Children’s Mental Health Week 2026
From 9–15 February 2026, schools and communities across the UK marked Children’s Mental Health Week, a national annual campaign. The week shines a spotlight on the importance of young people’s mental wellbeing, encouraging open conversations about emotions, challenging stigma, and reminding every child that they are not alone. At its heart, the campaign empowers children to understand that their feelings matter — and that support is always available.
This year’s theme, “This is My Place,” invited children and young people to reflect on where they feel they truly belong. Whether that sense of belonging is found with friends and family, within school, through sport, faith, creativity or hobbies, the theme encouraged pupils to explore the connections that help them feel safe, valued and understood.
As always, St Mary’s CE High School embraced the campaign wholeheartedly. We focused on fostering a strong sense of belonging, identity and community across our school. Research consistently shows that when young people feel connected and secure, they are more likely to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Creating a culture of inclusion and care remains at the centre of our mission.
Supported by our dedicated Student Wellbeing Ambassadors, a whole-school activity brought students together in a celebration of individuality and shared experience. Students were invited to create their own “My Place” maps — thoughtful and creative pieces of artwork identifying the people, places and activities that help them feel comfortable, confident and supported.
Students also engaged with inspiring video resources created by artist Ricky Martin, best known to many as Art Ninja’s Art Ninja. His creative approach encouraged pupils to express themselves through art as a positive outlet for emotions and self-discovery.
It was wonderful to see students coming together to celebrate their uniqueness while recognising the shared need for belonging. The finished artwork beautifully reflected the diversity of our school community — each piece different, yet united by a common message: everyone deserves a place where they feel accepted and valued.
Children’s Mental Health Week serves as an important reminder that supporting mental wellbeing is not limited to one week in the year. At St Mary’s, we remain committed to nurturing an environment where every student feels heard, supported and proud to say, “This is my place.”
