Our Health and Wellbeing team is operating a virtual centre for pupils during the temporary school closure – picking up appointments, receiving phone calls and attending virtual meetings via video chats – ensuring the care we give reaches out to the Bede’s community around the world.

Health is never predictable and although it’s a cliché to say no day is ever the same, it’s essential that we are able to be available for any eventuality – from sports injuries to mental health needs. The whole team really cares for the pupils; we are so rooting for them and want to help them feel their best and see the joy in life. However, we understand how the teenage mind can make life seem so confusing, exciting and  frustrating with emotions swinging from sheer joy and hysterical laughter to utter misery and loneliness all within an afternoon... It's our job to listen, guide and encourage and we have the honour of not being the parent or disciplinarian which helps create a less emotive relationship. 

The temporary move to a virtual centre is evolving and will never have quite the same social element as a face-to-face meeting, however it is reassuring to be able to check in with pupils and know they are coping. An unexpected delight has been being introduced to pupils’ pets who often wander in during consultations!

So far, so good. Our counselling service is also offering the same service and the feedback has been really positive. We will keep going forward, improving and enjoying this new way of working for now. 

Learn more about the Health and Wellbeing Centre at Bede's Senior School