Lesson support for teachers
Encouraging a classroom environment in which sensitive issues such as mental health can be discussed comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest aims of the BrainWaves lessons is to get teachers and students discussing mental health issues. However, even the most prepared teacher with the best materials can encounter issues with engagement. That is why we have prepared a series of resources to help you prepare for success.
Tips on teaching mental health
Read a selection of our expert blogs to support your teaching of the BrainWaves lessons.
Positive psychology and student wellbeing
Read our top 5 insights into how positive psychology can be used to improve student mental health.
Five key questions on teenagers and sleep
Get sleep tips from world-leading expert, Professor Russell Foster, from the University of Oxford.
Encouraging student discussion
Find out how student talk can be used within the BrainWaves lessons to enhance learning.
Effective teacher questioning
Instil a sense of wonder and participation in your students by using effective questions.
Differentiating the BrainWaves lessons
Ensure every student can access the BrainWaves learning at the appropriate level for them.
Using the ‘no hands up’ technique
Encourage maximum student participation in sensitive discussions using this technique.
Grouping for effective discussion
Get the most out of student discussion and group work in your classroom.
What the research says
Find out about the scientific evidence behind the wellbeing strategies suggested in our lessons.
Active listening
Active listening involves paying close attention to what someone is saying and demonstrating verbally and non-verbally.
Behavioural activation
Behavioural activation is a well-researched strategy for boosting mood, and can even treat depression.
Getting natural light
Natural light is an environmental cue that influences your body’s natural 24-hour clock (or circadian rhythm).
PMR
Progressive muscle relaxation is a widely-used technique which has been shown to reduce anxiety and tension.
Free resources
Download and use these resources to help you prepare for and deliver BrainWaves lessons.
Understanding the teenage brain
Use this PowerPoint presentation, kindly provided by Dr John Coleman, to learn about the changes that happen to the teenage brain and how you can support them.
10 facts about teenage sleep
A selection of evidence-based research behind adolescent sleep to help inform and inspire your teaching of this important topic.
Frequently asked questions
Please check out these FAQs for any queries you might have on the BrainWaves lessons.
Is there a charge to use the BrainWaves lessons?
No. The lessons and supporting materials are provided completely free of charge by the BrainWaves project.
How many BrainWaves lessons are there?
From September 2023, there will be a total of 18 BrainWaves lessons to use in secondary schools (6 per year group):
- Year 12 (16-17 years) – Available from May 2023
- Year 10 (14-15 years) – Available from September 2023
- Year 8 (12-13 years) – Available from September 2023
Do I have to teach all the lessons in order?
Not at all. The lessons are most beneficial as a programme and make most sense when you run them in order. However, if you have taught various topics before, or wish to focus on certain topics, you can just run them as standalone lessons.
How long do BrainWaves lessons run for?
The BrainWaves lessons are structured flexibly so you can either deliver them during a 40-60 minute lesson (i.e. PSHE or Personal Development), or during two shorter form sessions (20-30 minutes) across one week. You can also extend the materials as needed into longer lessons or assemblies.
Can I teach the BrainWaves lessons to different age groups than those recommended?
Yes – within reason! The lessons have been specifically trialled with students of those age groups – but you may find that your students would benefit from using lessons from a higher or lower age range. Please consider the materials carefully before making your decision.
How were the BrainWaves lessons developed?
The lessons were developed by combining the expert knowledge of leading academics at the University of Oxford and beyond, with the practical perspectives of PSHE teachers and lesson writers. All lessons were trialled with a range of secondary schools and sixth forms, and reviewed by our Teacher Advisory Group. Acknowledgements to all those involved in the lesson development can be found at the end of each lesson plan.
Can I give feedback on the BrainWaves lessons?
Yes please! We would love to know what you think, as well as suggestions for improvement. Please email your feedback to tracey.riseborough@brainwaveshub.org. Thank you!