Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB)* has been awarded the Schools Section of the Open Minds Australia Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards for 2024.
The annual awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations working to reduce the stigma of and empower those living with mental illness.
ATCNB was recognised for its commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of its students through its Powered with Positivity student wellbeing program. This initiative addresses mental health risks in trade careers through positive psychology and a three-phase approach focusing on connection, growth and independence.
ATCNB Year 11 student Georgia said the program and its supportive environment helped her feel safe and understood. Mitchell, another Year 11 student, added, “Being part of the Powered with Positivity Program at our school has been a great learning experience.”
ATCNB Principal Brett Kavanagh emphasised the importance of mental health support in schools, “The work that all schools do in working with young people from prep through to Year 12, transitioning them into their pathways, is essential. At ATCNB, we’re particularly focused on ensuring our students in trade careers are equipped with the tools to manage their mental health. Our Powered with Positivity program demonstrates ATCNB’s commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for all our students,” Mr Kavanagh said.
ATCNB was recognised alongside other outstanding schools, including Agnes Water State School for their Smiling Minds program and Brisbane State High School for their WoW (Wheel of Wellbeing) Weeks.
Special recognition goes to ATCNB’s Guidance Officer, Leah Pollock-Grant, whose leadership has been pivotal in shaping the college’s journey. Over the past eight years, ATCNB has expanded from having a student wellbeing officer to a qualified Guidance Officer, broadened its Trade Support Centre, and introduced industry-specific support for its First Nations students and Women in Trades.
The college pledges to expand the Powered with Positivity Program for both students and staff in the coming years, ensuring mental health and wellbeing remain central to the student experience.
ATCNB is incredibly grateful for this recognition and looks forward to continuing to foster a community where every student feels safe, supported and empowered to succeed.
*Australian Trade College North Brisbane is part of the IntoWork Group.
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