Mindfulness on the curriculum at St Martin’s Primary School, Belleek

School principal Brian McGrath recognised the need to introduce mindfulness practice as a means of “promoting well-being among pupils”.
Mindfulness means paying more attention to the present moment, to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you.
“We are the first school in Fermanagh to undertake a course of mindfulness for our pupils in the form of a programme called Relax Kids,” stated Mr. McGrath.

Primary four, five and six pupils are currently taking the class.
Mr. McGrath explains the course “offers a unique system of children’s relaxation and mindfulness that will help children decrease stress and anxiety, increase attention span and improve concentration.” 
The programme, which is delivered by a local play therapist, also supports good mental health, pupil self-esteem and resilience.
The classes incorporate movement and exercise, mindfulness and relaxation, games, stretching, peer or self massage, breathing techniques, affirmations and visualisations. 

Each class is based on an imaginative theme.
It gently introduces children to simple and fun mindfulness tools that can be used in all areas of their lives.

Mr. McGrath said: “A pop-up class was offered during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week which took place at the beginning of February. 
“The reaction from pupils and parents has been very positive to date with parents keen to have their children involved,” he added.