A story, drawing or performance can begin with a shared question. Students need not disclose a personal diagnosis or difficult event to contribute. This illustrative 60-minute agenda follows the school resource for The Matters That Count. It is not a clinical protocol; the school and safeguarding lead approve its use and age suitability.
Before the session
Choose a question such as “What helps someone feel included when they arrive somewhere new?” Prepare a fictional situation. Decide which adult is responsible, what materials are available and how the group can seek support privately. Explain how creative work may be used; public display is a separate choice.
First 5 minutes: Open the space
Introduce the prompt. Explain the option to pass and the different ways to contribute. Name the responsible adult and the established support route. Do not promise absolute confidentiality in a setting where safeguarding duties apply.
Next 15 minutes: Explore
Discuss the fictional situation or a shared question. Invite ideas about what a character might notice or need. Keep the focus on possibilities rather than asking who in the room has experienced the situation.
Next 10 minutes: Notice themes
Agree two or three collective themes. Capture an image, phrase or question that the group considers suitable for creative work. Keep private accounts and safeguarding notes out of this shared record.
Next 20 minutes: Make a first response
Use words, sketch, movement, music or another accessible medium. A rough first attempt is enough. Offer individual and group options, and do not equate confidence in performance with meaningful participation.
Final 10 minutes: Reflect and continue
Ask what the work communicates and what the group wants to develop. Agree one next creative step. Remind students of the support route. Keep decisions about photographs, names and public sharing separate from taking part.
For a 45-minute version, shorten exploration and making while preserving the opening boundaries and closing reflection. Record the broad theme, next step and adult owner. Art is the activity here; making it does not by itself establish a mental-health outcome.