Nurturing minds, shaping futures 

Recently, Apeejay School, Noida, hosted a highly impactful CBSE Capacity Building Programme on Promoting Mental Health and Wellness among Students. The aim was to reinforce the school’s commitment to holistic education and student well-being. The workshop brought together educators from diverse institutions with the shared goal of understanding and addressing the growing importance of mental health within school ecosystems.  

The session was led by a distinguished panel of resource persons whose expertise added immense value to the programme. Dr Veena Mishra, National Awardee and noted educationist with a strong focus on STEM and environmental awareness, shared deep insights into the evolving needs of learners. She was joined by Dr Neha Sharma, Director-Principal of Apeejay School, Noida, along with Ms Monika Sharma, CBSE Resource Person, mentor, and Principal of Shalom Presidency School, and Ms Aparna Singhal, Clinical Psychologist, mental health advocate, and Founder of Psych Port. Their collective perspectives created a rich and engaging learning environment for all participants.  

Designed to be interactive and reflective, the workshop moved beyond conventional discussions to include hands-on activities that encouraged educators to introspect and engage meaningfully. Through role-plays, scenario-based exercises, and collaborative discussions, participants explored ways to identify early signs of stress, anxiety, and behavioural challenges among students. The sessions emphasised practical, classroom-ready strategies that teachers could implement to create emotionally safe and supportive learning spaces.

A key highlight of the programme was its focus on empathy-driven teaching practices. Resource persons stressed the importance of active listening, positive reinforcement, and fostering open communication to build trust and resilience among students. Equally important was the emphasis on teacher well-being, with discussions underscoring that emotionally balanced educators are better equipped to support and guide their learners effectively. 

To ensure sustained impact, participants were provided with comprehensive handouts containing key concepts, intervention strategies, and additional resources. These materials are expected to serve as valuable references, enabling educators to extend the learning beyond the workshop into their everyday teaching practices.

The session concluded on a reflective and appreciative note, with participants acknowledging the relevance and depth of the programme. Many expressed that the workshop not only enhanced their understanding of student mental health but also equipped them with actionable tools to nurture a more inclusive and compassionate classroom environment.

The CBSE Capacity Building Programme at Apeejay School, Noida stood as a meaningful initiative, fostering awareness, sensitivity, and proactive engagement towards building emotionally resilient school communities.