Being present with the past: an exploration of using mythology and creativity as a new intervention for children's wellbeing and perception of self.

This project proposes to chart and analyse the development and implementation of a new intervention to support children's socio-emotional wellbeing. The intervention would use creative arts approaches to explore classical mythology, with the aim to help children examine, share and challenge experiences using the past as a mediator. As a practicing SENDCO, I find that many of the current wellbeing interventions that are available are lacking in research basis, meaning they can often be ineffective. Creative arts approaches to wellbeing intervention are often undervalued by staff and parents as distractive, rather than proactive ways to enhance a child's connection with their perception of self. From my MEd research, I found that combining creative approaches with the study of mythology allowed students to explore their own perception of self through the refracted emotions of other characters. The literal and figurative space of classical mythology allows children to explore intrepid and difficult situations, without directly discussing their own experience. The aim of this project is to act upon the findings of this research, and to shape an inclusive space for children to reflect and enhance their perception of self, irrespective of their own academic attainment or social awareness. I hope to reassess our perceptions of how we approach SEND support interventions, by using an empirically led research base to underpin the importance of free and and expressive practice.