Teach Peace: mindfulness + wellbeing in schools
Teach Peace is an educational initiative supported by the European Buddhist Union.
Mainly active in the UK and Europe, the project helps schools create calmer, more compassionate, and socially connected learning environments. It promotes peace not only as the absence of conflict, but as emotional well-being, empathy, respectful communication, and healthy relationships within schools.
The project works mainly with teachers and school leaders. Its central idea is that peaceful school cultures begin with the emotional awareness and behaviour of adults in the classroom. When teachers develop mindfulness, emotional regulation, active listening, and compassion, these qualities positively influence students and improve the wider school atmosphere.
Teach Peace uses a “Peace Champion” model, where a teacher becomes the local coordinator and works with trainers to introduce the programme. The process includes planning with school leadership, teacher workshops, guided practice and mentoring.
The methods are influenced by mindfulness and contemplative education. Activities include breathing exercises, attention training, emotional-awareness practices, compassion exercises, and communication techniques to reduce stress and strengthen relationships. The programme aims to help both students and teachers become more self-aware, resilient, and cooperative.
Teach Peace also offers coaching, retreats, and community support for educators.
Overall, Teach Peace seeks to transform school culture by helping educators develop inner calm and emotional balance, leading to greater understanding, inclusion and peace within classrooms and communities.
If you are a teacher and wish to start a peace project in your school, visit Teach Peace to learn more.
