A mind health programme taught in primary and intermediate schools is having a significant impact on boys

The Pause Breathe Smile programme launched in 2013 - to help pupils and teachers navigate life's ups and downs.

With Southern Cross funding, it's being rolled out to all primary and intermediate schools over the next five years.

Mental Health Foundation chief executive Shaun Robinson says independent research shows it works exceptionally well for boys.

He says that's in terms of their behaviour, relationships with students and teachers, concentration and focus, and school work.