Marr pupils proud to 'Say It Out Loud'

Congratulations to Marr College in Troon for achieving the Say It Out LOUD Charter.

The charter was created by the South Ayrshire Youth Forum to ensure children and young people have a say on mental health and wellbeing actions within their school.

The Say It Out LOUD Panel was impressed with projects introduced at Marr, that encourage friendship and support.

Examples of the projects include pupil Mental Health Ambassadors who run drop ins where other pupils can go to access support.

The school has also developed lunch and afterschool clubs which bring young people together in a relaxed atmosphere.

A hub has been set up where young people can go if they are feeling stressed, and pupils have helped to create a range of supportive material on the school website.

The 'daily dozen' has become an important two-way communication channel between pupils and teachers. The head teacher regularly meets with young people to share views and discusses key aspects of school life.

The Say It Out LOUD Panel commented: "Marr College has demonstrated and evidenced great work to support mental health and wellbeing; a big well done to the school, in particular the Mental Health Ambassadors."

Marr Mental Health Ambassadors said: "Throughout the year we worked as a team towards achieving the charter. We concentrated on including the pupils of Marr College and hearing what they had to share in order to achieve a healthier school environment."

Councillor Stephen Ferry, Education Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "The Say It Out LOUD Charter was created by young people, for young people and it's making a big difference. There is a strong focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing in our schools and to date four schools have achieved the charter including Marr, with another 14 working towards it. I am very proud of all the young people and staff who have helped Marr College achieve this special charter."

George Doherty, Head Teacher at Marr College said: "I'm delighted that the hard work of our students and staff in placing mental wellbeing at the forefront of our practice has been recognised through achieving the Say It Out LOUD Charter.  As we continue to shine a light on wellbeing in our school and community, we look forward to working with our Mental Health Ambassadors to raise awareness of mental wellbeing and provide appropriate advice and support to our young people."

If you are interested and would like to find out more about the Say It Out LOUD Charter or the South Ayrshire Youth Forum, please contact lynn.dillon@south-ayrshire.gov.uk