We recently hosted our third successful Wellbeing Day, a vibrant event with the aim of nurturing the mental health and resilience of our pupils and students. Taking place on the final Thursday of the Lent Term, this day of introspection and community engagement left a lasting impact on all who participated.

The day commenced with insightful talks from exceptional professional speakers including:

• "Self-help rules to keep you healthy" by Chris Singleton, founder of Transparency Theatre Company
• "Online Safety - being an upstander" by Charlie Benson, Childnet
• "Managing the stresses of life" & "Setting up for Exam Success" by Alicia Drummond, CEO of Teen Tips
• "Gaming and Gambling - What’s the worst that can happen?" & "Gaming and Gambling - Friend or Foe?" by Patrick Foster, CEO GAM-Ed

Through their empowering discussions, we gained valuable insights into positive strategies for maintaining mental wellbeing, emphasising the importance of self-care and resilience.

One of the highlights of the day was a charity netball match organised by Alice, an Upper Sixth student, in support of Nabugabo, Pangbourne's partnership school in Uganda. The match not only showcased the spirit of camaraderie within the Pangbourne community but also raised funds to support three pupils for a year at Nabugabo. Alice's dedication and fundraising prowess, alongside Poppy Shepherd's initiatives as Nabugabo CCs (prefects), exemplify the school's commitment to service and global citizenship.

During the afternoon Activities slot, students had the opportunity to explore a diverse range of wellbeing sessions led by staff members. From dog walking to weaving, miniature model painting to drumming, these sessions provided students with a chance to discover new interests and relaxation techniques. The positive feedback received from both students and staff underscored the success of these engaging activities.

To conclude the day on a light-hearted note, boarders were treated to an evening of entertainment featuring a comedian. Laughter filled the air, serving as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest joys are the most therapeutic. 

Mrs. Caroline Bond, Assistant Head of Pupil Mental Wellbeing and one of the organisers of the event remarked: “It was a really enjoyable event in which students were made aware of the importance of looking after their mental wellbeing with many examples of positive strategies and ways in which they could care for themselves. All in all, it was a positive and empowering day to finish off the Lent Term.”

Pangbourne College's Wellbeing Day was a resounding success, fostering a sense of community, resilience, and empowerment among its students. Through a combination of insightful talks, charitable endeavours, and engaging activities, the day exemplified the school's commitment to nurturing the holistic development of its pupils and students.