by visitors, made the children think about various aspects of wellbeing.”

Kay Remmer, headteacher, added: “Many schools are providing the resources for children and staff to improve emotional wellbeing and mental health.

“We want our children to be in a fit state to maximise learning and recognise that it is OK to say, ‘I’m not OK’.”