Wellness & Wellbeing

Dene Academy prides itself on encouraging a strong community both inside and outside of school. One of the ways we promote this is through the House system, comprising of four different houses. The four houses are named after local castles: Barnard; Durham; Lumley and Raby Castle.

The House system offers pupils an opportunity to be part of a community and witness a democratic framework within their own school. The House system within Dene Academy also creates solidarity and builds on pupils’ awareness on the importance of being part of a community and work well as a team.

Healthy competition is encouraged through all aspects of the House system, both inside and out of the classroom. Competitions are held throughout the year and the winners earn points for themselves and their House and have fun at the same time.  Pupils can earn positive points throughout the school day. They are awarded within the classroom for effort and participation within the lesson and also for making good progress over time. Points can also be given for attending extra-curricular activities and going ‘above and beyond’.

Dene Academy ensures that students emotional wellbeing and mental health are supported to allow all students to be fully engaged in their learning environment.

Tutor time is another chance for students to take part in a Wellbeing & Wellness programme. During the wellbeing tutor activities students learn about, discuss and reflect on their wellbeing and ways to look after their own mental health. Wellbeing includes good physical health, feelings of happiness, satisfaction and successful social functioning. This time positively influences the way our students interact in their environments. Students will develop a strong sense of wellbeing which provides them with confidence and optimism which maximises their learning potential. Wellness & Wellbeing education aims to promote resilience, providing students with the capacity to cope with day-to day stress and challenges.

Wellbeing tutor activities:

Term 1

Where to go for help

Mental health

Healthy eating

Physical activity

Anti-bullying week

Social wellness

Sleep

Term 2

Stress and resilience

Eating concerns and body image

Mindfulness

Vaping, nicotine and drugs

Alcohol

Personal growth and confidence

Term 3

Nature

Self-care

Good choices and happiness

Dealing with depression

Screen time

Cold water shock kills