London schools trialling VR to relieve pupils’ stress
Summary
Schools in the London borough of Sutton are using virtual reality (VR) headsets to help students reduce stress and anxiety, especially related to exams and mental health issues. The VR program, developed by Phase Space, offers short sessions that help pupils calm down and regain focus, showing positive effects on attendance and behavior.Key Facts
- All 15 secondary schools in Sutton are using Phase Space VR headsets in a pilot program with the local NHS mental health trust.
- The VR sessions last about seven minutes and students use them when feeling anxious or stressed.
- The program helps with issues like exam stress, ADHD, and emotional difficulties from home life.
- 90% of students in the first 10 schools experienced immediate stress relief after using the VR.
- Schools reported fewer disruptions in class, as students can use VR instead of leaving lessons unsupervised.
- The program is supported by local child and adolescent mental health services (Camhs) to help with overloaded mental health resources.
- Students said VR helped them feel calmer, more confident, and better able to focus and follow instructions.
- Experts see this digital approach as a promising, low-cost way to improve children’s mental health in schools.
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