January often symbolises new beginnings, a time when many set resolutions to enhance their lives. In our educational journey, however, January marks almost the midpoint of the academic year, a period dedicated to reinforcing the foundations established in September. For our senior students, it is a crucial time of mock examinations, reflecting on their academic progress, and setting strategic goals to excel in their forthcoming GCSEs, A Levels, and IB Diploma assessments.

The post-holiday stretch of January can sometimes feel challenging. The festive season has concluded, and the lingering cold and extended darkness may seem unending. This is precisely why I advocate focusing on the positives during this time. Upon returning from my years in Asia, I found the British winters particularly prolonged. To counter this, I began to observe and cherish the subtle transitions of the seasons: the beautiful pink skies at sunrise and sunset on a cold crisp day; the emergence of snowdrops in late January, followed by crocuses; then the delightful golden daffodils; and finally, the fragrant bluebells carpeting our woods. A visit to the latter has been a cherished tradition from my childhood that I now share with my own children and the heady scent of the bluebell woods always brings me so much joy.

By the month’s end, we will experience approximately two additional hours of daylight compared to the start of the year. This increase can significantly uplift our spirits. Extended daylight after the school day offers opportunities to engage in outdoor activities – be it running, rowing, team sports, or a simple walk with the dog, all beneficial for our well-being. Research has shown that exposure to natural light has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improved mood and cognitive function.

Furthermore, engaging with nature provides profound mental health benefits. Research indicates that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving mood and cognitive function. Incorporating elements such as morning light exposure can enhance sleep quality by regulating our circadian rhythms. Additionally, the scents of pine and spruce trees release volatile organic compounds like pinene and limonene, which have been shown to reduce cortisol levels and elevate mood.

On a personal note, after navigating a challenging few months, I have embraced simple yet impactful resolutions this year: incorporating morning stretches and deep-breathing exercises, and daily reflections on gratitude. Research indicates that practising gratitude can enhance emotional well-being, boost resilience, and improve overall mental health. Yesterday, I found gratitude in the water levels in the King’s Ditch on our school grounds returning to normal after high levels over the weekend, the pleasure of savoring a delicious mango at lunch, and the joy of meeting wonderful prospective students who are keen to become part of the BGS community. Though seemingly random, each brought happiness in its own way. Just two weeks into January, I already feel the positive effects of these practices.

Therefore, I encourage our students to set resolutions that foster their happiness. My foremost wish is for their wellbeing. I hope they embrace our core values, particularly reflection, in ways that support their mental health, build resilience, and cultivate joy.

In closing, I share an excerpt from one of the first poems I learned in school, likely familiar to many of you. It not only references the enchanting daffodils that bring me immense joy but also extols the “bliss of solitude” found in contemplation and reflection. Here is a passage from William Wordsworth’s I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, to hopefully bring you a little joy too:

I wandered lonely as a cloud 

That floats on high o’er vales and hills, 

When all at once I saw a crowd, 

A host, of golden daffodils; 

Beside the lake, beneath the trees, 

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.