“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted”, Aesop reminds us, and that message has been shining across all Cumbria Education Trust schools this term.
Anti-Bullying Week, 10 to 14 November, and World Kindness Day, 13 November, offered a perfect opportunity for pupils and staff to celebrate compassion, individuality, and the importance of speaking up. Schools embraced the theme of ‘The Power of Good’, encouraging children to carry out random acts of kindness and explore how kindness supports both physical and mental wellbeing.
Bullying affects the lives of thousands of young people every year in the UK, and silence allows it to continue. This year’s national campaign aims to empower young people to use their voice, stand together, and raise awareness whenever they witness bullying, whether face to face or online.
Across CET schools, odd socks made a joyful appearance, celebrating the simple idea that everyone is unique. Beneath the fun sits a powerful message, showing that differences should be respected, valued, and embraced, not just for one week each year but every single day.
At Caldew Lea Primary, Year 6 pupils took the lead by guiding discussions and sharing positive, kind messages that the whole school community could use and reflect on.
Supporting this work, every CET school has a dedicated Mental Health and Wellbeing Plan created by our Wellbeing Champions. These staff are backed by a strong network of Mental Health First Aiders, easily recognised by their green lanyards, who help ensure pupils and colleagues feel listened to, supported, and seen.
To learn more about the CET wellbeing offer, visit: https://www.cumbriaeducationtrust.org/wellbeing/
It’s full of support, guidance, and practical tools to strengthen wellbeing across our school communities.