Gateway Sixth Form College has achieved Gold status for the Schools’ Mental Health Award from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence and Leeds Beckett University.
The College is proud to receive the award in recognition of the work undertaken to promote mental health and wellbeing for staff and students. It is committed to ensuring the environment is positive and open and that staff and students feel well supported during any difficult periods that they may be experiencing.
Su Peters, Head of School and the project lead commented,
“Good mental health and wellbeing of staff and students is central to the work that is done throughout the College and we are always striving for ways to reflect on the impact of that work”.
“This is key to ensuring successful progression for students because if their social and emotional health and wellbeing is secure, they are well equipped to manage their physical and mental health and in turn, help their academic progress. Around 12 months ago, we decided to work with Leeds Beckett University and the Carnegie Centre of Excellence. The framework they provided has helped us to create a whole College approach to mental health development.”
“After carrying out an initial self-audit reflecting on the work we already did, we created an action plan and continued improving the support we provide across the College, whilst embedding new initiatives.”
“During the year, we collected evidence of the work that we are doing: from the Principal and Governors’ vision; in the classroom; the pastoral and support teams; and student led initiatives. This evidence shows that we have a deep commitment to the excellent practice that takes place, making mental health and wellbeing a part of our core business.”
The Gold Schools’ Mental Health Award is the highest level of achievement given to schools and colleges who have demonstrated that they have exemplary practice across their organisation and can show sustained impact in all eight competencies. This is a very exciting achievement and places Gateway College as one of the leading colleges nationally.