Students want to tell their teachers something important, and Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) is helping them do it.
They want to “teach their teachers” how to speak to them about their mental health – and a new BCE program is ensuring this happens.
The More2Me professional learning package for secondary school educators is aimed at sharing the unique student perspective and effective ways to support student mental health and wellbeing through a variety of resources.
The program, which features six videos featuring BCE secondary students talking from their own and other’s perspectives, is being launched by BCE during Mental Health Week 2022 (8-15 October).
BCE Manager of Employee Relations and Student Protection Colin O’Neill said the program celebrates the powerful role educators play in reducing the stigma of mental illness, providing support, and promoting the wellbeing of all students.
“You’re never too young to make a difference and help break the stigma of mental health,” he said.
“More2Me helps educators understand more about our students’ lived experiences and what it’s like being a young person.
“In turn, it also helps students understand that they are more than just learners.
“Throughout this Mental Health Week, BCE schools will open channels of conversation talking about important issues affecting our students and empowering them to live out their full potential inside and outside of the school gates.”
Although More2Me will be launched and championed throughout Mental Health Week, it will be available for educators within BCE schools year-round.
“Creating safe learning environments for students and creating a sense of belonging is critical to learning,” said Colin.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death in Australians aged 15 to 49 years of age, and BCE is working with students across our 146 schools to reduce the stigma of mental illness, recognise the early signs of students struggling, provide initial support, and connect students to additional supports.
“I am incredibly proud to see BCE students co-create the More2Me campaign as a result of our 2021 student-led event Festival of Ideas, providing students with the opportunity to speak directly with BCE Executives about matters that are important to them, like mental health.
“BCE’s Festival of Ideas empowers students to listen and learn from each other, work collaboratively, and take responsibility for their education, as well as discuss their ideas for their school within a diverse group of young people.”
Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in Australia. If you need help now, call:
For more information about More2Me click here.
About Queensland Mental Health Week
Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW) is an annual awareness week that aims to shine a spotlight on individual and community mental health and wellbeing.
Established in 2018, the Student Voice Consultant Team consists of over 20 secondary students from across BCE’s 146 schools. Their vision: BCE is a community of schools where students and staff work cohesively to create a student focused education system that empowers students to shape and enrich our world.