We are all aware of the value of time and investing time into what really matters. At Galway Technical Institute (GTI ) further education college, every student is valued and that is why the SLÁINTE programme was launched this week, by past pupil of GTI and now Mayor of Galway Mike Cubbard.
The aim of the programme is to develop a whole school approach to promote wellbeing which includes the development of social and emotional competence for students. GTI staff are committed to helping students grow in confidence and self-belief throughout the year. This programme is in line with the Department of Education & Skills' promotion of wellbeing for students.
Principal at GTI, Geraldine Gibbons, is hugely supportive of this initiative. "We are delighted to endorse this and recognise it as part of our learning culture," she said. "We value these types of activities just as importantly as the vocational and academic journeys our students take."
In this light, experts from a variety of care and support backgrounds will share their knowledge with students through a variety of talks, activities, and workshops to raise awareness of minding mental and physical health. Teachers and students within the college through projects for applied learning (PAL ) will also offer free services and activities, eg, beauty and hair treatments, a healthy eating guide, and outdoor trips to Petersburg Adventure Centre. These trips help students bond and, more importantly, combat the isolation that can frequently affect students making the transition for home life to college.
Finally, the inaugural GTI LGFA ladies' football team was launched by Galway county chairperson LGFA Betty Hernon and Connacht Young Player of the Year Ellen Power. The emphasis is on participation and fun and positive student wellbeing. More details of all events are available at www.gti.ie
