ELAN Pupils Build Resilience and Wellbeing Skills with YouthShoots
By Schools Correspondent
Pupils across the Extend Learning Academies Network (ELAN) in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, have been spending time thinking about something big: who they are now, and who they want to become.
Through a three-day Resilience Reps programme led by YouthShoots founder Paul Hanmore, Year 4 and 5 pupils took part in open, age-appropriate conversations about mental wellbeing, online life and the choices they make every day.
The sessions weren’t about lectures — they focused on discussion, reflection and giving pupils space to explore real-life situations together.
Across the programme, pupils looked at everything from managing emotions and building healthy relationships to understanding online pressures and developing self-care habits.
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A big focus was on the idea of their “future selves” — encouraging them to think ahead and recognise the small steps that shape who they become.
Staff noticed how seriously pupils engaged with the sessions, even when tackling more complex topics.
“It was a pleasure to visit the training and see the impact being made first hand. Paul’s enthusiasm and energy are inspiring, and the children responded incredibly well to the sessions. Programmes like this are vital in supporting our pupils’ emotional wellbeing and helping them understand their role in shaping a positive future.”
The training reflects ELAN’s wider focus on working together, embracing individuality and doing the right thing.
It also gives pupils the tools to support each other, not just themselves — helping to build a culture of wellbeing across their schools.
A full impact report on the programme is due to be shared soon. For now, staff say the difference is already visible in pupils’ confidence, conversations and willingness to look out for one another.
