Brilliant little things: drama-based mindfulness to support pre-service teacher wellbeing

Wellbeing is increasingly recognised as a critical concern in teacher education, yet pre-service teachers remain vulnerable to stress, burnout, and early attrition. This study examines Brilliant Little Things, an arts-based wellbeing initiative embedded within a drama education program. Using a phenomenological approach, the research draws on interviews, reflective journals, group chat posts, photographs, and artwork to explore how drama-based mindfulness practices can support the wellbeing of drama educators. Findings reveal how the production fostered reflection, connection, and emotional insight, offering a space for mindfulness and community. Narratives highlight the value of creative, relational pedagogies in strengthening resilience. This research contributes to conversations about wellbeing in initial teacher education, particularly the potential of arts-based strategies to complement mindfulness in accessible ways. It affirms that drama, when facilitated ethically and inclusively, can meaningfully support the psychological and social wellbeing of beginning teachers.