The programme ran for 13 weeks, meeting each week to create a consistent and supportive environment for learning and reflection.
Each week, a new Decider skill was introduced, focusing on helping children recognise the connection between their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Through practical activities and discussion, children were supported to develop strategies to monitor and manage their emotions more effectively, enabling children to better understand their own mental health and wellbeing. Over the course of the group, participants were encouraged to practise these skills both within their everyday life. The group began with nine children, with six completing the full 13-week programme.
The group gave us some excellent feedback at the end of the course and we’re really looking forward to delivering more Decider Skills in 2026.
“The group is really helpful. Usually, I feel bored at school but have been excited on a Tuesday to see you. The coping strategies I have benefitted from the most have been Breath and Drift.”
“I’m happier than I was before, everything feels better. I feel more confident.”
“I would do the group again. It was cringe at first but now it is normal to talk about feelings.”
“Don’t change anything! I loved doing the fizz experiment and have found strategies that have helped.”
All the pupils said they think the group should be run for other children and they felt it would be beneficial for high school children as well. They did let us know though that we should bring more brownies to future groups!