Local schools awarded for their positive mental health approaches

Both CBS Primary Mitchelstown and Ballindangan National School have been awarded Amber Flags from Pieta in recognition of their commitment to creating a healthy, inclusive environment that supports mental wellbeing.

In CBS Primary, the process of attaining the Amber Flag status was undertaken by teacher Pamela O’Regan. Saying that wellbeing had been an integral part of the school for a number of years, the school were “delighted” to announce they had been awarded the flag for the very first time this year.

The school began the process at the beginning of September, setting up an Amber Flag committee with representatives from each class who were decided on by election. During the year they had a ‘ Wellbeing Wednesday” once a month, and organised a whole-school exercise session.

A ‘mindful minute’ every Monday was particularly valuable to the students, says Pamela, as it equips them with a tool for all their life, and the school also held a fundraiser for the chairty Pieta House in the month of April.

“It was absolutely fantastic. During Covid it was such a lonely time and getting the flag really brought the school together.

The group exercise sessions in the yard were brilliant, because even though the classes were segregated they were together, like in an assembly. The ‘ mindful minute’ was really beneficial; it showed them the power of gratitude for the small things, because they add up to the big things”.

CBS Primary School extended their thanks to the committee and Ms. O’Regan for their success in attaining the Amber Flag. They extended a big ‘thank you’ to Pieta House for recognising all their hard work. BALLINDANGAN N.S.

In Ballindangan, the school celebrated Wellness Week in February and the children did yoga, mindfulness colouring, and meditation.

A ‘pyjamas and movie’ day was organised for November (frankly, this is something The Avondhu

could see taking off!), and in April, the children created a ‘Wellbeing Gallery’ in the school hall. Students used their creative skills to show their own favourite way to relax with their artwork displayed on the walls.

Principal Helena O’Connor congratulated all the staff and students on their achievements during the year and in attaining the coveted

Amber Flag.

Earlier in the month, Ballindangan NS also welcomed all their new Junior Infants to a Teddy Bear’s Picnic in school, where the new scholars got a tour of the school and met their new classmates.

The school reported that it was a wonderful day, and provided a great opportunity for the pupils to see their new school. All pupils said that they would return again in September!

The Amber Flag initiative from Pieta House is in its seventh year, and recognises effforts to raise awareness of the stigmas which exist in their environments, and the stressors on the mental and emotional wellbeing of those within them.

To be awarded the Pieta Amber Flag, applicant groups must host a mental health awareness event, a fundraiser and a mental health initiative.

The programme encourages teamwork and student contributions and works with school guidance counsellors to include a peer-support element.