Ipswich school joins growing movement teaching pupils breathing techniques

Why it matters: Schools across the UK are seeking new ways to support pupils' mental health. Cliff Lane Primary's adoption of breathing techniques represents a growing trend of schools taking new approaches to emotional wellbeing.

The big picture: Staff member Kerry Snell has qualified as a School Breathe Breath Coach, bringing specialist breathing techniques to pupils aged 4 to 10. The programme is run by School Breathe, a community interest company working to introduce breathwork tools in schools nationwide.

How it works:

• Teachers initially identified small groups of children who could benefit most

• Pupils learn techniques like Straw Breathing and Box Breathing

• The school has since rolled out the programme more widely

What they're saying: "My journey delivering School Breathe techniques to the children of Cliff Lane Primary has been incredibly rewarding," Snell said. "The response has been exciting and transformative, not only for the children but also for me."

Success in action: The impact is already visible. One Year 1 pupil who previously struggled with emotional regulation has shown significant improvement after learning the techniques. "The difference was unbelievable—he's become calmer and now uses the breathing exercises to help himself," Snell said.

Bottom line: As more schools seek ways to support pupils' mental health, Cliff Lane Primary's experience suggests breathing techniques could offer a practical solution. The school joins a growing number of schools supporting emotional wellbeing through breath awareness.