Respecting our Wellbeing.
Abbey Community College Celebrates Wellbeing Week.
Abbey Community College celebrated a vibrant Wellbeing Week from Monday 7th to Friday 11th October 2024. This initiative coincided with World Mental Health Day and supported Pieta House's Amber Flag initiative. The week was designed to promote mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing across the school community, engaging students, staff, and parents/guardians in a series of thoughtfully curated activities.
In a heartwarming session titled ‘Gratitude is Our Attitude’, students and staff reflected on the importance of gratitude in promoting positive mental health. Participants were invited to share what they were thankful for, written on individual leaves, which will be displayed on our gratitude tree. This simple yet impactful activity reminded everyone of the importance of acknowledging the good in their lives, reinforcing the notion that gratitude is a powerful tool for enhancing overall wellbeing.
‘Anti-Vaping Lessons’ took place, where students learned about the health risks associated with vaping. These sessions sparked meaningful discussions about peer pressure and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This initiative aimed to equip our young people with knowledge to make informed decisions about their health, fostering a culture of wellbeing and safety.
‘Autism Awareness Lessons’ were also an integral part of the week, recognising the diverse needs of the student body and aiming to promote understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. These lessons provided valuable insights into the experiences of individuals with autism, fostering empathy and inclusivity within the school community.
The power of music in enhancing wellbeing was showcased through the ‘Singing for Wellbeing’ session and the lively ‘NOASIS Lunchtime Concert’. Students and staff united in song, experiencing firsthand how music can uplift spirits, foster friendships, and reduce stress. The atmosphere was vibrant, with staff and students cheering each other on, creating a sense of community and connection.
Art workshops entitled ‘Art for Stress Relief’ and ‘Mingle and Make’ provided a creative outlet for students, allowing them to express their emotions and thoughts through various artistic mediums. These workshops encouraged self-discovery and provided tools for emotional expression, essential components of a balanced life.
Sessions titled ‘Wellbeing through the Irish’ and “Wellbeing through French” incorporated languages into wellbeing activities. This not only promoted linguistic skills but also integrated discussions around mental health and wellbeing, demonstrating that language learning can be a holistic experience.
Another engaging initiative was ‘Chat and Connect (Speed Friendship)’, where students from different year groups had the chance to meet new peers in a fun, fast-paced format. This activity aimed to build social connections, reinforcing the importance of relationships in mental health.
Home Economics students took part in a ‘Smoothie Making Workshop’, promoting healthy eating habits while providing a fun and interactive experience. Participants not only learned about the nutritional benefits of different ingredients but also enjoyed the camaraderie that developed over shared recipes and laughter. Meanwhile, our Leaving Certificate Applied students organised a ‘Coffee Morning’ for staff, offering a relaxed setting for staff to connect, unwind, and sample sweet treats, fostering a sense of community and support among colleagues.
The ‘Movement for Wellbeing Activities’ ran throughout the week with fun physical activities that promoted movement and fitness. These sessions highlighted the link between physical activity and mental wellbeing, encouraging students to stay active and engaged.
Each morning, a member of our Student Council delivered our ‘Daily Action for Wellbeing’ on the school intercom. The ‘Drop Everything and Breathe’ initiative encouraged students and staff to pause their activities for a few moments of focused breathing and mindfulness. This simple yet powerful practice provided a refreshing break in the day, helping everyone to reset and recharge. Our student Library Leaders also put together daily ‘Books for Wellbeing Recommendations’ to promote reading for leisure. Together, these efforts fostered a culture of wellbeing, reminding everyone at Abbey Community College to prioritise self-care and mental wellness in their daily lives.
Wellbeing Week at Abbey Community College was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the school community. The overwhelming participation and positive feedback highlighted the collective commitment to fostering a supportive environment where wellbeing is valued. By instilling a culture of care and connection, the school not only celebrated individual wellbeing but also strengthened the bonds within the community. As Abbey Community College reflects on this successful week, the lessons learned and relationships built will undoubtedly continue to inspire a sustained focus on wellbeing throughout the academic year.
