Teenagers at Mary Immaculate High Roman Catholic High School in Cardiff are receiving special support through a unique programme called The Bridge. The programme aims to address a variety of issues such as pressure at home, social anxiety, bullying, and anger management that can impact students’ school lives. In response to the rise in mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic and social media pressures, the school’s intervention programme has become increasingly vital.
The Bridge acts as a vital link between home and school by offering counselling, mental health nurse appointments, and a safe space for students to unwind. The school’s newly opened Churchill Centre wellbeing hub houses The Bridge, providing students with a calm environment where they can receive tailored support. Through interventions like therapy sessions, chats with mental health first aiders, and interactions with music and dog therapists, students are finding the help they need to navigate their challenges.
One student, Karmin Junior Richards-Borg, opened up about his journey to manage anger issues and improve his school experience with the support of The Bridge. Other students have also shared their stories of overcoming obstacles such as school anxiety, bullying, and social struggles through the programme. The supportive environment created by The Bridge has empowered these teenagers to seek help without fear of judgement.
The head of The Bridge, Nadia Yassien, highlighted the significant impact of the programme on students’ mental health and wellbeing. Collaborating with external agencies and professionals, The Bridge offers a range of resources and services to support students in their emotional and mental health journeys. The positive outcomes, including improved attendance rates and students’ success stories, underscore the essential role that wellbeing support plays in enhancing students’ educational experiences at Mary Immaculate High.