Thomond Community College is proud to announce that we have been awarded the Amber Flag by Pieta, recognising our dedication to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing within our school community. This achievement is even more special through our ongoing collaboration with Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health, which has played a key role in supporting our efforts.
Over the past year, our Wellbeing Team has worked closely with Jigsaw to develop initiatives to foster a culture of openness and support around mental health. Together, we have introduced a variety of programs and activities, including:
- Jigsaw Workshops: Students participated in workshops designed to enhance their understanding of mental health, encourage help-seeking behaviours, and equip them with tools to build resilience.
- Staff Training: Jigsaw provided training for teachers and staff, ensuring they are equipped to support students’ mental health needs effectively.
- Wellbeing Days: Special days dedicated to mindfulness, physical activity, and creative expression, helping staff and students to relax, recharge, and connect with one another.
- Peer Support Initiatives: With guidance from Jigsaw, senior students were trained to act as mental health ambassadors, fostering a supportive and empathetic school environment.
The Amber Flag recognises the events and activities we’ve held and our school’s commitment to embedding mental health awareness into our everyday culture. We are incredibly proud of the meaningful steps our school has taken to prioritise mental health, reduce stigma, and create a supportive environment for everyone. We look forward to continuing our journey towards more significant mental health awareness and support at Thomond Community College. Together, we’re making a difference!