Matthew Williams founder of Knock Out Depression, worked alongside our HeadStart team at Ings Farm Primary School.
Standing side by side with other people who truly understand children’s emotional wellbeing and what can be achieved in schools, is always a great experience.
The sessions blended boxing with mental wellbeing in a way that was relatable, felt real and was engaging for the year 6 pupils. Drawing from his experience, Matthew has built an approach that helps people understand mental health while giving them practical tools to manage it, using boxing as a metaphor.
Together, HeadStart and Knock Out Depression brought a session to year 6, supporting pupils as they prepare for SATs. Not focussing on the tests or the pressure, but giving them something more valuable, the skills to cope. In the session, the school became a training ground, learning balance, perseverance, and consistency, supporting them to build their resilience. They explored how mindset, and how our thoughts shape our feelings and how they can work on shifting their views to reinforce positive narratives of themselves.
Boxing isn’t about fighting, it’s about understanding that life will throw challenges and it’s ok not to get everything right the first time. Matthew showed these children that finding your own small, consistent actions can help you come back stronger.
Matthew is ready to work with schools, delivering a structured, non-contact, boxing-themed wellbeing programme that builds resilience and brings a wider understanding of emotional wellbeing in a practical way.
Published: May 5