All set to raise the Amber Flag, promoting positive mental health at St Clare’s NS in Ballyjjamesduff under the direction of school Principal, Karl McCartin. Others in the picture include (from left): Cllr Trevor Smith, chairman of Ballyjamesduff MD; Deputy Brendan Smith; Seamus Greene, chairman of the School Board of Management; Karl McCartin, principal; Tamara Nola, Director of Communications and Advocacy St Patrick’s Mental Health Services; Amanda McArdle, Walk in My Shoes Campaign Manager; Amy McGahern and Sarah Lee, teachers on the Wellbeing Committee; Maria Dolan Brady, and Paul Gilligan, CEO, St Patrick’s Mental Health Services. PHOTOS: Sean McMahon

Spelling it out with pebbles

Amber flag raised at St Clare’s NS

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St Clare’s National School marked World Mental Health Day last Friday, October 10, with a vibrant Wellbeing Ce lebration Day, highlighting the school’s commitment to f ostering positive mental health, inclusivity, and kindness within its community.

The celebration brought together pupils, parents, staff, and special guests for a morning of performances, speeches, and the official launch of the school’s new ‘Positivity Pebbles Garden. “Smile”, “be positive”, “be kind” are the encouraging messages spread around the school grounds – words formed with pebbles, which were each individually decorated by the school’s students.

The day began with a lively display of creativity from the children, as students from various classes performed raps, songs, and poems centred on themes of wellbeing, gratitude, and positivity. The performances drew warm applause from a packed hall filled with parents, local representatives, and special guests.

Principal Karl McCartin acknowledged the importance of the occasion in reminding people to take care of their minds, hearts, and one another.

“Here in St Clare’s, every smile we share and every act of kindness helps create a school where everybody belongs.”

Mr McCartin highlighted the school’s recent national achievement - winning the Primary School Category in the 2024/25 Mission Possible School Achievement Awards, part of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services’ Walk in My Shoes campaign. As part of the prize, St Clare’s received €1,000 to fund a wellbeing initiative of their choice.

“Our Positivity Pebbles Garden reflects our school’s commitment to mental health, wellbeing, diversity, and celebrating individuality,” Mr McCartin said. “It’s a visual reminder that every one of us adds something special to our school community.”

The event also saw the raising of the Amber Flag, a national symbol awarded to schools that actively promote positive mental health. After an ear deafening countdown from the pupils, the flag was hoisted to cheers and applause.

Among the guests were Deputy Brendan Smith (FF), Senator Pauline Tully (SF) and Cllr Trevor Smith (FG), who each praised the school’s leadership and community spirit.

Deputy Smith commended the school for translating wellbeing strategies into real-life practice: “Oftentimes we talk about programmes in textbooks or policies, but here we see them being lived out. The leadership shown by the principal, staff, and parents is inspiring.”

Senator Tully encouraged the pupils to continue valuing themselves and others: “You’re all unique and important. Looking after your own wellbeing and caring for those around you is one of the most valuable lessons you can learn.”