Forest launches first ever Sleep Week

Forest is pleased to announce its first ever Sleep Week, taking place Monday 20 to Friday 24 March.

During the week, pupils and staff will learn more about the benefits of sleep and its influence on our wellbeing and mental health.

Recently there has been increasing reports in the media about children’s mental health, and at Forest we believe its important to try and address those issues in school.

In 2017, we know more and more pupils are working later into the night, sending emails and posting on social media when should be sleeping, meaning many are finding it hard to switch off and get a good night’s sleep. Research has shown being well-rested means pupils’ resilience will increase and they will be better prepared to face the difficulties of modern life and the challenges of growing into responsible adults.

During the week, there will be a number of events to raise awareness of the benefits of sleep and to encourage pupils to sleep more.

To kick off the week, pupils in years 11-13 will have ‘sleep sessions’ in their lessons. These will look at the importance of exercise for good sleep, planning for sleep and the benefits of sleep to mental health.

A highlight of the week will be on Wednesday 22 March, when Forest pupils and staff will be taking part in a ‘Fone Fast’. This will see individuals given the opportunity to attempt to go for 24 hours (or 12) without their mobile phones.

It’s hoped the Fone Fast will encourage pupils to relax in the evening and achieve uninterrupted sleep leading to feeling refreshed the next day.

Ahead of Forest’s first Sleep Week, Tommy, Y8, spoke to Deputy Head Pastoral, Mr Jeff Kayne about why the School was launching the initiative.