The Breathwork Project provides students with access to a qualified SOMA Breath Advanced Instructor, offering skills in breathwork for self-regulation during stressful situations. Regular breathwork practices have been shown to optimise physical, mental, and emotional well program brings these life-changing techniques directly into school environments. Sessions are offered both face-to-face and remotely, and school staff are trained in the basics of the programme, enabling effective referrals and ensuring a consistent approach. Parents and carers are also invited to participate, gaining insights to support both their children's well-being and their own.

Since its launch two years ago, this initiative has demonstrated significant impact, as highlighted in a recent report:

• Calm and focus: Helping students achieve a centered, clear state of mind.
• Resilience: Equipping students to better handle stress.
• Mood management: Supporting students in regulating emotions.
• Reduced anxiety: Alleviating symptoms of worry and unease.
• Enhanced sleep quality: Promoting restful and restorative sleep.
• Anger management: Empowering students to respond calmly to challenging situations.

Trained staff members have reported an improved understanding of their own nervous systems and have developed skills in self-regulation, which, in turn, helps them better support students. The impact extends beyond individual outcomes, with 52% of participating students experiencing improvements in behavior or attendance, and 82% reporting that the techniques have helped them feel calmer, less anxious, and, in some cases, sleep better.

While many schools have begun introducing basic breathing techniques, this project goes further by offering students a six-week programme, either one-on-one or in small groups. Participants develop a deeper understanding of their nervous system and build a personalised toolkit of strategies for use both inside and outside of school. By extending this knowledge to staff and families, we’re fostering a community-wide approach that ensures these skills become a lifelong asset for our young people.

ThanksOp Community Fund, Richmond School & Sixth Form will receive an initial grant of £500 in Spring 2025, with a second installment planned for Autumn 2025. The amount of this second payment will be determined by the support of Co-Op Members. We encourage Co-Op Members to vote for this initiative, enabling us to continue supporting young people in building these essential self-regulation skills.

Not yet a Co-Op Member? For just £1, you can join, vote for this project, and access other benefits. Let’s work together to empower the next generation with tools for lifelong well-being.