Wellbeing is present when a person realises their potential, is resilient in dealing with the normal stresses
of their life, takes care of their physical wellbeing and has a sense of purpose, connection and belonging to
a wider community. It is a fluid way of being and needs nurturing throughout life.
Wellbeing Policy Statement and Framework for Practice
The wellbeing of all is at the heart of what we do at Abbey Community College. We define Wellbeing as care of the individual in the school to ensure they are contented, healthy and successful. This is reflected in our Charter of Care and Mission Statement.
NEPS Recognition for Wellbeing Promotion
Abbey Community College is proud to be recognised by the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) for best practice in promoting wellbeing in schools. NEPS staff recently visited our school to learn more about our experience and reflections on using the School Self-Evaluation (SSE) process to initiate a comprehensive wellbeing review and development cycle. This commendation reflects the strong culture of care and continuous improvement in Abbey, where student wellbeing is at the heart of our educational approach.
Pieta House Amber Flag
Abbey Community College is proud to announce that we have been awarded the prestigious Amber Flag from Pieta House, recognising our ongoing commitment to promoting positive mental health within our school community. Our school community has worked tirelessly to foster an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging teamwork and active participation from students and staff alike. Through a range of impactful initiatives, the committee has helped raise awareness of mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and highlight the importance of emotional wellbeing. We are honoured by this recognition and remain committed to continuing this vital work in the years ahead.
Whole-school Initiatives
Read all about Wellbeing Week 2024 here.
Read all about Respect Week 2023 here.
A whole school approach is adopted in Abbey Community College which involves all members of the school community engaging in a collaborative process of change to improve specific areas of school life that impact on wellbeing.
Whole School Wellbeing Promotion
The promotion of whole-school wellbeing is central to all that we do in Abbey Community College. We are a centre for learning in the heart of community who support and encourage a positive environment for students and staff, which in turn allows students’ academic achievement to evolve. Wellbeing education is a priority for us all and can be progressed through the School Self-Evaluation (SSE) process. SSE can also help a school to address the wellbeing challenges that arise for staff or learners. The adoption of a multi-component, preventative, whole-school approach is most beneficial in promoting wellbeing. This involves all members of the school community collaborating to change and improve specific areas of school life that impact on wellbeing.
Wellbeing Policy Statement and Framework for Practice
Whole School Wellbeing Promotion Survey - May 2022
As part of our School Self-Evaluation (SSE) process, we invited our whole school community to partake in an online survey around the area of whole school wellbeing. The results of this survey have informed our focus area for wellbeing promotion.
Updates on School Self-Evaluation and Wellbeing can be found here.
Wellbeing in the Junior Cycle Curriculum
The Framework for Junior Cycle (2015) provides for a new area of learning at junior cycle called Wellbeing. Wellbeing crosses the three years of junior cycle and builds on substantial work already taking place in schools in support of students’ wellbeing. This area of learning will make the school’s culture and ethos and commitment to wellbeing visible to students. It will include learning opportunities to enhance the physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of students. It will enable students to build life skills and develop a strong sense of connectedness to their school and to their community.
Further information can be found on the NCCA's Wellbeing page of their website: https://www.ncca.ie/en/junior-cycle/wellbeing
The Framework for Junior Cycle (2015) states that the junior cycle years are a critical time in young peoples’ lives. Students are exposed to a range of influences, including peer pressure. They require support to make positive responsible decisions relating to their health and wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. Wellbeing in junior cycle is about young people feeling confident, happy, healthy and connected. Abbey Community College endeavours to ensure that this is a reality for everyone in our school community.
A dedicated Wellbeing curriculum is implemented in junior cycle. This aims to ensure that all students engage in important learning about wellbeing through key curriculum areas. Students engage in three compulsory timetabled Wellbeing subjects/short courses known as the three pillars (CSPE, PE, SPHE including RSE) as well as a timetabled Wellbeing subject in 2nd and 3rd year. This includes the following modules of learning: Career Guidance, Financial Wellbeing and Nurture for Wellbeing. Other activities complement our Wellbeing programme including computer studies, school induction programmes, school retreats, visiting speakers and workshops.
