health
London schools trialling VR to relieve pupils’ stress
Phase Space pilot programme with NHS mental health trust used to calm anxiety around exams, ADHD and home troubles
TL;DR
- Schools in the London borough of Sutton are using VR headsets in a pilot program with the local NHS mental health trust.
- The VR program, developed by Phase Space, lasts seven minutes and is designed to help students calm down and regain confidence.
- Pupils experiencing anxiety, ADHD, or stress from home life are accessing the VR sessions, either scheduled or on-demand.
- Schools report a reduction in students leaving lessons due to distress and an overall calmer environment.
- Nine out of ten pupils using the VR headsets saw an immediate drop in stress, with improvements noted in attendance, behavior, and exam-related anxiety.
- Students describe the VR experience as transporting them to another place, aiding relaxation and processing of feelings.
- The technology is seen as a potentially low-cost and effective tool for schools to support student mental health, especially given overloaded CAMHS services.