Ss Peter and Paul JNS

INTRODUCTION TO OUR AMBER FLAG PROJECT

We are very excited to announce that here at SS Peter and Paul JNS we are embarking on a new adventure. Following on from the success of the  Active School Flag Initiative, we are now taking on the challenge of obtaining an Amber Flag.

The Pieta Amber Flag Initiative recognises the individual efforts of primary and secondary schools, youth reach, third level institutions, community groups, clubs and companies to create healthy, inclusive environments that support mental well-being. (Pieta) For more information on the fantastic work Pieta are involved in, visit; www.pieta.ie

In 2019, the Department of Education and Skills and the Health Service Executive jointly launched Well-Being in Primary Schools- Guidelines for Mental Health Promotion.These guidelines aim to promote mental health and well-being in primary schools.

It is recognised in these guidelines that positive mental health and well-being enables young people to lead fulfilling lives. Home and family are recognised as the primary source of nurturing and support for children. However, mental health and well-being are recognised as everyone’s concern and involves the whole school community, parents/guardians and others involved in day to day school life. Positive mental health for children is part of their overall health and is inextricably linked with well-being.

In order to promote positive mental health and well-being at SS Peter and Paul J.N.S., we have decided to take part in the Amber Flag Initiative. This involves the whole school community coming together in order to create a safe, positive and healthy attitude towards our general physical and mental health and well-being. We have some great ideas on how to do this:

• Student Council-click here to see this year's representatives
  

• Well being policy for school
• Rainbow Dress Up Day
• Wellness Wall & Eco Garden
• Wellness Week
• Create an Amber Flag notice board in the hall with a positive ‘thought for the week’
• Holistic activities undertaken through the SPHE and PE strands of the curriculum
• Team building activities
• Buddy Benches around the school
• Student Shout Outs on the Classroom Doors

In order to undertake all these activities we have formed an Amber Flag Committee. This committee is led by staff and student council representatives coordinating this new initiative.

We would really welcome any ideas and suggestions you may have which could be incorporated into the activities already listed. Likewise, if any parent is willing to share their skills and talents with us in terms of gardening, creative art, music, meditation, mindfulness, fitness, healthy eating, etc. please email the school. We acknowledge and appreciate the knowledge and skills you all have which may help us create a positive mental health and well-being environment here at SS Peter and Paul JNS.