SHINE Sunderland has awarded £111,380 to the ‘True Self’ project, aimed at creating a network of mindfulness practitioners in schools to support students struggling with emotional regulation. The initiative, led by Joanne Maw, Headteacher of Southmoor Academy, and Katy Tinman, Pathway Lead at Southmoor Academy, will train staff in six schools (three primary and three secondary) to use mindfulness techniques for helping students self-regulate. The project will focus on small groups of pupils, offering strategies like breathing exercises, sand play, and creative work to improve emotional well-being.

Over three years, ‘True Self’ aims to expand mindfulness practices across schools, with trained staff sharing techniques with colleagues, and eventually embedding mindfulness across the whole school community. The project is designed to improve student engagement, attendance, and overall academic achievement by providing tools for emotional self-regulation. Joanne and Katy are optimistic that the initiative will be embraced by Sunderland schools, with hopes for city-wide adoption. They are excited to have received SHINE funding to implement the project and make a positive impact on the community, driven by their passion for supporting local children.

You can read more about this fantastic project here.