Preparing for an extraordinary year in our schools

We are going through unprecedented times and our young people have experienced some of the biggest impacts.

Some, of course, will require mental health support over the coming months and, for them, it will be crucial that they see seeking help as a sign of bravery and not weakness. All will require understanding and teachers, as always, will be ready and willing to be their key supporters.

The challenges presented by the pandemic are considerable and yet they carry significant opportunity. We know we have a strong education system, the backbone of which is the commitment and dedication of teachers and all those staffing our schools. We know that a good response to the new reality will ultimately support better education, smaller class sizes, more holistic education, less exam focus, and more emphasis on wellness and mental health.

As this extraordinary school year begins, pupils and teachers are being asked to combat the real fear we all have about this virus and to return to a new school environment. All will require our full support and backup.

Alongside the challenges COVID-19 presents, the vital work schools are doing to build awareness and understanding of mental health needs to continue. SPMHS’ recently-launched #NoStigma campaign highlights that not experiencing stigma aids recovery and enhances wellness. The psychological stressors we will all experience as the new school year begins gives further emphasis to the vital mental health work schools are doing and need to continue to do.    

SPMHS, like other mental health organisations, is fully committed to doing all we can to help all those involved in the education system to transition and transform.

More importantly, we want to express our thanks and immense gratitude to all of you who are involved in the education system for your continued courage and commitment.

Seeing how our young people have responded over the last six months makes us as parents, teachers and supporters extremely proud. It gives us great hope for the future, a future where we have adjusted to our new realities and have reestablished the key things we value in our lives.