Hello Yellow Day

Today, the team members at Gilbert Ward Academy went all out for Hello Yellow Day to raise awareness of the importance of mental health — for both children and colleagues.

They even had Ilona dress up as a banana (and later pass the costume on to Richard) to spark conversations about the links between healthy eating and positive mental wellbeing. Every member of the team started their morning with a banana as part of breakfast — a small but symbolic way to remind them how nutrition can influence how they feel and function.

Alongside the fun, Gilbert Ward also shared some really positive news with the school community today:

• They will soon be welcoming a counsellor from Kalmer Counselling, who will be in school three days a week to support the pupils
• They are also beginning a new partnership with Children and Young People’s Services (CYPS) — a member of their team will visit each half term to discuss any pupils they are concerned about, making sure that they are accessing the right support early on

For Gilbert Ward Academy, as an SEMH school, this kind of proactive support for children’s mental health is vital, but so too is looking after their colleagues. Today’s been a brilliant reminder that small acts, shared smiles, and a banana or two can make a real difference.