Circles for Learning: A small group and whole class project for schools to support the development of positive strategies for Mental Health and Wellbeing.

This study explored the impact of the Circles for Learning (CfL) Project. This included staff training, parent-baby observations sessions in the classroom and follow-up teaching and learning sessions, within a variety of secondary school environments over three terms. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected to look at the impact of the project on the five areas identified to form the foundations of Mental Health and Wellbeing (MHWB): Relationships, Emotional Literacy, Sense of self, Skills for Learning and Neuroscience and Learning. The project worked with 4 secondary schools from the UK including two mainstream schools, a SEMH school, a special school for ASC, and a special school for children and young people with severe and complex learning needs. This involved 40 children from across the schools from KS3, KS4 and KS5. Staff were all trained to both introduce and deliver the project within their school environment using the CfL resources with the age range of their choice. All Lead Practitioners were trained teachers.
Assessments undertaken to measure the impact of the project on Children and Young People (CYP) included Emotional Literacy, Effective Lifelong Learning and Butler Self-image profile. Evidence from staff included semi-structured interviews which were then analysed using IPA, Staff feedback forms after training, Staff teaching logs and questionnaires pre and post project.
The findings strongly suggest that CfL developed self-esteem, emotional literacy and strengthened social skills with CYP. It also showed an impact on staff-student relationships and a classroom environment supportive of MHWB.