Education Minister Norma Foley has announced a new grant scheme to help primary schools improve student wellbeing. Schools in Cork, Carlow, and parts of Dublin will each receive €2,000 to spend on initiatives that support mental health and create a positive environment for students.
This grant is part of a larger program called the Counselling in Primary Schools pilot. The schools getting the money have already been working with special Education Wellbeing Teams since last year. These teams include wellbeing experts and psychologists who help schools promote good mental health.
With the new funding, schools can get creative in supporting their students. Some ideas include:
- Creating wellbeing gardens
- Painting colorful murals
- Setting up calm zones for students
- Buying equipment to help kids manage their emotions
- Starting Wellbeing Ambassador programs
Schools can choose how to use the money based on what their students need most.
Minister Foley stressed the importance of making sure children feel safe and supported at school. She said, “On my visits to schools, I see the difference it makes when wellbeing is a priority. Pupils have a better chance to make friends, do well, and reach their full potential.”
The grant will be given to schools for the 2024/2025 school year. Along with the money, schools will get advice on how to gather input from students and parents. This will help them create strategies that really work for their school community.
This initiative is part of a bigger effort to improve mental health support in Irish primary schools. While some schools are getting counselors, others are trying out this new approach with wellbeing teams and targeted funding. The goal is to find the best ways to support young students’ mental health and overall wellbeing.