1. Provide opportunities for self-directed learning

When students are given the opportunity to take ownership of their learning, they’re more likely to be motivated to work hard. This is because they’re working towards goals that they have set and that means something to them. In PE, self-directed learning can involve them choosing a particular type of sport or exercise to master, or defining their own targets in specific activities.

If it isn’t possible to let students pick a sport or exercise with each class – and it often isn’t – you could instead give students some control over your planned lessons. You could take requests on the types of exercise students want to do and try a new one each lesson. Students are more likely to be motivated when they can look forward to the activities they’ve selected. Online exercise classes, which became particularly popular during the coronavirus lockdowns, are still a great way to give activities like yoga or dance aerobics a try. If you’re new or inexperienced in the activities, you can lead by example and show reluctant students that it’s fun to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.

2. Have high yet attainable expectations

Studies show that when we expect good things out of students, they’re more likely to achieve them. When our expectations are high for a student, we tend to give them more of our time, more detailed and supportive feedback, and more approval. This leads them to actually achieve highly because they’ve received plenty of support and also because they’ve had their confidence boosted along the way.

It’s vital that kids who aren’t naturally athletic are treated with high expectations. If not, they’ll believe themselves likely to fail or perform poorly and they may not be motivated to work hard. Make sure to give every student adequate time and support, and to voice your approval. Keep in mind, however, that some students are more experienced or naturally talented at sports than others. When setting goals for students, tailor them for each individual and make it clear that you think they’re within reach.

3. Choose less motivated students as team captains

It may seem counterintuitive to choose the least motivated students as captains when dividing the class into teams since a good captain motivates her team. However, it’s common for the most athletically gifted students to be made captains because they have plenty of passion and enthusiasm. This can lead to less enthusiastic students feeling overlooked, particularly if they’re often picked last if you let captains choose their teammates.

By giving the role of captain to those who aren’t keen on PE, you instil a new sense of ownership in the activity. The responsibility of leadership can boost their self-esteem and encourage them to really try their best. Plus, they’re more likely to develop a sense of team pride which can boost their social connections and help them have fun with sports.

Much of keeping students motivated revolves around giving them greater autonomy over activities. Try the tactics above and see what impact they have on your PE students.

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This is where teachers have an opportunity to step in. Teachers are in a unique position to support the mental health of their students. They see their students every day, so they get to know them very well. This means they can pick up on early signs that something might be wrong. They can also build positive relationships with their students, which can help to notice when things are wrong or prevent problems from developing in the first place.

Of course, teachers can’t do everything on their own and it can feel like a lot of pressure. They need help from school staff, parents, caregivers, and external agencies. But they play a vital role in championing the mental health of young people in schools. So how can teachers promote mental health care within a school?

1. Start the conversation around mental health

First things first, it’s important to spread awareness about mental health in your school community. This can be done through presentations, bulletin boards, or even just casual conversations with students and other teachers. By starting the conversation, you can help create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

You could also hold events or campaigns to raise awareness about mental health and how to get help. Or try to connect students with local mental health professionals or support groups.

As an additional step, talk to your school administration about the importance of mental health care and be an advocate for more funding and resources for mental health services.

2. Promote positive mental health habits, such as self-care, mindfulness and exercise

As a teacher, you have the opportunity to promote positive mental health habits in your students. By modelling self-care, mindfulness and exercise, you can help your students develop healthy coping mechanisms that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Self-care is all about taking the time to nurture yourself, both physically and emotionally. Taking a break when you feel overwhelmed, even for just a few minutes, can make a world of difference. When you model self-care for your students, you show them that it’s okay to put their own needs first sometimes.

Mindfulness is another important mental health habit. It involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgement. This can be tricky for kids (and adults) who are used to living in their heads. But with practice, mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety. It’s also been shown to improve focus and concentration.

Exercise is another great way to promote positive mental health. It releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. And it gives us a chance to get out of our heads and into our bodies. Even just a few minutes of movement can make a big difference in how we feel.

3. Don’t forget about yourself

Teachers have one of the most important jobs in society. They help to shape the minds of young people and prepare them for the future. However, teaching can be a very stressful profession. Working long hours, dealing with challenging behavior and working away at a screen into the evenings – it can take its toll on even the most resilient individual.

That’s why it’s so important for teachers to prioritize their own mental health at work. By taking breaks when they need to, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and seeking help if they’re struggling, teachers can help to ensure that they’re happy and healthy in their jobs. In turn, this will enable them to provide the best possible education for their students.

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