Secondary schools in London are using virtual reality (VR) headsets to help pupils manage stress caused by exams, ADHD, or difficult home lives. The pilot programme, run by tech firm Phase Space in partnership with a local NHS mental health trust, involves all 15 secondary schools in the London borough of Sutton.
Pupils access a seven-minute VR programme either in prearranged slots or when they need to leave a lesson due to anxiety. The immersive experience helps them calm down, rebuild confidence, and return to their studies. Zillah Watson, a co-creator and former BBC VR head, said the programme is designed for 'overwhelmed and anxious students'.
Aelisha Needham, vice-principal at Ark Academy in north London, said the school uses the headsets mainly with pupils who have social, emotional or mental health issues. 'Students are a lot calmer. We're seeing a reduction in relocations from lessons,' she noted. Pupils ask to use the programme when feeling overwhelmed, helping them 'ground themselves'.
Watson reported that nine out of ten pupils in the first ten schools saw an immediate drop in stress, with improvements in attendance and behaviour. Sixteen-year-old Lora Wilson said the VR experience helps her relax and has boosted her confidence, particularly regarding exams: 'Exams terrified me. They don't scare me as much any more.'
The Sutton schools are working with the child and adolescent mental health service (Camhs) at South West London and St George's NHS trust. With Camhs services overloaded, VR may offer a low-cost, effective way to support stressed pupils. Andy Bell, chief executive of the Centre for Mental Health, called it 'encouraging to see digital solutions being used to support children's mental health at school'.
