Altus Academies Mark Children’s Mental Health Week 2026
Altus Academies have proudly supported Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, embracing this year’s theme, “This is My Place”, led by Place2Be. The week strongly reflects the mission of Altus Education Partnership: to advance education in the borough of Rochdale and its surrounds so that young people lead happy and fulfilling lives and make positive differences to their communities and society. Promoting belonging and wellbeing is central to achieving that vision.
Throughout the week, pupils and students have taken part in special PSHCE lessons, assemblies and tutor sessions focused on identity, positive relationships and what it truly means to belong. Many academies created dedicated ‘Time to Talk’ opportunities, giving children and young people the space to share their thoughts and experiences in a supportive environment. Activities celebrating connection and community have included pupil and student-led initiatives such as “We Belong” benches, relationship-building lunchtime games and themed “Come As Yourself” days, alongside fundraising events that brought academy communities together.
Staff across our academies also played an important role in modelling belonging and appreciation, with gestures such as staff-to-child appreciation cards recognising effort, kindness and contribution. Parents and carers were invited to attend forums and evening events focused on mental health guidance and support, strengthening the partnership between home and school.
We were pleased to work with external partners, including Kooth, who delivered assemblies and highlighted the importance of connection while reminding pupils and students that confidential support is available both in and beyond their academies. Pupils and students were also signposted to counselling and drop-in services delivered in partnership with Place2Be, ensuring they know where to turn if they need help.
Across our settings, the MyHappyMind wellbeing programme has continued to support pupils’ and students' understanding of gratitude, resilience and emotional regulation, with families encouraged to access the Parent App to extend learning at home. The week also provided an opportunity to share clear information about wider wellbeing and safeguarding support, including local NHS services and trusted organisations such as YoungMinds and Rochdale Mind, as well as guidance around online safety.
From visible acts of solidarity to meaningful conversations and practical guidance, Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 has once again demonstrated Altus academies’ shared commitment to creating environments where everyone matters - and everyone belongs - ensuring our young people are supported not only to succeed academically, but to thrive personally and socially too.
