On Thursday 27th of March Portumna Community school hosted a Wellbeing Morning for First and Second year students. This delightful morning was well received by these two year groups and linked into the core values of the school while incorporating the Junior Cycle wellbeing program being delivered in the school.
The morning commenced with Dr Maureen Griffin who is Forensic Psychologist who spoke about how to avoid risks online. Her talk was informative and interactive. She focused on other areas such as Self-destructing Apps and how students can protect their mental health online. Maureen offered valuable advice on Screen time and creating a balance. Dr Griffin highlighted Behaviours online and the roles and responsibility students in our school play in this area. Through examples from her experience Dr Griffin spoke about Cyber bullying and actions students should take in this situation. Dr Griffin concluded with the Legal aspects and indeed the Digital age of consent.
Students enjoyed refreshments after this session which were well received in the school Gym.
The morning concluded with Mr Barry Heffernan. Mr Heffernan raised awareness about the importance of wellbeing, how to manage stress and indeed the resources which are available to support student’s Mental Health. Through his honest and genuine approach with the students, the first- and second-year students were able to relate this this. Mr Heffernan used experience through his own experiences and experiences in dealing with young people.
This was a very enjoyable morning for both students and staff and plenty of food for thought in areas moving forward. We would like to thank both our speakers on the morning for these valuable insights, advice and indeed resources for our student’s journey at Portumna Community school.
Huge thanks to Ms. Denise O’ Callaghan who organised this very successful event and also to Ms. Olivia Moylan and Mr. Michael Lynch for their assistance on the day.