Coming Full Circle: Why Teaching Wellbeing Feels Like a True Gift

Recently, I had the profound privilege of returning to Heaton Public School — the very school I attended as a child. Remarkably, two of the teachers who guided me all those years ago are still there, continuing their important work.

This full circle moment reminded me just how lasting and powerful a school community’s influence can be in shaping a child’s life, often in ways we don’t fully appreciate until much later.

This time, I returned not as a student, but as someone entrusted to teach wellbeing — to contribute to the same community that helped shape me. Walking those familiar pathways stirred a deep sense of reflection and gratitude. It highlighted for me how the early years of learning, growth, and connection lay the foundation for a person’s future wellbeing and resilience. It’s not just about academics; it’s about nurturing the whole child — their confidence, their emotional health, their sense of belonging.

As a parent preparing my own child for kindergarten, this experience has made me even more aware of the critical role these formative years play. The lessons children receive about emotional health, self-awareness, and resilience are just as vital as literacy and numeracy.

These early experiences teach them how to understand themselves, how to build healthy relationships, and how to face life’s inevitable challenges. They equip young people to navigate a complex, fast-changing world with strength and hope.

At LIVEfree Project, our commitment to delivering wellbeing education is driven by this deep understanding. We believe in providing young people with the tools, skills, and support they need to build strong mental health and emotional resilience. Our programs focus on creating safe, nurturing environments where children can develop a positive sense of self, learn to manage their emotions, build healthy connections, and grow with confidence.

The need for this work has never been greater.

Many young people today face pressures that previous generations couldn’t have imagined — from the impact of social media and digital connectivity, to family instability, economic uncertainty, and broader societal challenges.

These factors can seriously affect their mental health and overall wellbeing. By investing in wellbeing education early, we help equip the next generation not just to survive these challenges, but to thrive despite them.

Being part of this process — of sowing strength, hope, and resilience into the lives of young people — is a true privilege. It’s a responsibility that we carry with care and humility. It reminds us of the importance of community, connection, and consistent support. The seeds planted in these early years can grow into strong roots that carry children through life’s highs and lows.

At LIVEfree Project, we remain dedicated to walking alongside our children and youth, providing programs that empower, support, and inspire. Because when we invest in their wellbeing today, we help build a stronger, healthier community for tomorrow — a community where every child has the opportunity to flourish.

Written by Emma Griffin, Community Engagement Officer, LIVEfree Project