On 15 October 2025, the School of Mental Health & Psychological Sciences at King's College London hosted its third annual Festival celebrating world-leading research and innovative teaching.
The Festival brought together researchers, educators, PhD students and Professional Services staff from across the School to showcase cutting-edge projects spanning psychology, genetics, statistics, informatics, mental health and more.
In Session 1, speakers explored topics ranging from the effects of extreme heat on mental health and using wearable technology to measure depression symptoms, to student experiences of statistics anxiety. The education keynote, delivered by Dr James Findon, explored the theme "Team-based learning" and sparked discussion on how collaborative approaches can enhance student engagement.
In Session 2, researchers presented on topics including culturally tailored school-based interventions for child health and predictors of depression episode length. The panel discussion, "Small wins, big impact: supporting students one step at a time," encouraged reflection on inclusive teaching and the importance of small changes in improving student experience.
The final session featured the research keynote from Professor Marta Di Forti, who presented her latest work, "Life before and after cannabis use: from bench to clinic," examining the links between cannabis, genetics and psychosis, and showing the impact of her Cannabis Clinic for Patients with Psychosis. Further talks explored interdisciplinary approaches to sexism and mental health, brain waves in ADHD, and twin studies of child development.
A new chapter for the School
The Festival marked the formal handover of Head of School from Professor Dame Til Wykes, who has led the School for the past decade, to Professor Cathryn Lewis. The celebration continued into the evening reception, featuring speeches from Professor Matthew Hotopf, Executive Dean of the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, and Professor Dame Til Wykes.
Hear from Professor Cathryn Lewis, Head of School
Our annual Festival truly captures the spirit of our School: curiosity, collaboration and a shared commitment to improving mental health through research and teaching. It was inspiring to see every seat filled with our academics, students and Professional Services staff. As we look ahead, we're excited to see our work continue to influence policy, clinical practice and society.
Professor Cathryn Lewis, Head of School of Mental Health & Psychological Sciences at King's College London
About the School of Mental Health & Psychological Sciences
The School of Mental Health & Psychological Sciences is one of three Schools within the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King's College London. The School comprises four departments: Psychology, Biostatistics & Health Informatics, Health Service & Population Research, and Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry. Together, they advance our understanding of mental and physical health across the lifespan, from early development to old age, through world-leading research and education.
