Wellbeing is at the heart of what we do at RCHK. Working with our community, we created our own model for wellbeing at the college.
At our college, we maintain a deep understanding of the importance of fostering a positive and healthy learning environment and fostering the five aspects of wellbeing central to our heart of RCHK - health, environment, a sense of accomplishment, relationships and gratitude. We approach these aspects of wellbeing with a particular focus on five constructs. This approach is exemplified in the explanatory video.
By prioritising mental health, integrating wellbeing into the curriculum, fostering peer connections, and organising wellbeing events, Renaissance has continued to create an environment that nurtures the holistic development of our students.
Our Approach
Wellbeing is embedded throughout our school community. We take a tiered approach to the wellbeing support that is provided in school, as shown in this diagram. Recognising the significance of mental health to overall wellbeing, RCHK embeds mental health support into this tiered approach.
Counselling at RCHK
We are fortunate to have a dedicated counselling team that offers regular one-on-one counselling sessions on stress management, anxiety reduction, and emotional resilience. The counsellors and social workers see students who are self-referred, teacher-referred and parent-referred, as well as supporting groups within the school, including the integration of new students.
Emotional Literacy Support
In the Primary school, a team of Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs) trained at ESF Centre, support students who show needs in areas such as bereavement, friendship problems, conflict resolution, anxiety and anger management. The ELSAs also offer transition support: running integration programmes for new students and transition support for students as they progress from one year to the next. These services have aimed to create a safe space for students to express their concerns, seek guidance, and develop coping strategies.
Wellbeing integration in the curriculum and college life
RCHK actively integrates wellbeing into the curriculum across various subjects and year groups. Teachers incorporate lessons and activities that promote emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and self-care. These efforts help students develop a deeper understanding of their emotions, build healthy relationships, and practice self-reflection. The House system continues to support students by providing an additional community to feel they belong.
Recognising the positive impact of peer connections on student wellbeing, trained student mentors have been paired with younger students to provide guidance, friendship, and support. These programs have created a sense of belonging and fostered positive relationships among students, contributing to a nurturing and inclusive school environment.
The approach to wellbeing has been evolving at RCHK for ten years, in consultation with students, staff and the wider community. We are always open to conversation about how our approach to wellbeing has evolved and developed, and might continue to do so. Our approach to wellbeing for our community at RCHK can be found here.
