We’ve launched a new weekly wellbeing session for our students called Mindful Moments — a space designed to support emotional health through mindfulness, meditation, and sensory activities. The sessions create a calm, welcoming environment where our students can explore tools for managing stress and building emotional resilience. 

Held in our immersive 4D learning space, the sessions make full use of the room’s wraparound video and sound technology. Students are surrounded by soothing nature scenes and calming audio, with soft blankets and pillows available to help everyone feel safe and comfortable. Each session begins with a gentle check-in, giving students the option to share how they’re feeling. 

The sessions draw inspiration from Metta meditation, also known as loving-kindness meditation, which encourages participants to silently repeat phrases of goodwill and compassion for themselves and others. It’s a simple yet powerful practice that helps nurture self-awareness, empathy, and a sense of emotional connection. 

What makes Mindful Moments especially meaningful is that it’s co-created with our students. Early on, they expressed an interest in using sound to help with relaxation, leading to special sessions with Sound Gong practitioners. This collaborative approach ensures the sessions are truly relevant and empowering for everyone involved. 

Facilitator of the programme Holly Hudson commented, 'Overall, the Mindful Moments project is providing meaningful and impactful support for students, encouraging emotional expression, relaxation, and a stronger connection to their own wellbeing.' Holly and other tutors and facilitators have noticed the effect of this across all our projects. Holly noted that, 'Staff members and I have witnessed students reminding themselves to breathe throughout the day when they feel dysregulated. This is a lifelong skill that will continue to support them well beyond the classroom. I am incredibly proud of their growth, resilience, and commitment to their own wellbeing.'

One standout moment came from Charlotte, one of our student health and wellbeing ambassadors. After regularly attending the sessions and feeling the benefits, she volunteered to lead part of one herself. Charlotte chose a familiar guided breathing video, positioned herself at the front of the room, and led a calming 15-minute session using body movements to demonstrate each breath. Her leadership created a peaceful atmosphere, and many students joined in with ease. 

Afterwards, she told staff, 'I would love to do this again. I want to lead more health and wellbeing activities for my friends. I feel so calm now!'

Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and interest is growing. With support from the group, our next focus will be exploring calming scents as part of the sensory experience. 

Mindful Moments is proving to be more than just a weekly session; it’s a valuable and evolving wellbeing tool, empowering students to connect, reflect, and care for themselves in ways that can last a lifetime.