by the Tuam Herald
COLÁISTE Bhaile Chláir has won the Cycle Against Suicide Ambassador School Award. It was presented to the school at a ceremony held at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham.
The awards recognised the efforts of 83 schools around Ireland who have completed the Ambassador School Programme, and become actively involved in mental health promotion.
The Ambassador School Programme, one aspect of a wide range of Cycle Against Suicide initiatives, is schooled, and involves the completion of Five Gears over the course of a year, all of which are aimed at raising awareness of the message that it’s OK not to feel OK; and it’s absolutely OK to ask for help.
Coláiste Bhaile Chláir was awarded the status of Ambassador School by Cycle Against Suicide in recognition of its fulfilment of the Five Gears, and its exceptional commitment to the promotion of positive mental health.
Coláiste Bhaile Chláir was represented at the event by link teacher, Kevin McHugh and students Rebecca Norman and Liam Veenstra, who are very proud of their achievements.
“The Ambassador School Awards ceremony was a great day. It’s wonderful to attend such a positive event, and have the efforts of the students recognised.
“Our participation in the programme has had an enormous positive impact on our school community, fostered a school-wide approach to the promotion of positive mental health, and provided incredible opportunities for student leadership,” says Kevin McHugh.
Representatives from the main education bodies and trusts, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors and the Ombudsman for Children, Niall Muldoon, all attended to celebrate the achievements of the schools involved.
Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton, congratulated the schools.
“This s a hugely important issue that affects so many families. I strongly support the promotion of positive mental health awareness in both primary and post-primary schools,” he said.
The Founder of Cycle Against Suicide, Jim Breen thanked all Ambassador Schools.
“Each of them as gone the extra mile to raise awareness of our message, empowering themselves and others to build resilience, and seek help when necessary,” he said.
