Tag Archive for: homework diary

United Nations Day: Inspiring Global Citizens in Primary and Secondary Schools

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This year, in the week approaching Saturday 24 October, schools around the world will mark United Nations Day, which celebrates the anniversary of the United Nations Charter coming into force in 1945 and the official creation of the United Nations (UN). The day provides an opportunity for pupils to learn about global cooperation, peace, human rights and the challenges facing our world today. According to the United Nations, United Nations Day commemorates the moment when the organisation formally came into being following the ratification of the UN Charter.

For primary and secondary schools, United Nations Day is much more than a date on the calendar. It encourages pupils to think beyond their local communities and understand how countries work together to solve problems that affect people across the globe.

 

Why Was the United Nations Created?

To understand the importance of United Nations Day, it is helpful to look at the events that led to the organisation’s creation.

The United Nations was established in the aftermath of the Second World War, one of the deadliest conflicts in human history. Following years of destruction and loss of life, world leaders wanted to create an international organisation that would help prevent future wars and encourage countries to resolve disputes through discussion rather than conflict. Representatives from 50 nations met in San Francisco in 1945 to draft the UN Charter, which set out the aims and principles of the new organisation. The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945 when the Charter was ratified by the required number of signatory countries.

At its heart, the UN was created to promote peace, protect human rights, encourage international cooperation and improve living standards for people around the world. Those goals remain central to its work today.

 

Which Countries Are Part of the United Nations?

Today, the United Nations has 193 member states, making it one of the most representative international organisations in the world. Countries from every continent belong to the organisation, from the United Kingdom and France to Japan, Australia, Brazil, South Africa and India.

Membership gives countries a platform to discuss global issues, share ideas and work together on challenges that no single nation can solve alone. While member states may have different cultures, political systems and priorities, they come together through the UN to seek common solutions.

This diversity makes United Nations Day a fantastic opportunity for schools to celebrate different cultures, languages and traditions. It can help pupils appreciate both the differences and similarities between people around the world.

What Does the United Nations Do Today?

Many pupils may have heard of the United Nations but are unsure what it actually does.

The organisation works in a wide range of areas, including:

  • Promoting peace and conflict resolution
  • Supporting human rights
  • Improving access to healthcare
  • Supporting education initiatives
  • Coordinating humanitarian aid during crises
  • Encouraging sustainable development and environmental protection

The UN also plays a key role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a collection of global targets designed to tackle issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change and access to quality education. The organisation describes itself as working to promote peace, human rights and social progress while helping improve living standards worldwide.

Although the work of the United Nations may seem distant from everyday school life, many of the issues it addresses directly affect young people, making United Nations Day highly relevant for the classroom.

 

Celebrating United Nations Day in Primary Schools

For younger pupils, United Nations Day offers exciting opportunities to learn about the wider world.

Classes might explore countries from different continents, create cultural displays, learn greetings in different languages or sample traditional music from around the globe. Mapping activities can help children understand where countries are located and how connected our world has become.

Storybooks featuring children from different cultures can encourage empathy and understanding, while collaborative art projects focused on peace and friendship help reinforce the day’s key messages.

 

Celebrating United Nations Day in Secondary Schools

Older students can engage with more detailed discussions about global challenges and international cooperation.

Many schools organise debates, assemblies or model United Nations activities, where students represent different countries and discuss real-world issues. These exercises develop research, communication and critical thinking skills while helping students understand different perspectives.

Topics could include climate change, human rights, access to education, global health or sustainable development. These discussions encourage students to think critically about current events and consider how international organisations contribute to solving complex problems.

 

Building Global Awareness All Year Round

United Nations Day provides an excellent starting point for promoting global citizenship throughout the academic year. Schools can use the occasion to launch charity projects, sustainability initiatives, cultural celebrations or pupil-led campaigns that connect local action with global issues.

Student planners can support these activities by highlighting awareness days, encouraging reflection and helping pupils set personal goals linked to citizenship, sustainability and community engagement.

Don’t forget to take plenty of photos of your activities to create a page in your leavers’ yearbooks!

As schools prepare young people for life in an increasingly interconnected world, United Nations Day serves as an important reminder that cooperation, understanding and shared responsibility remain just as relevant today as they were in 1945. By exploring the history and ongoing work of the United Nations, schools can help pupils develop the knowledge, empathy and confidence needed to become informed and responsible global citizens.

 

https://www.un.org/en/observances/un-day

 

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/primary-school-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/academic-school-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/school-pocket-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/16-school-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/yearbooks/

 

 

Ada Lovelace Day: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

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Every October, schools across the UK have an opportunity to celebrate one of the most remarkable figures in the history of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM): Ada Lovelace. Often recognised as the world’s first computer programmer, Ada’s story continues to inspire young people more than 170 years after her groundbreaking work. Ada Lovelace Day is an annual international celebration that highlights the achievements of women in STEM and encourages future generations to see themselves as innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders.

For both primary and secondary schools, Ada Lovelace Day provides a valuable opportunity to inspire pupils, challenge stereotypes, and promote a love of STEM subjects.

 

Who Was Ada Lovelace?

Born in London in 1815, Ada Lovelace was an English mathematician and writer who worked closely with inventor Charles Babbage on his plans for the Analytical Engine, an early mechanical computer. Although the machine was never built during her lifetime, Ada recognised something extraordinary about its potential. While many saw it as a calculation tool, she understood that such a machine could be programmed to perform a sequence of instructions and might one day be used for far more than mathematics.

Her notes on the Analytical Engine included what is widely regarded as the first computer algorithm, leading many historians to describe her as the world’s first computer programmer.

At a time when women were rarely encouraged to pursue science or mathematics, Ada’s achievements were truly pioneering.

 

What Is Ada Lovelace Day?

Ada Lovelace Day was founded in 2009 by science writer Suw Charman-Anderson. Held annually on the second Tuesday of October, the event aims to celebrate the achievements of women in STEM and raise awareness of their contributions, both past and present.

The day is celebrated around the world through talks, workshops, classroom activities, competitions, and projects that shine a spotlight on female scientists, engineers, mathematicians, inventors, and technologists.

The goal is simple but powerful: to provide positive role models and encourage more young people, particularly girls, to consider STEM-related interests, studies, and careers.

 

Why Ada Lovelace Day Matters in Schools

Despite significant progress, some STEM industries continue to face gender imbalance. Schools play a vital role in helping break down barriers by ensuring all pupils can see themselves represented in the subjects they study.

Ada Lovelace Day provides an excellent opportunity to:

  • Introduce pupils to inspiring historical and modern STEM role models.
  • Challenge outdated stereotypes about who can succeed in science and technology.
  • Encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
  • Highlight the wide range of careers available within STEM sectors.
  • Celebrate diversity and inclusion within learning.

By showcasing Ada Lovelace’s achievements, schools can help pupils understand that innovation comes from people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

 

Bringing Ada Lovelace Day into the Classroom

The beauty of Ada Lovelace Day is that it can be adapted for every age group.

In primary schools, pupils might explore Ada’s life through storytelling, biographies, creative writing, or simple coding activities. They could research female inventors, create posters about STEM careers, or discuss how technology helps people in everyday life.

Secondary schools can take a deeper approach by examining Ada’s contribution to computing, exploring coding projects, investigating women working in STEM today, or hosting talks and assemblies focused on future career opportunities.

Cross-curricular activities can also help bring the day to life. English lessons might explore Ada’s communication of complex ideas, maths classes could investigate patterns and algorithms, while design and technology projects can encourage practical problem-solving.

 

Creating Future Role Models

Perhaps the greatest legacy of Ada Lovelace Day is its ability to help pupils imagine future possibilities.

Many students may never have considered a career in engineering, software development, data science, cyber security, artificial intelligence, or research. Learning about people like Ada Lovelace helps make these careers feel accessible and achievable.

For schools, celebrating Ada Lovelace Day is about more than recognising one historical figure. It is about encouraging ambition, curiosity, and confidence in every pupil. By highlighting the contributions of women in STEM and promoting positive role models, schools can help inspire the next generation of innovators who will shape the future.

Just as Ada Lovelace imagined possibilities that others could not yet see, today’s pupils may become tomorrow’s inventors, engineers, scientists, and technology leaders. Ada Lovelace Day is the perfect opportunity to help them take that first step.

 

findingada.com

 

Planners:

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/primary-school-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/academic-school-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/school-pocket-planners/

https://boomeranged.co.uk/portfolio/16-school-planners/

 

Black History Month in Schools: Celebrating the Past, Inspiring the Future

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Every October, schools across the UK come together to celebrate Black History Month, a valuable opportunity to recognise the achievements, contributions and histories of Black people in Britain and around the world. More than simply a date in the calendar, Black History Month encourages meaningful learning, promotes inclusion and helps pupils develop a broader understanding of the diverse society in which they live.

For educators, it provides an excellent opportunity to enrich the curriculum, spark important conversations and inspire young people through stories of resilience, innovation and achievement.

 

Why Black History Month Matters

Black History Month was first celebrated in the UK in 1987 and has since become an important fixture in the educational calendar. While history lessons have traditionally focused on a limited range of perspectives, Black History Month shines a light on the individuals, communities and events that have helped shape Britain’s past and present.

From politics and science to literature, healthcare, sport and the arts, Black people have made significant contributions to every aspect of British life. Celebrating these achievements helps pupils gain a more complete understanding of history while encouraging respect, empathy and cultural awareness.

Importantly, Black History Month is not solely about looking back. It is also about recognising the achievements of Black people today and inspiring future generations to make their own positive contributions to society.

 

Creating Meaningful Learning Opportunities

Both primary and secondary schools can use Black History Month as a springboard for engaging and age-appropriate learning.

For younger pupils, stories are often the most powerful way to introduce historical figures and role models. Learning about individuals such as Mary Seacole, Walter Tull or Floella Benjamin can help children understand themes of courage, determination and equality. Classroom activities might include storytelling, creative writing, artwork or simple research projects.

Secondary students can explore more complex topics, such as the transatlantic slave trade, Black British civil rights movements, migration and the impact of influential figures in politics, literature, science and culture. These discussions encourage critical thinking and help students understand how historical events continue to shape society today.

The beauty of Black History Month is that it can be integrated across a wide range of subjects. History, English, Art, Music, Geography, Citizenship and PSHE all offer opportunities to celebrate Black voices and experiences.

 

Moving Beyond a Single Month

While October provides a valuable focus, many educational experts encourage schools to think about Black history throughout the entire year.

Rather than treating Black History Month as a standalone event, schools can use it as a starting point for more inclusive curriculum planning. This might involve diversifying reading lists, exploring the contributions of Black scientists and inventors in STEM subjects or including a wider range of perspectives when studying historical events.

When pupils regularly encounter diverse role models and stories, they develop a richer understanding of the world around them. It also helps all students feel represented and valued within their learning environment.

 

Ideas for Schools

If you’re looking to engage pupils during Black History Month, consider incorporating some of the following activities:

  • Hold a whole-school assembly celebrating influential Black Britons.
  • Create classroom displays showcasing historical and contemporary role models.
  • Organise book corners featuring works by Black authors and illustrators.
  • Explore Black musicians, artists and scientists within subject lessons.
  • Invite members of the local community to share their experiences and achievements.
  • Encourage pupil-led projects, presentations or creative competitions.
  • Highlight key moments in Black British history through form-time activities.
  • Use tutor sessions to discuss themes such as equality, identity and belonging.

Small activities can often have a significant impact when they encourage discussion and reflection.

 

Supporting Staff Through Planning

For busy teachers and school leaders, keeping track of important awareness events throughout the academic year can be challenging. Educational planners play an important role in helping schools stay organised while ensuring significant cultural and educational celebrations remain visible.

Including events such as Black History Month in school planners provides useful prompts for lesson planning, assemblies and wider school activities. It helps ensure that important opportunities for learning and reflection are not overlooked during a busy term.

Our primary and secondary planners list Black History Month alongside other key awareness dates, making it easier for schools to plan meaningful activities and enrich the curriculum throughout the year.

 

Looking Ahead

Black History Month offers schools an opportunity to celebrate achievements, explore important historical narratives and encourage greater understanding among pupils. By engaging with diverse stories and perspectives, schools can help develop informed, respectful and empathetic citizens.

Whether through an assembly, a classroom discussion, a creative project or a whole-school initiative, every school can play a role in ensuring that Black history is recognised, celebrated and understood. Most importantly, the conversations started in October can continue throughout the year, helping to create learning environments where every pupil feels seen, valued and inspired.

 

Primary Planners

Secondary Planners

 

 

Are Paper Student Planners Still a Valuable Asset in Schools?

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In an increasingly digital world, schools have access to a wide range of technology-based tools for communication, homework management and student organisation. From online learning platforms to school apps and digital calendars, it might be tempting to assume that the traditional paper student planner has had its day. Yet across the country, thousands of primary and secondary schools continue to invest in printed planners every year.

So, are paper student planners still a valuable asset in modern education? The answer is a resounding yes.

 

Supporting Organisation and Time Management

One of the greatest challenges facing students today is managing an ever-growing number of responsibilities. Whether it’s reading homework in primary school or juggling multiple subjects and deadlines in secondary education, organisation is a key skill for academic success.

A paper planner provides students with a dedicated space to record homework, important dates, revision schedules and extracurricular commitments. Unlike digital devices, which can be full of distractions, a planner focuses students on the task at hand and helps them develop routines that encourage independence and responsibility.

These organisational habits are not only beneficial in school but also prepare young people for further education and future employment.

 

The Power of Writing Things Down

Research has long suggested that handwriting can improve information retention and understanding. When students physically write down homework tasks or reminders, they engage more actively with the information than they might when simply viewing it online.

The process of recording tasks in a planner encourages students to think about what needs to be completed and when. This small but important act can help improve accountability and reduce the likelihood of forgotten homework or missed deadlines.

In an age of instant notifications and digital reminders, the simplicity of pen and paper still holds considerable educational value.

 

Strengthening Home-School Communication

Paper planners remain one of the most effective ways to support communication between schools and families.

For primary schools, planners often include reading records, home-learning logs and spaces for messages between teachers and parents. This helps families stay informed about their child’s progress and encourages greater involvement in learning.

In secondary schools, planners allow parents to monitor homework, upcoming assessments and important school information. They also provide an easy way for tutors and teachers to communicate concerns, praise achievements or share updates.

While email and school apps are useful tools, a planner offers a tangible record that travels with the student every day.

 

Promoting Independence in Primary Schools

Developing independence is a key goal throughout primary education. Student planners help children begin taking responsibility for their own learning by encouraging them to keep track of reading, homework and important reminders.

These routines create a strong foundation for the move to secondary school, where students are expected to manage a much wider range of subjects and responsibilities. By introducing organisational skills early, planners help pupils become more confident and self-reliant learners.

 

Supporting Academic Success in Secondary Schools

As students progress through secondary education, the demands on their time increase significantly. Coursework, revision schedules, examinations and extracurricular activities all require careful planning.

Student planners can become a valuable hub for managing these commitments. Many schools use planners during tutor time to set goals, track progress and promote positive study habits. When used consistently, planners encourage students to take ownership of their learning and develop effective time-management skills.

 

Reducing Digital Distractions

Technology is an essential part of modern education, but it can also be a significant source of distraction. A student checking homework on a mobile device may quickly become sidetracked by social media, games or messages.

A paper planner offers a distraction-free alternative. There are no notifications, pop-up messages or competing demands for attention, allowing students to focus solely on organising their work and responsibilities.

For schools seeking to improve concentration and encourage positive learning habits, this remains a major advantage.

 

More Than a Diary

Today’s student planners are far more than simple homework diaries. Many schools choose customised planners that include:

  • School values and expectations
  • Safeguarding information
  • Wellbeing resources
  • Study skills guidance
  • Revision techniques
  • Goal-setting pages
  • Reflection activities
  • Attendance information
  • Reading records

By incorporating this content, planners become an integral part of a school’s wider strategy for supporting student development, wellbeing and achievement.

 

A Valuable Investment for Schools

At a time when school budgets are under pressure, every purchase must demonstrate value. Student planners continue to offer an affordable and versatile resource that supports communication, organisation, pastoral care and academic success throughout the school year.

Rather than competing with digital systems, the best planners complement them. Together, paper and technology provide students with the tools they need to thrive in a modern learning environment.

 

Final Thoughts

Despite rapid advances in educational technology, paper student planners remain an invaluable asset in both primary and secondary schools. They promote organisation, encourage independence, strengthen home-school communication and help students develop skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.

For schools looking to support student success, wellbeing and personal responsibility, the humble paper planner continues to prove its worth year after year.

 

Primary Planners

Secondary Planners

 

Plastic Free July: Inspiring Sustainable Change in Schools

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July is a key moment in the environmental calendar for schools, with Plastic Free July running throughout the month and International Plastic Bag Free Day taking place on Friday 3 July. Together, these initiatives offer a valuable opportunity for teachers to engage pupils in meaningful discussions about sustainability, climate responsibility, and everyday choices.

As educators continue to embed environmental awareness across the curriculum, these awareness days provide a practical and inspiring starting point.

 

What is Plastic Free July?

Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages people to reduce their use of single-use plastics and adopt more sustainable habits. Since its launch in 2011, it has grown into a worldwide campaign involving millions of participants, helping to significantly reduce plastic waste and change long-term behaviours.

The impact is clear: over recent years, participants have collectively avoided billions of kilograms of plastic waste, while 87% of people report making at least one lasting change after taking part.

For schools, this is particularly powerful. Plastic Free July encourages small, manageable actions—such as switching to reusable bottles or reducing packaging—that can build into lifelong habits for pupils.

 

International Plastic Bag Free Day – Friday 3 July

Running alongside Plastic Free July, International Plastic Bag Free Day focuses specifically on one of the most common sources of pollution: single-use plastic bags.

Observed every year on 3 July, the day raises awareness of the environmental damage caused by plastic bags and promotes reusable alternatives.

The statistics are striking. Globally, around 5 trillion plastic bags are used each year, yet each is typically used for only a short time before being discarded and can take hundreds of years to decompose.

For teachers, this offers a simple but impactful classroom discussion point—how everyday items can have long-lasting environmental consequences.

 

Why This Matters in Schools

Schools across the UK are already leading the way in tackling plastic waste. Environmental initiatives such as Plastic Free Schools and Plastic Clever Schools show how engaged pupils and staff can make tangible changes within their communities.

  • Over 1,000 schools in the UK have taken part in plastic reduction programmes, empowering pupils to lead change.
  • These initiatives encourage students to audit waste, campaign for change, and replace single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives.
  • Importantly, 78% of UK parents believe children should learn more about plastic pollution in school, highlighting the growing importance of environmental education.

From primary eco-committees to secondary sustainability projects, students are increasingly becoming advocates for change—developing skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and citizenship along the way.

 

Supporting Sustainable Choices with Everyday Products

While awareness and behaviour change are key, the products schools choose can also make a difference.

Boomerang Ed’s PUR bound student planners are designed with sustainability in mind, without compromising on quality or durability.

The glue used in PUR binding is difficult to replace due to its strength, affordability, and versatility. It is only applied in small amounts and is considered a ‘less-bad’ plastic for a number of reasons: it is thermosetting so, unlike EVA glue, cannot be remelted. This makes the binding more easily filtered out from paper pulp, allowing it to be safely burnt (along with other recycling waste) to produce carbon-neutral power.

By choosing environmentally responsible products, schools can reinforce the messages they are teaching—demonstrating that sustainability is not just a topic for discussion, but a practical, everyday commitment.

 

A Lasting Impact Beyond July

Plastic Free July and International Plastic Bag Free Day are not just one-off events. They are catalysts for long-term change. By encouraging pupils to rethink their habits and understand their environmental impact, schools play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future.

Whether it’s a simple swap like using reusable bags or a wider school initiative to reduce plastic use, every action counts—and, as many schools have already shown, even small changes can lead to significant results.

 

 

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/event/plastic-free-july-2026

https://plasticfreefoundation.net/

https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/international-plastic-bag-free-day/

https://thrivingsustainably.com/international-plastic-bag-free-day/

https://www.mygreenpod.com/articles/plastic-clever-schools/

 

Planners

 

Celebrating International Maths Day: making the most of Pi Day on 14 March 2026

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This year Pi Day falls on a Saturday but that’s no reason for it not to be celebrated in school, either the week before or week after!

International Maths Day—more commonly known as Pi Day—offers a brilliant opportunity for schools to celebrate the power, creativity, and everyday relevance of mathematics. For teachers and school staff, it’s the perfect moment to engage students in hands-on learning, spark problem‑solving conversations, and highlight how maths underpins so much of what they encounter both inside and outside the classroom.

 

Why Pi Day?

Pi Day falls on 14 March because the date, written numerically in the US as 3/14, reflects the first three digits of π (3.14), the famous mathematical constant, discovered in 250 BC by Archimedes, representing the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.

Whether students are just beginning to recognise shapes or tackling complex geometry, π provides a vital foundation for understanding the world in mathematical terms.

Beyond its numerical importance, Pi Day gives schools the chance to celebrate maths as a subject that encourages creativity, resilience, and curiosity—qualities that are essential not only academically but in lifelong learning.

 

Using School Planners to Explore π in the Classroom

Many students already carry a valuable maths resource with them every day—the reference pages in their school planners. These pages include essential formulas involving π, supporting learning across Key Stages.

The planner’s maths section includes clear, student‑friendly formulas for calculating:

  • Area of a Circle:
    A = πr², helping pupils explore curved shapes, scale and spatial reasoning.
  • Volume of a Cylinder:
    V = πr²h, showing how circles extend into 3D space—ideal for linking geometry to real‑world objects like cans, tubes and pipes.
  • Volume of a Cone:
    V = (1/3)πr²h, giving learners insight into how shapes change when tapering or narrowing, while strengthening formula‑substitution and problem‑solving skills.

Pi Day is a great opportunity to direct students to these planner pages, encouraging independent learning and helping them understand how mathematics is both accessible and relevant. These tools support learners in applying formulas, checking their understanding, and building confidence when working with π.

 

Creative Ways to Celebrate Pi Day in Your School

  1. Circle‑Themed Treasure Hunts
    Ask pupils to use the formulas from their planners to measure objects around the school. From circular tables to clock faces, learners can calculate circumference, area, or volume, turning the school grounds into a hands‑on geometry lab.
  2. Pi‑themed Assembly or Tutor Activities
    Share fascinating facts about π, its history, and its appearance in nature, architecture, design, and technology. Encourage students to bring examples from home or spot circular shapes in the school environment.
  3. Pi Recitation Challenge
    Invite learners to memorise and recite as many digits of π as they can—a fun, competitive activity that can energise the whole school community.
  4. Cross‑Curricular Opportunities
  • Art: Explore patterns made from circles, spirals, or rotations.
  • Design & Technology: Investigate cylinders and cones in product design.
  • Science: Connect circular motion, waves, or planetary orbits to π.
  1. Planner‑Based Worksheets
    Create quick starter tasks or extension activities directly referencing the maths formulas in the planners. This reinforces good study habits and helps students make the most of the learning tools they already have.

 

Celebrate the Beauty of Maths

International Maths Day is more than a date—it’s a celebration of problem‑solving, critical thinking, and the joy of discovery. By using the planner’s maths reference pages and engaging students in π‑focused activities, schools can turn 14 March 2026 into a time that strengthens confidence, curiosity, and connection across the curriculum.

 

Secondary Academic Planners

Primary Planners

Children’s Mental Health Week 2026

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Children’s Mental Health Week takes place this year from 9–15 February 2026, and it provides a valuable opportunity for schools across the UK to shine a light on the emotional wellbeing of their pupils. Organised annually by the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, the week aims to raise awareness and open up conversations around mental health among young people. [childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk]

 

This Year’s Theme: “This Is My Place”

The official theme for 2026, “This Is My Place”, focuses on the importance of belonging—helping children and young people feel valued, connected, and supported within their school community. Place2Be emphasises that a sense of belonging plays a vital role in children’s mental health, influencing their confidence, relationships, engagement and even academic outcomes. [childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk]

Belonging isn’t simply about fitting in: it’s about feeling safe enough to be yourself. Research in positive psychology highlights how connection, psychological safety, and supportive relationships, can act as protective factors for young people’s wellbeing, helping to buffer against stress and creating the conditions necessary for them to thrive. [worthit.org.uk]

 

Why Children’s Mental Health Week Matters in Schools

Schools sit at the heart of children’s lives, so the environments created in them truly matter. Children’s Mental Health Week encourages teachers and school leaders to consider how they can nurture inclusive, supportive spaces—both socially and emotionally. From class-based activities to whole-school discussions, the week provides rich opportunities for pupils to explore their emotions, reflect on relationships, and understand how to support their own wellbeing and that of others.

 

Using the Mental Wellbeing Pages in Our Student Planners

As part of Children’s Mental Health Week, the Mental Wellbeing pages included in our student planners can be an incredibly helpful tool. These sections are designed to support pupils if they are suffering from anxiety or low mood, or are worried about their eating or self-harm, both giving tips on how to self-help and suggesting when it’s time to ask for more support.

Teachers can use these pages during tutor time, PSHE lessons, or as reflection prompts throughout the week. Encouraging students to engage with the content helps them build practical skills they can continue using long after Mental Health Week has ended.

A Week That Lasts All Year

Children’s Mental Health Week serves as a reminder that wellbeing isn’t a one‑off topic: it’s an ongoing commitment.

Here are some simple ways pupils’ mental health can be supported in their classrooms every day:

  • Belonging Boards: younger pupils can contribute drawings, photos, or words that represent what belonging means to them.
  • Quiet Zones: a calm space where students can take a moment to reset—research shows these wellbeing-friendly environments can support psychological safety. [worthit.org.uk]
  • Student Voice Sessions: short group discussions where pupils can share what helps them feel included and supported at school.
  • Kindness Challenges: small acts of kindness which are shown to boost mood and reduce stress, can be encouraged and praised. [schoolofkindness.org]

 

By using resources available and embedding tools like the Mental Wellbeing planner pages into regular practice, you’ll help create a school culture where every child feels safe enough to be themselves.

 

Secondary Planners

Primary Planners

 

Blue Monday and the Winter Blues: Supporting Wellbeing in Your School Community

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Every January, the term “Blue Monday” circulates widely—often referred to as the “most depressing day of the year.” While the science behind Blue Monday is widely disputed, what is real is that many students and staff feel the impact of shorter days, colder weather, and the long stretch between winter and spring. For school communities already working hard to maintain motivation and connection after the Christmas break, this period can bring an added layer of challenge.

Rather than viewing Blue Monday as a single date, it can be more helpful to think about the winter blues as a seasonal dip in energy, mood, or engagement. Secondary schools are busy and demanding environments, and feeling a little flat at this time of year is both natural and common. Recognising the signs early—and putting supportive practices in place—can make a significant difference to the mental wellbeing of your staff and students.

 

Why Winter Affects Mood

During the winter months, reduced exposure to daylight can disrupt sleep cycles and lower serotonin levels—both of which play an important role in regulating mood and maintaining focus. Students may find it harder to get up in the morning, stay motivated, or feel enthusiastic about learning. Staff may experience their own dips in energy, making the school day feel heavier than usual.

These changes don’t necessarily indicate a serious mental health concern, but they do highlight the importance of nurturing wellbeing through small, consistent actions.

 

Creating a Supportive Environment in School

Schools already do so much to promote connection, routine, and a sense of belonging—key protective factors against low mood. During winter, even small adjustments can make a noticeable impact:

  • Encourage movement: whether it’s brief times to simply stretch, outdoor time when possible, or active learning tasks, movement boosts energy and improves concentration.
  • Create opportunities for connection: group tasks, peer support circles, and regular one-to-one check-ins help students feel seen and supported.
  • Promote good habits: hydration, balanced eating, and regular sleep patterns can easily slip during winter. Gentle reminders can make a big difference.
  • Normalise conversations about mood and stress: when students understand that feeling low sometimes is normal and not something to hide, they’re more likely to seek support early.

 

Using Our Planners to Support Student Wellbeing

Our Mental Wellbeing pages, included as standard in our Academic and Pocket student planners, include Top Tips on how to manage low mood and other worries, not just on Blue Monday but whenever students feel they need support during the year.

These pages include common worries such as:

  • Feeling anxious
  • Low Mood
  • Eating
  • Self-harm

As well as tips on self-help, all the pages include links for further help and advice too.

 

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Although winter can feel long, it’s also a season of reset. By acknowledging the winter blues and nurturing wellbeing across your school community, you help students develop healthy habits they can carry into spring and the rest of the year.

 

 

Academic Planners

Academic 16+ Planners

Pocket Planners

Pocket Planners 16+

 

Supporting Teen Mental Health During the Festive Season

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The Christmas period is often portrayed as a time of joy, family, and celebration. For many teenagers though, the festive season can bring unique challenges that impact their mental health. As teachers, understanding these pressures is key to supporting students during what can be an emotionally complex time.

 

Why Christmas Can Be Stressful for Teens

While younger children may see Christmas as magical, teenagers often experience heightened stress. Academic pressures, social expectations and family dynamics can all contribute to feelings of anxiety or low mood. For some, financial strain at home or complicated family relationships means the season is far from cheerful. Others may feel isolated if they don’t share the same traditions or if they are coping with loss.

Social media adds another layer of pressure. Teens are bombarded with images of ‘perfect’ celebrations, which can lead to comparison and feelings of inadequacy. This can intensify existing mental health challenges, such as anxiety or low self-esteem.

 

Common Mental Health Challenges at Christmas

  • Anxiety: the disruption of routine during the holidays can be unsettling. Teens who thrive on structure may feel anxious about changes in schedules, social gatherings, or expectations.
  • Low Mood: shorter days and less daylight can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), while loneliness or family tensions can deepen feelings of sadness.
  • Eating Concerns: festive meals and treats can trigger stress for those struggling with body image or eating disorders. Comments about food or appearance, even well-meaning ones, can be harmful.
  • Managing Mental Health: with school closed, access to regular support networks may be limited. Teens might feel unsure where to turn if they’re struggling.

How Teachers Can Help Before the Holidays

  1. Start Conversations Early: create space for open discussions about mental health in the classroom. Normalising these conversations helps students feel less alone.
  2. Signpost Resources: remind students about the mental well-being pages in their planners. These pages are designed to empower them with practical strategies they can use during the break.
  3. Encourage Routine: suggest that students maintain some structure during the holidays—whether through exercise, hobbies, or regular sleep patterns.
  4. Promote Kindness: encourage students to focus on meaningful connections rather than material expectations. Acts of kindness can boost mood and reduce stress.

 

A Positive Message for the Season

Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. By acknowledging the challenges and equipping teens with tools to manage their mental wellbeing, we can help them navigate the season with confidence and self-compassion.

As teachers, your role in supporting mental health is invaluable. A simple reminder to check their planner’s well-being pages or downloading an app before school breaks up, could make a big difference for a student who feels overwhelmed when they are alone.

As well as general information about managing mental health, the Mental Wellbeing pages included in Boomerang’s student planners cover worries about anxiety, low mood, eating, and self-harm. Each section gives warning signs to look out for, top tips which may help, and a web address for further advice.

 

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Academic Planners

Teacher Planners

 

Why Paper Teacher Planners Still Shine in a Digital World

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In today’s tech-driven classrooms, digital tools dominate lesson planning and scheduling. Yet, many educators still swear by the traditional paper planner—and for good reason. While apps and online calendars offer convenience, paper planners provide unique advantages that can’t be replicated on a screen.

 

  1. Tangible and Visual

There is something powerful about physically writing down your plans. Studies show that handwriting improves memory retention, helping teachers remember tasks and deadlines more effectively. A paper planner offers a clear, at-a-glance view of your week without the distractions of notifications or pop-ups.

 

  1. No Tech Hassles

Digital tools rely on batteries and Wi-Fi, and devices can fail at the worst times. A paper planner is always ready—no loading screens, no app crashes, and no need to worry about syncing across platforms. It’s dependable and stress-free.

 

  1. Encourages Mindful Planning

Writing by hand slows you down just enough to think through your day. This mindful approach helps teachers to prioritise tasks and reflect on what’s most important. Plus, they allow the creative freedom to doodle, colour-code, and personalise pages to make planning feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable routine.

 

  1. Reduces Screen Fatigue

Teachers spend hours in front of screens for grading, emails, and virtual lessons. A paper planner offers a refreshing break from digital overload. It’s a tactile experience that helps reduce eye strain and mental fatigue.

 

  1. Personalisation and Creativity

Unlike rigid digital templates, paper planners allow full customisation. Add sticky notes, highlight key dates, or decorate with washi tape—your planner becomes uniquely yours. This creative outlet can boost motivation and make organisation fun.

  1. Privacy and Security

No passwords, no data breaches—just your plans on paper. For teachers who value confidentiality, a physical planner offers peace of mind.

 

In short: A paper teacher planner isn’t just a nostalgic choice—it’s a practical, reliable and creative tool that supports focus and flexibility in a busy teaching environment.

 

Teacher Planners