The impact of MindMatters recognition in NSW

The 2011 MindMatters Recognition Event appears to have had an impact on school motivation to continue to embed the MindMatters framework across schools in NSW. There are 39 registrations for an upcoming MindMatters Level One Introductory Workshop. Attendees include youth workers, district school counsellors and primary school staff. Of the registrations, 22 are from schools currently recognised as MindMatters schools, including Narara Valley High School, Lake Macquarie and Scone High Schools. These schools are clearly realising the value of sending ongoing contingents of staff to MindMatters training in order to keep progressing the understanding and action around mental health outcomes in their schools.

Of particular note is that a group of schools from the Riverina travelled to Narara Valley last year to talk to the principal Andrew Eastcott and teachers at the school about their work with MindMatters. This has led to a request from Young High School in the Riverina who are now keen to participate in a MindMatters Level Two Planning workshop.

The significant impact of being recognised as a MindMatters school and the importance of the continuing cycle of professional learning for teachers is held in high regard by the education profession.

February 2012