What the Students thought...

“This morning was amazing, because we learnt about the outside. It taught me that being outside can help make my body and mind healthier.”

Martina Year 9

“The drama workshop was good, because we got to practical activities and spend time with my friends.”

Michael Year 8

“I really enjoyed planting the sunflowers seeds, and talking about our favourite outdoor spaces”

Mia Year 8

On Thursday 13^th May, as part of their leadership and mental health programme and in line with Mental Health Awareness Week in the community, class 12PB of ERC got an insight into homelessness. They went to the Farset Centre (homeless accommodation) and prepared sandwiches, hot food and refreshments for a night of homeless outreach. They visited Botanic, Stranmillis and the Holylands to engage with sections of the homeless community. They educated themselves on the challenges and obstacles faced by these people and shared their experiences throughout the night. The lads finished their night with a walk around Belfast City Centre to continue their outreach work. Next week 12PB will begin work on their mental health mural within the school that highlights coping mechanisms for young people and their mental health and will also signpost mental health agencies that young people can use in North Belfast if they ever feel the need to talk. The lads are a credit to the school and to themselves.

A massive thank you to Paul, Catherine, Roisin and Victor from the People's Kitchen Belfast for welcoming in and looking after our young people, and to Stephen Konrad and the Ardoyne Youth Club for the continued support and outreach work with 12PB this year. Finally, we are very proud of Mr Brennan, 12PB form teacher, for coordinating all of the outreach work for the class and for helping them to progress in ways they didn’t themselves think possible. The class are leaving us this year, with many moving on to Tech or apprenticeships – what better legacy to leave behind than their Mental Health Mural and great memories of the great achievements they’ve acquired this year.

As part of Mental Health Week 10MT have been connecting with nature! They have planted their own vegetables from seeds and today they planted them outside in their raised flower bed (donated by Antrim and Newtownabbey council).