October is an important month for mental health awareness, with initiatives such as World Mental Health Day and OCD Awareness Week encouraging people to reflect on their wellbeing, challenge stigma and support those around them.

At Smile Education, we believe that education is about people first. Our Human First and Integrated into Communities pillars reflect our commitment to putting people at the heart of everything we do and building meaningful connections within the communities we serve.

This October, one of our teachers, Alisha, is bringing these values to life by launching Mindfulness Moments Circle in Birmingham – a welcoming space where people can connect, share experiences and explore practical ways to support their mental health.

Bringing people together through mindfulness

Alisha’s passion for mental health is supported by her studies in Psychology and Counselling at university, which have helped shape her career. Alongside her work in the schools she supports through Smile Education, Alisha is involved in other ventures focused on mental health and wellbeing.

Recognising that, despite growing awareness, there is still work to be done to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, Alisha has created Mindfulness Moments Circle to help people feel less alone.

The initiative aims to provide a safe, supportive environment where attendees can talk openly, learn from one another and develop practical coping strategies. Through mindfulness activities and shared experiences, the group hopes to empower people to prioritise their wellbeing and feel more confident navigating life's challenges.

Alisha’s initiative reflects the importance of our Human First approach: recognising that everyone has their own experiences, challenges and support needs. It also demonstrates how positive change can start within local communities, with people coming together to make a meaningful difference.

Join the first Mindfulness Moments Circle session in Birmingham

The first Mindfulness Moments Circle session will take place on Friday 30th October 2026, offering attendees the opportunity to explore mindfulness and discover practical tools to support their mental health.

The session will include workshops covering:

• Mindfulness: Exploring techniques to encourage greater awareness of the present moment.
• Coping with anxiety: Learning practical strategies to help manage anxious feelings.
• Journalling: Discovering how writing can help people reflect on their thoughts and emotions.

Event details

• Date: Friday 30th October 2026
• Time: 11am–12pm
• Location: Khidmat Centre, 2A Heather Road, Birmingham, B10 9TE

Whether you’re looking to explore mindfulness, learn new coping strategies or simply connect with others in a supportive environment, Mindfulness Moments Circle offers an opportunity to take a positive step towards your wellbeing.

Alisha’s message is simple but important: help is available, and you don’t have to face things alone.

Interested in attending? Book your place through Eventbrite or turn up on the day to join the Mindfulness Moments Circle.

Putting our people and communities first

At Smile Education, our responsibility extends beyond connecting schools with talented education professionals. We believe in building relationships, supporting individual wellbeing and making a positive contribution to the communities we work in.

Our Human First pillar means recognising the person behind every placement – whether they’re a candidate, a member of school staff or someone in the wider community. Through Integrated into Communities, we’re committed to developing meaningful local connections and supporting initiatives that help people feel valued, included and supported.

Alisha’s Mindfulness Moments Circle is a wonderful example of these values in action. By creating a space for people to connect and talk openly about mental health, she is helping to make a positive difference beyond the classroom.

We’re proud to work with people who share our commitment to supporting others, and we wish Alisha every success with Mindfulness Moments Circle and the difference it will make in the Birmingham community.