Trade college wins mental health award

Published 5:00am 23 October 2024

Words by Moreton Daily

Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB) has been recognised in the Schools Section of the Open Minds Australia Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards for 2024.

The annual awards 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.

The initiative addresses mental health risks in trade careers through positive psychology and a three-phase approach focusing on connection, growth and independence.

Year 11 student Georgia says the program and its supportive environment helped her feel safe and understood.

Fellow Year 11 student Mitchell adds: “Being part of the Powered with Positivity Program at our school has been a great learning experience”.

Principal Brett Kavanagh says the work all schools do in working with young people from Prep through to Year 12, in helping “transitioning 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,” he says.

“Our Powered with Positivity program demonstrates ATCNB’s commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for all our students.”

ATCNB was recognised alongside other outstanding schools, including Agnes Water State School for its Smiling Minds program and Brisbane State High School for its WoW (Wheel of Wellbeing) Weeks.

The Trade College’s Guidance Officer Leah Pollock-Grant leadership has been pivotal in shaping the college's journey.

During 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 students and staff in the coming years, ensuring mental health and wellbeing remain central to the student experience.