International Day of Education 2026: Co-creation and Mental Health in Education
Every year on 24 January, the world marks the International Day of Education, celebrating the role that learning plays in fostering peace, development and human dignity. In 2026, the theme is “The power of youth in co-creating education” — a reminder that education systems are strongest when shaped with those they serve. Rather than positioning young people as passive recipients, this year’s observance highlights the value of students as active partners and co-creators in shaping how they learn and grow.
For educators, school staff and mental health practitioners in the UK, this theme resonates deeply with long-standing calls for more meaningful student involvement in school life. Co-creation goes beyond consultation or asking for views; it involves sharing power, developing transparent feedback loops, and supporting learners to contribute to decisions that affect their everyday experiences. This matters for mental health because feeling heard and respected is strongly linked to a sense of belonging, agency and wellbeing — all of which are protective factors in children and young people’s emotional development.
Student Voice
Research and practice in the UK increasingly recognise the importance of student voice and participation in promoting mental health. For example, participation in decision-making is identified by mental health experts as a vital component of empowerment, helping to shape effective support services and avoid unintended harm (Student Minds, 2025). When young people are involved in shaping the supports and systems around them, they are more likely to engage, feel understood and benefit from environments that respond to their real needs.
Linking participation to wellbeing also echoes broader educational priorities in the UK. Schools and colleges have been encouraged to adopt whole-school approaches to mental health, which integrate wellbeing across the curriculum, policies and culture rather than treat it as an add-on. For instance, recent conferences such as the Education in Mind event in Liverpool brought together professionals from education, health and social care to explore what a joined-up approach looks like in practice — emphasising collaboration as key to strengthening mental health support.
Tools supporting co-creation
In this spirit, simple tools that support co-creation can play a meaningful role. One example — developed for Association of Mental Health in Education (AMHIE) members — is the “You Said, We Did” approach, designed to help schools and colleges respond visibly to student feedback. By inviting learners to share views, collaboratively identifying achievable actions, and communicating outcomes transparently, educational settings can send a powerful message: student voices matter and can influence real change. This not only builds trust but also reinforces a sense of collective agency, which is vital for emotional wellbeing.
Co-creation doesn’t replace specialist mental health support, nor does it solve all challenges on its own. However, it aligns with the evidence that mental health in education is not just about clinical services but also about cultures and relationships that support young people’s sense of control and belonging. As we mark International Day of Education this January, adopting co-creative practices can be a practical way for schools and colleges to honour young people’s insights, deepen their engagement, and contribute to a healthier, more inclusive educational experience.
You Said, We Did
This resource is designed for education staff who want to explore ways of responding to student feedback meaningfully, without adding extra workload. It can be used by teachers, pastoral staff, school leaders, or anyone working with young people who wishes to encourage participation and trust in their school community. If you liked this free resource, consider joining us a member and we’ll send you monthly resources and information designed to save you time and boost your understanding of current trends in mental health in education.
Here’s your free guide to implementing ‘you said, we did’
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