At Our Lady of Mercy College we have adopted a whole school approach to Wellbeing. Parallel to our academic endeavours, we actively seek learning opportunities to enhance the physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of our students. There is overwhelming evidence to prove that students learn more effectively if they are happy in their work, if they believe in themselves, and if they feel that school is supporting them. We want our students to build life skills, and to develop a strong sense of connectedness to their school and to their community.
What supports are in place?
- Buddy System: Each first year class is supported by a nominated 6th year prefect. These “big sisters” have received training in mentoring and in supporting students as they transition from primary to post primary.
- The Care Team: The Care Team has an integral role in supporting students wellbeing. They meet regularly to discuss students’ progress, identify issues, and put supports in place for students who are experiencing problems.
- The School Guidance Counsellor provides Personal, Vocational and Educational Guidances on a one-to-one and in group settings. Unique to our school, we offer a Guidance module which covers topics such as self management, study skills, self-care, anxiety, bullying and mindfulness to name a few.
- Raising Awareness: We are always looking for opportunities to champion mental health and wellbeing eg. Mental Health Awareness Week and the very popular “Mercy Movement Challenge”.
- Check and Connect: Year heads and other members of staff offer Check and Connect system with some students. This involves students checking in with the year head at various times during the week.
- Transition team: There are many transitions in secondary school. Each of these is a very important time in a student’s life. Our Transition Team puts supports in place to assist with the transition from primary to secondary school and the movement from Junior Cycle to Leaving Certificate. The team design a programme for our incoming 1st years to facilitate the transition ensuring our new students feel supported, welcomed and know who to turn to for help.
