Irish launch of mdeducational foundation at Mayo school

Mount St. Michael Secondary School in Claremorris was the venue for mdeducational foundation’s inaugural launch in Ireland, a move that represents a pioneering step in Irish education.

Attended by Minister Dara Calleary and Aishah Akorede, Miss Universe Ireland 2023, the much-anticipated inauguration was dedicated to the 200-plus senior cycle students of Mount St. Michael, where mdeducational foundation announced the funding of Ireland's first Wellbeing Lead – a three-year salary funding that provides the school with a kickstart to their long-term wellbeing strategy.

Since identifying the increasing gap in support for post-16-year-old students, mdeducational foundation was set up to support and provide an environment that normalises student psychological fitness and resilience through early intervention.

mdeducational foundation provides educational establishments across the UK and Ireland with the opportunity to receive salary funding for the placement of a wellbeing professional to support their post-16 students.

Mount St Michael Secondary School alumni and supporter of mdeducational foundation, Ireland’s First Lady, Sabina Higgins, commented: “The work that the mdeducational foundation do, providing much-needed wellbeing support in schools, speaks volumes about the organisation's commitment to the health of young people.

“By focusing on the mental health of young minds through the placement of Wellbeing Leads, mdeducational foundation's support to those in need is making a profound difference in the lives of countless young people.”

Mrs. Higgins continued with a broader global perspective: “It is also vitally essential to recognise the global context within which we operate. Mental health plays a crucial role in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – the interconnected global goals that serve as a roadmap for a better and more sustainable future for all, reminding us of our shared responsibility to leave no one behind.

“mdeducational foundation's important work in advocating wellness for our young people resonates deeply with Goal Number 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote good wellbeing for all at all ages.”

Grace McGee, the newly appointed Mount St. Michael Wellbeing Lead – whose official start date is Monday, November 27 – shared her hopes for the upcoming three years.

She said: “The wellbeing hub is a space for the students to have their voices heard and find access to support. Young people can sometimes experience challenges and on occasion, some may feel lonely. A non-judgmental space and open conversation allows students to 'just be'.

“Students will receive tips and strategies to help them better navigate their wellbeing journey – a place where my door is always open.”

The educational sector does not have the funds to prioritise student wellbeing. Despite the urgency for additional support within this worsening education and wellbeing crisis, schools severely lack it.

Minister Dara Calleary, who addressed the students as a keynote speaker at the event, reflected on this, stating: “While mental health is something that we haven’t dealt with very well in Ireland, you’re really privileged to have the army of support and the army of love that will come with this programme.”

For mdeducational foundation’s co-founder, Miriam Dervan, their mission is simple: “For all post-16 students to feel supported in every aspect of their wellbeing, helping them on their journey to a brighter future. To reach and fund as many schools as possible, so that we can serve as many young people as possible.”