Pathways to Flourish: A Vision for Wellbeing in Schools

By Binu Thomas

In recent years, the importance of mental health in schools has become increasingly clear. Schools are no longer just academic spaces—they play a pivotal role in shaping the emotional, social, and mental development of students. The upcoming Pathways to Flourish Conference emerged as a response to this, recognising that fostering wellbeing in schools is essential to creating thriving communities and ultimately shaping the future of individuals, societies, and even nations.

Event: International Wellbeing Conference for Schools

Date: September 27-28, 2024

Location: Woodstock School, Mussoorie

The two-day conference will see 145 delegates from 73 schools across 17 Indian states take part, alongside delegates from a school in Nepal, bringing together and estimated 220 participants.

In my role as a mental health professional, I have witnessed firsthand how increasing academic pressures, the influence of social media, and the uncertainties of our global landscape have led to a marked rise in anxiety, depression, and emotional distress among students. These challenges cannot be ignored, and schools are often on the frontlines of addressing them. This recognition sparked the need for a space where educators, counsellors, and school leaders could come together, share insights, and create actionable strategies to address the wellbeing of school communities. 

The keynote speaker is education consultant, David Bott, who has worked in the field of well-being education for more than 15 years now, with educators across 1,000 schools globally. “My expertise lies in translating cutting-edge science into practical applications for students, educators, and school communities. I look forward to sharing strategies and stories of both success and challenge to inspire delegates and fast track their work in this field,” says Bott, who will be visiting India for the very first time.

The conference will go beyond just discussions about mental health— we aim to provide concrete tools and strategies that can be implemented in school settings, as we want to equip teachers, counsellors and school leaders with the skills and resources they need to foster a culture of wellbeing. 

Mental health and wellbeing must be at the core of education if we are to help students thrive. The mental health challenges faced by students today are not just an academic issue—they affect their overall ability to succeed in life. Research consistently shows that students with good mental health are more likely to excel academically, form meaningful relationships, and become engaged, proactive members of society.

By focusing on wellbeing, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of students but also shaping future generations who are emotionally intelligent, resilient, and socially responsible. The ripple effect of placing mental health at the center of education is profound—it impacts individuals, school communities, and society as a whole.

Alongside the educational focus, the conference also embraces Woodstock School’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. Local vendors, including a shoemaker, an HIV palliative care unit, and an autism support unit, will exhibit their products, directly benefiting from sales. To ensure inclusivity, Woodstock is offering free registration and accommodations for deserving participants, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent access to this valuable event.

In support of community impact, conference attendees will receive handcrafted bags made by women from Uttarakhand’s interior villages, supporting their livelihoods. Additionally, Woodstock remains committed to environmental sustainability, with most printed materials made from recycled paper and pens crafted from dried coconut leaves to minimize the event’s environmental footprint.

For updates on the conference, including our social media coverage supported by Bollywood director-singer duo Vishal and Rekha Bharadwaj, you can Watch Here.

Binu Thomas is the Head of Personal Counselling and co-chair Student Protection Panel at Woodstock School, Mussoorie. She has nearly two decades of experience, and hold Master’s degrees in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health, in addition to a Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Family Therapy. She recently completed a PhD in strength-based approaches in Counselling Psychology. Binu’s career includes significant tenure at CAMH, Canada’s largest mental health teaching and research hospital.