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Mental Health Week at OSC

This past week here at East Surrey College and John Ruskin College, we have supported our staff and students with a range of activities and talks in different areas with a focus on movement and supporting wellbeing.

Across both colleges the Life Skills Department hosted cake sales to raise money for a charity chosen by staff and students. The sales were hosted by students on both campus’, at ESC they raised money for the Lucy Rainer Foundation, donating a total of £127.32. At JRC, they raised £51.20 for Off the Record Youth Counselling. Raising a total of £178.52 for some fantastic charities. 

Doris, LSA Support said, “The sale went well, I was surprised at how many students came and was willing to donate as they knew it was for charity. Students loved going around to different departments to sell more cakes. The students loved taking part.”

Student Charlie from Life Skills said, “I really enjoyed it because it gave me a bit more confidence, gave me a sense of belonging, and I would definitely do it again.”

At JRC we also hosted Off The Record on Monday and Legacy Youth Zone on Thursday for talks in reception, as well as a Basketball shoot-out charity fundraiser on Thursday.

Staff and students also go the opportunity to take part in interactive activities in our immersive suite and book some salon treatments.

At ESC we welcomed Fight or Flight to speak with students about and encourage positive mental wellbeing.

Students were able to learn how Fight or Flight support the local community and how they can get involved. As well as let out some steam into the boxing pads.

We also hosted, a Basketball shoot-out charity fundraiser on Tuesday, Tea and Talk with CYP Haven in the Teaching Kitchen on Thursday and the Richmond Fellowship, CNWL NHS Sexual Health team and Off the Record in the Winter Garden on Friday.

Our Life Skills students at ESC also had the opportunity to take part in a relaxed outdoor session of stretching and breathing exercises in the sunshine. Students loved it and asked if they could do a session every week.

Overall, it was a successful week supporting our staff and students’ mental health and wellbeing.

For more wellbeing information, visit the John Ruskin College Wellbeing Hub.