Cullybackey College appoints student Mental Health ambassadors

Students on the Committee will undertake the role of Mental Health and Well-being Ambassadors, where they will raise awareness of key issues facing young people and contribute to the delivery of the Colleges’ preventative curriculum.

Sarah Hanna, Student Council leader, said, “This is a great initiative where we can raise awareness of issues students in our school might face and guide and signpost them for help. We agreed on the theme, ‘If you are not ok, please say’. We are encouraging students to speak if they are facing challenges or difficulties. We will work in conjunction with the Colleges’ pastoral team to support all students.”

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassadors underwent training where they completed safeguarding, mental health and counselling workshops led by professionals with expertise in these areas. These workshops have equipped the students with the confidence and skills to commence their roles. Ambassadors have been allocated to Year groups who they will work alongside this academic year.

Head Boy Adam Wilson and Head Girl Jasmine McCrory are both involved.

Adam said: “We really want to make a difference. We are fully endorsing and promoting the caring ethos of our school. In the era we live in, we want all students to know that both teachers and fellow students are here to support, help and advise them.”

Jasmine said: “It is great to be involved in such a positive initiative that is student led and student delivered. We will use this opportunity to made a positive impact for all students in our School.”

Principal, David Donaldson is very enthusiastic about the initiative, stating: “We are always looking at ways to empower students and give them a voice. This is a great way for students to act as role models for fellow students and we hope the messages that Ambassadors send out, make a positive difference to students wellbeing and their knowledge and understanding of issues relevant to them.”