How the new Welsh curriculum is setting out to help pupils thrive

The AoLEs include core areas of study such as literacy, numeracy and science, but also recognise expressive arts and health and wellbeing as equally important. The Health and Wellbeing AoLE not only aims to support children and young people's physical health, but their mental health and emotional wellbeing as well. The curriculum shines a light on the importance of developing fulfilling relationships, a robust stress regulation system and empathy, and recognises wellbeing as a vital element of successful learning.

It is exciting to see so many aspects of the new curriculum that align with the principles of Thrive and echo the theory that is central to our Approach. Both the Vision and Philosophy of the Health and Wellbeing AoLE, and the What Matters Statements, emphasise the importance of mental health and emotional wellbeing, and acknowledge that relationships play a fundamental role.

With training for adults on key concepts, language, and how to teach self-awareness, the new curriculum presents great opportunities. This is an important move in ensuring a whole-school approach to supporting the social and emotional development of children and young people - so they can thrive.

Over to you

Reduced anxiety and behavioural incidents. Calmer classrooms filled with engaged leaners. Improved relationships with parents and carers. These are just some of the outcomes reported by settings embedding Thrive’s whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing. Are you ready to join them? Click here to get started.