Author Archives: Gareth Hall
While January 20th is sometimes called ‘Blue Monday,’ it’s important to recognise that mental health challenges don’t conform to a calendar. However, the winter months can be particularly demanding on our emotional wellbeing, with shorter days and post-holiday adjustments affecting how we feel.
The start of a new year often brings expectations of dramatic change and self-improvement. Yet these pressures, especially during the darker winter months, can feel overwhelming. Instead, let’s approach this time with understanding and compassion.
As we begin 2025, it can be tempting to set many big goals. But winter is a time for slowing down and reflecting. Instead of rushing into resolutions, think of this season as a chance to take care of yourself and focus on what matters most.
- Rest and Recharge: Winter is a time to pause and rest. The shorter days and longer nights are perfect for reflecting (looking back at) and gathering energy for the months ahead. Rest is important, so don’t feel guilty about taking time to relax.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Start the year with self-compassion (being kind to yourself). It’s okay to have high expectations, but also allow space for mistakes. Growth doesn’t need to happen quickly, and you can ease into your goals at your own pace.
- Explore What Inspires You: Instead of strict resolutions, think about what excites you. What brings you joy or curiosity? Use this time to reconnect with hobbies, skills, or relationships that you care about.
- Set Intentions, Not Just Goals: Instead of focusing only on specific goals, consider setting intentions for how you want to feel or what values you want to live by. For example, you could focus on kindness, creativity, or building connections.
- Enjoy the Present: Life happens moment by moment. Take time to enjoy the little things, like a walk outside, a warm drink, or spending time with loved ones. These moments can bring happiness and help you feel more grounded.
- A Year of Gentle Growth: 2025 doesn’t have to be about big changes or ticking off goals. It can be a year of slow, steady growth, focusing on what nourishes your mind and heart. Take it one step at a time—there’s no “right” way to go through the year.
This winter, embrace a gentle approach to wellbeing and set yourself up for a fulfilling year ahead.
We are thrilled to announce that Prior Pursglove College has been awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award with Merit! This achievement recognises the hard work and dedication of our Eco-Committee, led by Kristopher, in promoting environmental awareness and making our college a greener place.
Our Eco-Committee, made up of 15 enthusiastic student volunteers, has been at the forefront of our sustainability efforts. They began by conducting a thorough Environmental Review, involving all members and seeking expert guidance when needed. This hands-on approach helped the committee identify key areas where the college is already making a positive environmental impact, as well as opportunities for improvement.
The committee chose to focus on three main topics that they are passionate about, which allowed them to stay engaged and motivated throughout their journey. They made impressive strides in biodiversity, including creating no-mow areas that have attracted more wildlife and planting a memorial Cherry Blossom Tree with a commemorative bench, offering a reflective space for everyone at the college.
Communication has been key to their success, with the committee using social media, posters, and tutorial sessions to share their plans and progress. They’ve also reached out beyond the college, even contacting their local MP about sewage spillage in the North Sea, showing their commitment to driving change in the wider community.
Looking ahead, the committee has been encouraged to create a more specific action plan and to develop a concise and powerful resource, like a new green slogan or an eye-catching poster, to further inspire our college community. They also aim to expand their efforts beyond the college to engage the wider community in sustainability initiatives.
We are incredibly proud of our Eco-Committee for their achievements and the positive impact they are making. This award is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the collective efforts of everyone involved in making Prior Pursglove College a more sustainable place. Congratulations to Kristopher and the entire Eco-Committee on this fantastic achievement!
Olivia Wytcherley
We are pleased to announce the recent appointment of Olivia Wytcherley who have joined the Tees Valley Collaborative Trust as Head of Centre for Prior Pursglove College. They have stepped into their role over the past few months, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a commitment to educational excellence.
Olivia began her teaching career at Prior Pursglove in 2005 as a biology teacher, after gaining valuable experience in the local secondary school sector. Her commitment to widening participation is deeply personal and this gives her a profound understanding of the challenges faced by young people, particularly those in the 16 to 19 age group.
Olivia has been instrumental in fostering inclusive communities and has been at the forefront of creating collaborative environments for both students and staff. With a deep knowledge of quality improvement processes, Olivia ensures that standards rise and adapt to meet the needs of the community. Olivia’s vision for the future, includes enhancing community outreach provision, forging strong partnerships with local businesses, and opening our sites for greater community and business engagement. Olivia is keen to provide invaluable real-world experiences and opportunities for our students while strengthening our ties with the local community.
“I’m excited to get started and to work with such a talented team of staff and students,” Olivia said. “My focus will be on continuing to build a supportive and inspiring environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential.”
This post come alongside a variety of new roles within the Tees Valley Collaborative Trust, all focused on enhancing the quality of education and supporting the growth of our students across the region.
Nichole Munro, Chief Executive Officer for the Tees Valley Collaborative Trust, expressed her confidence in the new appointments. “We are delighted to welcome our new heads of centre to our leadership team. Their passion for education and commitment to student success are perfectly aligned with the values of our Trust. I am confident they will make a significant positive impact on their respective colleges.”
