YOGA, fun fitness challenges and conversations are helped to reduce children's anxiety during lockdowns.

Alderley Edge School for Girls is celebrating after being nationally recognised for its mental health and wellbeing support for students and staff by being shortlisted for an award from the Independent Schools Association.

The school been named as a finalist in the category for Excellence and Innovation in Mental Health and Wellbeing with the winner being announced next month.

Judges were impressed by innovative projects implemented throughout the pandemic that helped support pupils and staff to be more resilient, reduce anxiety levels and promote a positive work life balance.

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Every pupil was able to benefit from a tailored programme of support.

Headmistress Nicola Smillie said: “I am thrilled that our school has been nominated for such a prestigious award.

"Promoting positive mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of our mind. As the girls have returned to school this academic year we have continued with our wellbeing initiatives.”

Knutsford Guardian:

Alderley Edge School for Girls

Various projects were introduced.

The youngest girls took part in heritage days which promoted family life and helped with social interaction as well as enjoying virtual birthday parties.

Senior girls joined weekly yoga sessions.

Assemblies gave everyone the chance to pause from their learning and take time to think about their own mental health and wellbeing of their classmates.

The whole school participated in Mental Health Awareness Week and Children's Mental Health Awareness Week.

Pupils completed a virtual challenge running from the school to New York.