Supporting Student Wellbeing and the Importance of Sleep

At the Alice Smith School, student wellbeing is not just a priority, it's the foundation for a thriving learning environment. We take a data-driven approach, constantly monitoring mental and emotional health trends to identify areas for improvement. While we're happy to report positive data on student happiness, safety, and teacher support, one key area emerged that demands our attention: sleep habits and energy levels.

Strengths to Celebrate

Our students report strong social bonds and a sense of belonging fostered by positive friendships. They feel safe and supported within the school environment, with teachers playing a crucial role in motivation and academic success. This strong foundation contributes significantly to overall student wellbeing.

Addressing the Sleep Challenge

• Establishing a Regular Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at consistent times, even on weekends and holidays, helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
• Creating a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Winding down before bed with calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness can signal to your body that it's time to sleep.
• Optimising the Sleep Environment: Ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool promotes deeper, more restful sleep.
• Limiting Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt sleep patterns. Power down electronics at least an hour before bedtime.

Supporting Good Sleep Habits at Home

We understand that fostering student wellbeing is a collaborative effort. Parents and guardians play a vital role in ensuring students prioritise adequate sleep. We encourage you to explore the following resources, packed with valuable insights and guidance:

• National Sleep Foundation - Sleep Health for Teens
• American Academy of Sleep Medicine - Healthy Sleep Habits for Students

Get in touch

If you have any questions or suggestions regarding student sleep health, please don't hesitate to contact our pastoral team. We value your active participation and believe that together, we can ensure students not only feel supported but have the energy and focus to achieve their academic goals. Remember, a well-rested student is a thriving student!

Hints and Tips for Better Sleep

To improve sleep quality at home, here are some valuable tips gathered from various sources:

1. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
2. Create a Relaxing Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature.
3. Establish a Bedtime Routine: Wind down before bed with relaxing activities like reading, listening to music, or taking a warm bath.
4. Limit Stimulants Before Bed: Avoid caffeine and large meals close to bedtime.
5. Get Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity during the day to help you fall asleep more easily at night.
6. Avoid Screen Time Before Bed: Limit screen-based device usage at least an hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
7. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Try breathing exercises or mindfulness to relax before sleep.
8. Maintain a Comfortable Room Temperature: Keep your bedroom at a cool temperature for better sleep quality.

By incorporating these tips into their routine, students can enhance their sleep quality, leading to improved overall wellbeing and academic performance.