Towards an understanding of the contribution of global learning to the wellbeing and mental health of young people with special educational needs

The aim of this study was to explore the possible impact of global learning interventions on students’ mental health and wellbeing. The study employed a mixed methods design, which consisted of student (N11) and teacher (N4) interviews, as well as a mental health and wellbeing questionnaire. The participants of this study all attended an autistic specific secondary school that served as a Global Learning Programme Expert Centre. The findings of the study indicated that students who participated in lessons that had a global learning focus, experienced a small but significant improvement in mental health and wellbeing. This small-scale study may lead to more extensive research in the area.