New wellbeing initiative for Mayo school

It was a historic day in Claremorris last Friday, October 27, when mdeducational foundation held its inaugural launch at Mount Saint Michael Secondary School.

Attended by Minister of State Dara Calleary and Aishah Akorede, Miss Universe Ireland 2023, the much-anticipated inauguration was dedicated to the over 200 senior cycle students of Mount St Michael, where mdeducational foundation announced the funding of Ireland's first Wellbeing Lead - a three-year salary funding that provides the school with a kickstart to their long-term wellbeing strategy.

Since identifying the increasing gap in support for post-16 students, mdeducational foundation was set up to support and provide an environment that normalises student psychological fitness and resilience through early intervention. mdeducational foundation provides educational establishments across the UK and Ireland with the opportunity to receive salary funding for the placement of a wellbeing professional to support their post-16 students.

Mount St Michael alumni and supporter of mdeducational foundation, Ireland’s First Lady Sabina Higgins commented: “The work that the mdeducational foundation does, providing much-needed well-being support in schools, speaks volumes about the organisation's commitment to the health of young people. By focusing on the mental health of young minds through the placement of Wellbeing Leads, [mdeducational foundation's] support to those in need is making a profound difference in the lives of countless young people.” 

Mrs Higgins added: “It is also vitally essential to recognise the global context within which we operate. Mental health plays a crucial role in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the interconnected global goals that serve as a roadmap for a better and more sustainable future for all, reminding us of our shared responsibility to leave no one behind.

"[mdeducational foundation's] important work in advocating wellness for our young people resonates deeply with Goal Number 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote good wellbeing for all at all ages.” 

Grace McGee, the newly appointed Mount St Michael Secondary School Wellbeing Lead, shared her hopes for the upcoming three years.

“The wellbeing hub is a space for the students to have their voices heard and find access to support. Young people can sometimes experience challenges and on occasion, some may feel lonely. A non-judgmental space and open conversation allow students to 'just be'."

Students will receive tips and strategies to help them better navigate their wellbeing journey - a place where my door is always open.” 

Minister Dara Calleary, who addressed the students as a keynote speaker, said: "While mental health is something that we haven’t dealt with very well in Ireland, you’re really privileged to have the army of support and the army of love that will come with this programme.” 

mdeducational foundation’s co-founder, Miriam Dervan, said the objective of her organisation was:

“For all post-16 students to feel supported in every aspect of their wellbeing, helping them on their journey to a brighter future. To reach and fund as many schools as possible, so that we can serve as many young people as possible.”