5 Ways to Wellbeing

Supporting children and young people to build positive mental health

Simple, evidence-based actions to help children and young people feel better, build resilience, and thrive in school and beyond.

At The Zone Plymouth, we work alongside schools and partners to support emotional health and wellbeing across whole school communities. Our 5 Ways to Wellbeing resource has been co-developed with the Mental Health Support Team (MHST), Active Devon and Plymouth City Council to provide practical, engaging tools for use in schools.

To find out more about our work within schools, training opportunities or workshops please take a look at our school’s offer below or contact us.

To download the full pack for your setting:

What are the 5 Ways to Wellbeing?

The 5 Ways to Wellbeing are five simple actions that promote positive mental health and emotional resilience. They can be embedded into everyday school life to support pupils, staff and wider communities.

Together, these actions help create healthier, more connected school environments.

  • Build relationships with friends, family and the community.

  • Support others through kindness, volunteering or small acts.

  • Try new things and develop skills and confidence.

  • Be mindful of the present moment and the world around you.

  • Take part in physical activity to boost mood and energy.

Why it matters in schools

‍Supporting emotional wellbeing in schools is essential for helping young people reach their full potential. Research and local experience shows that when wellbeing is prioritised:

  • ‍Pupils are more engaged in learning

  • Relationships improve across the school community

  • Staff confidence in supporting mental health increases

  • Early intervention reduces the need for specialist support

‍This aligns with the whole-school approach delivered through programmes like Progeny, which strengthens schools’ ability to respond to emotional needs and build supportive environments.

Resource Packs

Our downloadable resource packs provide flexible, ready-to-use materials to support delivery across different age groups and settings.

How to use these resources:

The materials are designed to be flexible and adaptable:

  • Deliver as full lessons or short activities

  • Embed across the curriculum

  • Share with families to extend learning beyond school

Primary - Year 6

Available Resources:

  • Use in assemblies, tutor time or PSHE

  • Support whole-school wellbeing strategies

Secondary

Available Resources:

Share about the 5 ways to wellbeing in your setting:

Plan your activities

Physical activity is a key part of wellbeing. Explore a wide range of local opportunities to help children and young people Be Active along with options to meet the other 4 ways.

Useful Resources:

To find out more about any of our 5 ways resources please contact us.

Developed in partnership with…

Together, we are committed to supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people across Plymouth.