At Sacred Heart School, Siliguri, a residential school affiliated to ICSE and ISC, learning is not limited to classrooms or textbooks. The school actively creates opportunities for students to explore personal growth, creativity, and well-being. In line with this vision, an Art Therapy Workshop was recently conducted by Ms. Deepika Tarafder for both boys and girls of Classes 6 to 10. The workshop encouraged students to see art not just as a form of creativity but as a meaningful tool for expression, emotional balance, and connection with others.
Art therapy is increasingly recognized as a powerful medium that helps individuals process thoughts and emotions in ways that words sometimes cannot. During the session, Ms. Tarafder introduced students to the concept of art as a language of the mind and heart. She explained how simple creative exercises could help release stress, build confidence, and open pathways for self-discovery. Students were invited to participate in activities that combined imagination with mindfulness, giving them a safe space to reflect on their feelings and relate to one another.
One student described the experience in detail: “She guided students of classes 6 to 10 about the use and function of art therapy. She made us do several activities and described our thoughts as art, without opening our eyes. She asked us about our experiences in the session and had us speak about our beliefs and aspirations.”
Activities such as blind drawing, guided reflection, and sharing personal experiences encouraged students to let go of hesitation and express themselves freely. Many discovered that art could capture emotions and aspirations that were difficult to put into words. Beyond the act of creating, students engaged in open discussions where they listened to one another’s interpretations, shared challenges and opportunities, and learned to relate and grow together. This collaborative aspect helped students form closer bonds with their peers and understand that learning and growth often happen in community.
The workshop was not only about creativity but also about mental wellness. By guiding students to channel their thoughts and emotions into art, Ms. Tarafder emphasized that mental health is as important as academic progress. The experience reinforced the idea that schools should serve as spaces where children learn to balance knowledge, creativity, emotional resilience, and interpersonal understanding.
The Art Therapy Workshop at Sacred Heart School, Siliguri reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to holistic education. By introducing students to innovative practices like art therapy, the school ensures that learners develop both academically and emotionally while building meaningful connections with their peers. Sessions such as these equip students with tools to understand themselves better, support one another, and embrace challenges with greater self-awareness. Sacred Heart School continues to provide a nurturing environment where education, well-being, and community go hand in hand.