Mental Health Week Scotland was a huge success at New Cumnock Primary School. We were fortunate to have had visiting specialists come and deliver sessions throughout the week to support this:

Pauline Auld from PA Dance Academy delivered dance sessions; Sharon McQuillan from ShapeShift Fitness Studio delivered Yoga & Mediation sessions; Gina Scott from Bunnylove brought her petting zoo; and James McDonald (Paddy), East Ayrshire’s Countryside Development Officer delivered learning activities in the Wildlife Garden, as well as land art and river dipping.

As well as this, the children took part in food preparation activities, nature walks to Knockshinnoch Lagoons, Art activities, class games, kindness activities, a movie session and a picnic in the playground afternoon.

During this time, the children have truly excelled, demonstrating a great understanding and engagement with the themes and activities presented. They enthusiastically participated in a variety of activities designed to support good mental health, showing a remarkable ability to connect with and benefit from each experience. Their proactive approach to learning strategies for self-help was particularly impressive, as they not only absorbed the information but also applied it in meaningful ways. The children’s ability to reflect on their mental well-being and that of their peers was evident, as they shared insights and supported each another throughout the week. Their exceeding expectations in this area is a testament to their maturity, empathy, and commitment to personal growth. We are incredibly proud of the children’s achievements during Mental Health Week Scotland and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in all aspects of their learning journey.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped support or deliver these wonderful experiences for the children: parent helpers, visiting specialists and the hard work and dedication of all the school staff who continually strive to give our children a diverse variety of enriching learning experiences.