We know that the transitions at schools, college and university can be an exciting but daunting experience for many students. It can be very overwhelming for young people and these transitions can become a big source of stress and anxiety for some.
Whether a young person is starting primary or secondary school, further education, changing schools, or leaving for university, this transition period needs to be carefully managed. If a young person struggles with a transition, it can have a negative impact on their wellbeing and academic achievement.
Signs that someone is struggling with an educational transition
Spotting that someone is struggling isn’t always easy. Here are some of the things to look out for which may suggest a young person is struggling with their transition to a new stage in their education:
• lower than expected progress
• disinterest in school and learning
• difficulty fitting in or making friends
• increased absences
• disruptive or challenging behaviour
• not able to settle into a routine
What schools and further education settings can do to help with big transitions?
• Communication is key – encourage open communication where students can express their thoughts, feelings and worries
• Engage with parents and carers to form a unified approach
• Prepare for big transitions beforehand by implementing things like well-being programmes to help students tackle those changes
Well-being programmes to support transitions
By implementing well-being programmes into educational environments, that include things like mindfulness practices, we can help students to navigate change more effectively.
Mindfulness can help young people to regulate their emotions and focus their attention as well as developing their resilience and compassion towards themselves and others. Additionally, it can open a channel of discussion with adults, making it easier to discuss any thoughts, worries and concerns.
These skills will help students prepare and cope with change by focusing on how to recognise and manage their own thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Managing mental health & wellbeing within educational environments has never been as important as it is now!
At Mindful Me our programmes have made a tangible impact on the mental health & resilience of the people we’ve worked with, our simple & straightforward techniques offer real practical solutions for educational environments.
For a free consultation and to find out more about how we can help with important transitions at your school, college or university please contact us here.