The King’s Wellbeing Team are here to support you with a wide variety of concerns. Our nine Faculty Wellbeing Advisors offer one-to-one wellbeing appointments, both online and in-person. These appointments are a non-judgemental space, where you and the advisor can explore together what could be most helpful now and going forward to support your wellbeing and your studies.
You can book an appointment online. If you have questions or would like more information on the wellbeing service, you can email the Wellbeing Team.
We caught up with two of the Faculty Wellbeing Advisors, Rebecca and Darren, to find out more about who they are and what they can do to support you, as well as their top tips for assessment season.
Faculty Wellbeing Advisor, Rebecca.
Hello! To start us off, could you tell us a bit about yourselves?
Rebecca: I’m Rebecca, and I’ve been in the wellbeing team since January 2024. I’ve worked in education for my whole career, initially as a Primary School teacher and department leader, then into work in a Local Authority before moving into Higher Education roles.
I’ve got a Psychology degree as well as training in counselling and coaching, the latter of which I did as a mature student alongside my work over the years. I think that helps me to identify with some of the challenges of being a student.
I really enjoy the varied nature of my role, talking to students each day and providing support and guidance where it’s needed. It’s particularly rewarding when students are able to take some of the tools we’ve discussed in a wellbeing appointment to help them make a positive move forward.
Darren: I’m Darren, and I’ve been part of the Wellbeing Team since June 2024. My early career was rooted in youth and community work, and for the past 7 years I’ve worked in Higher Education supporting student development, experience, satisfaction, and success. I hold a Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management, as well as a Level 3 qualification as an Athlete Personal Development Coach.
I’m also the author of the book Power of 21 – Pathways Towards a Brighter Future, a Trustee for the UK’s leading youth homelessness charity, and a TEDx speaker for the Hidden Heroes Series.
For me what I value most in my role is helping students navigate challenges and supporting them through difficult moments so they can move forward with confidence.
What are some of the common concerns students come to you with?
Rebecca: Students bring a wide variety of issues to our service, but common concerns include stress or overwhelm in relation to their studies, low mood, difficulties with personal relationships, time management, procrastination, and perfectionism.
Darren: I’d say the most common concerns students bring to us include anxiety, stress, low mood, loneliness and isolation, difficulties coping with their studies, and personal situations that may be causing them distress.
What’s one thing you wish more students knew about the support you offer?
Rebecca: I wish students knew that it’s best to reach out before things get too difficult. If someone is ever feeling unsure about whether wellbeing support is right for them, I’d encourage them to book in and have a chat. We are always happy to help!
Darren: You can expect that by speaking with us, we’ll work with you to create an action plan and share resources that may help you get back on track, while also ensuring you leave the appointment feeling heard, supported, and understood.
What’s a common misconception about the service that you’d like to debunk?
Rebecca: I think sometimes students think that we offer counselling or therapy; whilst we don’t offer this, we can both explain how to access it. We do offer structured coaching, and a safe space to explore next steps.
Darren: What Rebecca said is so accurate. It’s one of the most common misconceptions, but we’re always happy to guide students toward the support that best fits their needs.
What are your top wellbeing tips for students during assessment season?
Rebecca: My three top tips are:
- Keep a routine, to include a regular bedtime, daily downtime and relaxation.
- Keep in touch with friends – maybe consider a study group to boost morale!
- Plan some fun things to look forward to post-exam season.
Darren:
- Pace yourself with a realistic study plan that includes regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Fit in time for rest, go for short walks, speak to friends, stretch, have a proper meal and take a break from screens. It can really help your nervous system settle.
- Plan something fun to do post-exams for the summer months.
Finally, what do you do to look after your own wellbeing?
Rebecca: I get to the gym regularly, even on the days when I don’t feel like it, as those are the days it benefits me most!
Darren: I like to regularly train at the gym and work on my fitness. I love a Netflix series and occasionally attend theatre shows.
Resources for support