In a health promoting school it is very important that you have the opportunity to have your say about things that matter to you. Circle time is a way to take part in the day-to-day running of the school and play an active part in school life. If you feel good about yourself and positive about your role in the school, this will help you to do well and to be the best you can be.
What happens?
During circle time:
- children and teachers or other school staff sit comfortably in a circle
- everyone can see everyone else
- a 'talking object' is passed round the circle - it can be anything from a shell to a teddy bear
- only the person with the 'talking object' is allowed to speak
- you can say 'Pass!' if you do not want to speak
- you can only say positive things - no put-downs are allowed
- everyone is encouraged to join in
- problems and concerns can be talked about openly and answers found by the whole group
- it is about helping each other not blaming each other
- the group members can congratulate themselves on achievements
- the group members have to be clear, direct and honest with each other
- you can have great fun!
What good things will come from it?
Taking part in circle time will help you to:
- share thoughts and feelings in a place where you feel safe
- feel you belong in a group you can trust
- have more confidence and feel good about yourself
- get things off your mind and say what your worries are
- talk about things that are important to you - good or bad
- learn to listen and take turns
- respect what other people have to say
- build friendships and relationships
- learn to talk about your feelings calmly
- work together to solve problems and learn from your mistakes
- know that you do not need to be angry to solve problems
- give positive messages to others and share praise
- hear good news about yourself
- thank others for helping and supporting you
- help others to feel good about themselves
- co-operate with others and accept each other's differences
- make a difference to the behaviour and learning in your school
- celebrate success and achieve your goals.
