The ACT model: an exercise for education staff

About this resource

This short resource from Education Support introduces the ACT model (Awareness, Check thoughts, Try alternatives), a simple framework designed to help education staff respond to challenging thoughts and feelings in a healthier way.

The exercise supports staff mental health and wellbeing by encouraging acceptance of thoughts and emotions while building emotional intelligence and self-awareness. It provides a practical approach that can help strengthen resilience and confidence across schools and colleges.

The exercise can be used for personal reflection or incorporated into staff meetings and professional development sessions, creating opportunities for shared learning and discussion.

Using this resource

This resource is designed for: 

• education staff across all settings
• senior leaders and mental health leads.

Learning outcomes

This resource addresses the following learning outcomes:

• Access and utilise tools, strategies and resources to support their own mental health so that they can look after themselves.
• Share simple evidence-based strategies and exercises with staff and pupils/students to help them manage their mental health and develop their own coping strategies.