Mental health on the curriculum in Scotland

Heath and wellbeing

As a subject, Health and Wellbeing has six organisers:

• mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing (MESP)
• planning for choices and changes
• physical education, physical activity and sport
• food and health
• substance misuse
• relationships, sexual health and parenthood (RSHP)

Children and young people study all six of these organisers no matter what education phase they’re in. What they will learn under these organisers depends on their age and phase of learning – for example, younger children will learn about the basics of eating healthily, whereas older children will learn more about actually preparing healthy food. However, the mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing part of the subject applies to children of all ages.

Experiences and outcomes

Within Health and Wellbeing, there are a number of experiences and outcomes, often called Es+Os, that children should be taught consistently throughout their education. 

Examples of these Es+Os include:

Mental and emotional wellbeing

• I am aware of and able to express my feelings and am developing the ability to talk about them.
• I know that we all experience a variety of thoughts and emotions that affect how we feel and behave, and I am learning ways of managing them.
• I understand the importance of mental wellbeing and that this can be fostered and strengthened through personal coping skills and positive relationships. I know that it is not always possible to enjoy good mental health and that if this happens there is support available.

Social wellbeing

• I recognise that each individual has a unique blend of abilities and needs. I contribute to making my school community one which values individuals equally and is a welcoming place for all.
• I make full use of and value the opportunities I am given to improve and manage my learning, and, in turn, I can help to encourage learning and confidence in others.
• Representing my class, school and/or wider community encourages my self-worth and confidence and allows me to contribute to and participate in society.