We’ve been reviewing the feedback from Larkmead School’s ‘Make a Difference’ week in July, during which Nicola and Taz spent five days training and supporting sixth form volunteers to deliver a series of well-being workshops to approximately 180 Year 7 students.

The toolkit consists of five workshops each focusing on a different area important to wellbeing: Nature, Physical activity, Acts of kindness, Creativity, and Relaxation and reflection.

The sixth formers demonstrated genuine commitment to the project from day one. Many had personal reasons for choosing to get involved with the Toolkit for Happiness initiative, including: ‘To help younger years deal with stress that comes from school and life’ and ‘To help me build confidence speaking in front of a big group of people.’

6th form volunteers reported that they enjoyed:

‘Making friendships and creating a bond with the younger years.’

‘Seeing the kids make friends, especially the quiet kids.’

‘Building bonds with my groups and seeing the evolution of their comfort working with me.’

The year 7’s feedback highlighted how much they’d enjoyed the activities and being alongside the 6th formers:

‘We liked the physical activity and we liked the drawing because we liked the freedom.’

‘We enjoyed the teabags and mixing the different scents together.’

‘We like the way the 6th formers interact with us.’

Skipping activities were a big hit with both the Year 7 students and the sixth formers. Many also said they enjoyed the craft sessions, spending time outdoors, and taking part in sensory activities—like making herbal tea bags to take home.

A big thank you to all the students for providing such valuable feedback. These insights are incredibly important and will help us make sure that the Toolkit for Happiness project continues to be impactful and effectively support students—both those delivering the workshops and the younger pupils taking part.