Schools in the London borough of Sutton are pioneering the use of virtual reality (VR) headsets to help pupils manage exam stress, ADHD, and personal challenges. The Phase Space VR programme, co-created by former BBC VR head Zillah Watson, is now being used in all 15 secondary schools across the borough.
How the VR Programme Works
The seven-minute programme is designed to help students calm down, regain confidence, and prepare for learning. According to reports, 90 per cent of users experience an immediate drop in stress levels after using the VR headsets. Schools such as Ark Academy have integrated the VR sets into their support for students with social, emotional, or mental health issues, noting improvements in calmness and reductions in lesson disruptions.
Potential Benefits for Student Well-being
The initiative is seen as a potentially low-cost and effective method for supporting student mental well-being. It could complement existing adolescent mental health services, offering a quick and accessible tool for stress management. The VR programme provides immersive environments that help students focus and relax, making it a valuable resource during exam periods.
With the increasing recognition of mental health challenges among young people, such innovative approaches are gaining traction. The success of the Phase Space VR programme in Sutton may inspire other schools across the UK to adopt similar technologies to support their students' emotional and psychological needs.
