Past event
Health does not operate at a singular level; mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Our physical body depends on our mental state and vice versa and improvement or decline in one area can trigger improvement or decline in the other. Therefore it is vital to understand and engage with health and wellbeing from a holistic perspective.
The benefit of physical activity on the mental wellbeing of children and young people is strongly supported. Numerous psychological effects, including on self-esteem, cognitive function, mood, depression, and quality of life, have been shown – exercise can enhance mood and self-esteem while decreasing stress levels. Pertinently, stronger effects have been found when participation in physical activity occurred in a school-based setting. Conversely, poor physical health significantly increases the risk of mental health difficulties, often accompanied with physical symptoms such as headaches and poor sleep.
Diet is another important risk factor of ill health and also one of the most preventable. Poor nutrition may be a causal factor in the experience of low mood, and improving diet may help to protect not only physical health but mental health too.
Clearly, a better understanding of the relationship between mind and body is imperative to help researchers, practitioners, and policymakers tackle co-existing conditions, support those experiencing difficulties, and promote universal healthy behaviours. This conference will explore the latest research and practical guidance on key aspects of prevention which can enhance protective factors and reduce risk factors related to the dual aspects of mental and physical health.
| 10:05 | Introduction from the Chairs Jonathan Glazzard, Michelle Jayman, Anthea Rose, Aimee Quickfall; Mental Health, Wellbeing and Education SIG Convenors |
| 10:15 |
Fuelling Young Minds: From Science to Action – How Diet & Nutrition Support Student Mental Health & Well-being in the Classroom |
| 10:35 | An evaluation of the “Well Schools” approach for supporting teacher and pupil wellbeing: a case study approach Sarah MacQuarrie, Alex Hennessey; University of Manchester |
| 10:55 | Interactive Workshop: The Mindful Movement Programme – Mind-body connection through adapted martial arts exercises Scott Buckler, Harriet Moore; Holy Trinity School, Kidderminster |
| 11:20 | A mixed-methods examination of the feasibility, mechanisms, and effectiveness of an outdoor learning intervention for young people (aged 11-16) at-risk of school exclusion Ben Gibson; De Montfort University |
| 11:40 | Panel Discussion Presenters and Chairs |
| 11:55 | Closing Comments |
| 12:00 | Event Close |
Rosalind Hollis Professor of Education for Social Justice at University of Hull
Jonathan Glazzard is the Rosalind Hollis Professor of Education for Social Justice at the University of Hull. He researches LGBTQ+, mental health, disability and early literacy. In 2018, he became co-convenor of the BERA SIG for Mental Health...
Researcher/Senior Lecturer at University of Roehampton
Michelle Jayman is a developmental psychologist with a strong background in education and extensive work experience in schools. She is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Roehampton and a Champion for the British Psychological...
Research Fellow at Loughborough University
Anthea Rose is a research fellow at the Lincoln Academy of Learning and Teaching (LALT), University of Lincoln. She is currently leading the local Lincolnshire evaluation of the Uni Connect programme, funded by the Office for Students (OfS),...
Head of School - School of Education at Leeds Trinity University
Aimee is Head of the School of Teacher Education at Leeds Trinity University, one of the BERA SIG leads for Mental Health and Wellbeing, and a member of the BERA Conference Committee. Her research interests are well-being and workload in...
Chartered Teacher at Holy Trinity School
Scott is a Chartered Teacher and a Chartered Psychologist, with a career in primary and secondary education, eLearning, and various roles in higher education. He currently leads Computing and Information Technology at Holy Trinity School, an...
Lecturer/Researcher at Roehampton University
Dr Christle Coxon is a registered associate nutritionist (ANutr), lecturer and researcher at the School of Psychology, University of Roehampton. Her research focuses on the links between diet, lifestyle, and mental health and sleep across the...
Senior Lecturer at University of Manchester
I am a psychologist whose expertise lies in the application of research into practice and use this in my position as Senior Lecturer in Psychology of Education at the University of Manchester.
Senior Lecturer at The University of Manchester
My research spans the development and application of social cognition in children and young people. My particular interests include: school-based social and emotional wellbeing; the impact these areas have on education and achievement; the role...
Lecturer in Applied Psychology at De Montfort University
Early career researcher, trainee health psychologist, and lecturer in applied psychology at De Montfort University. I specialise in well-being and mental health.
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Working together for a whole-education approach to mental health and wellbeing
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Health does not operate at a singular level; mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Our physical body depends on our mental state and vice versa and improvement or decline in one area...
