The halls of Oryx were filled with positive energy, connection, and reflection as the whole school came together to take part in Wellbeing Week, a five-day celebration dedicated to supporting the emotional, physical, and mental health of our school community.
With a different theme each day, staff and students from both the Primary and Secondary phases engaged in a variety of meaningful activities designed to promote wellbeing and self-awareness. The event coincided with our celebration of World Mental Health Day.
A Theme for Every Day
Each day of Wellbeing Week focused on a key aspect of personal wellbeing:
- Sunday: The Importance of Connections and Sharing
Students produced green bunting with a personal message or drawing related to Wellbeing. The day had extra feel-good vibes, as this also marked Teacher Appreciation Day. - Monday: The Importance of Self-Care
Staff and students wore green, as self-care took centre stage on Monday. Pupils produced ‘Emotional First Aid Kits’, to help them explore practical strategies for nurturing their own mental and emotional wellbeing when feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. - Tuesday: The Importance of Sleep
Our young learners in EYFS and KS1 enjoyed a cosy pyjama day as part of their exploration into the connection between sleep and wellbeing. Students also got creative by designing their own pillowcases, each one highlighting key aspects of good sleep hygiene. The day featured fun and educational activities, including quizzes on the benefits of quality sleep. - Wednesday: The Importance of Physical Health
Students explored the essential role physical health plays in overall wellbeing. Our young learners did yoga sessions, while our older Primary pupils learnt a breathing technique to help manage stress and regulate the nervous system. Our Secondary students had a 5-minute Mindfulness session, teaching them how present-moment awareness can reduce anxiety, improve focus and contribute to better emotional and physical resilience. - Thursday: The Importance of Reflection
The week concluded with a calm and thoughtful day, with students reflecting on their favourite part of Wellbeing Week. Our young students were treated to an extra special Storytime.
Whole-School Involvement
Beyond student activities, Wellbeing Week was embraced by the whole school community. Staff participated in “Random Acts of Kindness”, fostering a supportive and uplifting work environment. Meanwhile, students were delighted to participate in a Wellbeing Egg Hunt, which contained various feel-good missions, adding a playful element to the week’s events.
A highlight for many was when members of our Senior Leadership Team, along with Secondary and Administration staff, took time out of their busy schedules to read to a story to our young learners. These reading sessions were a powerful symbol of connection and community, showcasing the shared commitment to wellbeing across all areas of school life.
“This week was about more than activities – it was about the importance of connecting together and empowering students to build on their own foundations of good wellbeing.” added Mrs Elaine Rayen, School Wellbeing Counsellor.
Student Voices
Throughout the week, students shared their own thoughts and feelings about the importance of looking after themselves and each other:
“I really liked the day about self-care. It made me realise how important it is to take time for myself.” (Year 9 student)
“The sleep session helped me understand why I feel tired sometimes, and now I want to try going to bed earlier.” (Year 5 student)
Support from Orbital Education
The official Oryx Wellbeing Week was topped off by a visit from Mr Michael Clack, Director of Education and Regional Head of Schools at Orbital Education.
Oryx were proud to welcome students from across the Orbital Education Group for an insightful session on First Aid for Youth Mental Health (FAYMH).
Sixth Form students from both Oryx and United School International (USI) came together for this valuable presentation and seminar, led by Mr. Michael Clack, a certified NUCO trainer. He delivered a presentation and seminar to our Secondary students, creating a safe space to discuss mental wellbeing, ask questions and build awareness around identifying and supporting mental health needs.
This session was a perfect conclusion of the Oryx Wellbeing Week and came just after World Mental Health Day (October 10th) - a timely reminder of how important it is to pause, reflect, and connect.
Mr. Clack shared: “It was a real pleasure to meet students from both schools and deliver this seminar. Mental health first aid is essential, especially as exam season approaches. I hope this session offered helpful insights and empowered students to support each other.”
After the training, students from USI enjoyed a tour of our Sixth Form facilities building new friendships and strengthening our Orbital community.
At Oryx International School, we believe that academic excellence begins with emotional balance. That’s why we’ve invested in full-time wellbeing support, with Mrs. Rayen (Mental Health and Wellbeing Counsellor) and Mrs. Tobun (School Counsellor) working hand-in-hand to care for our students’ mental wellness every day.
Looking Ahead
Wellbeing Week has left a lasting impact on the school, sparking important conversations and hopefully inspiring new habits. “We are already looking forward to building on the momentum and incorporating more wellbeing-focused initiatives into the school year” concluded Mrs Elaine Rayen – Wellbeing Counsellor.
At Oryx International School, wellbeing isn't just a one-week initiative - it's a core part of our community.
Want to learn more about mental health and how to support it?
🔗 World Health Organisation Mental health (who.int)
