Yoga and meditation to tackle exam stress

Avanti House Secondary School, a state Hindu secondary school in Stanmore, London, UK, champions a unique values-based educational model in response to the significant pressures and challenges associated with the traditional educational environment, particularly the intense stress induced by exam preparations. Consequently, the school seeks to enhance students' wellbeing by integrating spiritual, mental, and physical health into daily learning. This holistic approach, rooted in the school's “Avanti Way”, fosters not only high academic standards but also promotes deep personal growth and communal responsibility among its 1,190 students.

Established in 2012, the school incorporates traditional subjects alongside ethics, philosophy, yoga, and meditation, reflecting its dedication to developing well-rounded individuals. These elements are strategically embedded within the curriculum rather than as extracurricular activities, ensuring all students participate in nurturing their wellbeing.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the school's holistic approach. Avanti House provides a robust vegetarian meal programme that aligns with its ethical and health-oriented values, helping students understand the importance of diet in overall wellbeing. This initiative supports physical health and fosters environmental awareness and sustainability among students.

The school's impressive results, including a Progress 8 score that consistently ranks it among the top UK schools, underscore the effectiveness of its educational philosophy. Notably, the school boasts a 97.6% attendance rate, which far exceeds the national average, supporting the effectiveness of its wellbeing initiatives.

Leadership at Avanti House is pivotal in cultivating an environment that values spiritual insight and character formation as much as educational excellence. The principal and deputy principal, both seasoned in educational leadership, drive the school's vision with a clear focus on inclusive practices and community engagement. Its leadership fosters a culture of respect and mutual understanding, crucial for the school's diverse student body.

Avanti House's commitment extends beyond the classroom. It actively engages families and the wider community through workshops and initiatives like family wellbeing sessions and leadership training for teachers, reinforcing its holistic approach to education.

Should Avanti House win the World's Best School Prize for Supporting Healthy Lives, the prize money will be directed towards enhancing these transformative programmes, reinforcing the school's commitment to developing well-rounded, mindful citizens for a sustainable future.