The Trusts is thrilled to support a groundbreaking mental health programme being implemented in The West. This initiative, which will benefit over 20,000 primary and secondary students across 30 schools, is a significant step towards promoting mental wellbeing in our community.
The initiative uses the Pulse platform and is designed to monitor students’ mental, social, and physical wellbeing. By answering five simple questions, the software allows students to regularly assess their feelings and request help from trusted teachers and school leaders. The technology gives schools real-time insights into tamariki’s feelings, enabling early intervention and proactive support for those facing personal challenges.
Teachers benefit by gaining a deeper understanding of their students’ wellbeing. They can identify issues before they develop into behavioural problems, self-harm, or disengagement from learning. By providing a safe, private way to communicate, the platform reduces the stigma around seeking help and encourages students to express emotions they might otherwise keep quiet.
According to Donna Nee, Principal of Henderson North Primary, many children are impacted by their families’ social and economic challenges, which they often internalise. The platform allows students to reach out in a way that feels comfortable and familiar to them, particularly in a world where they are already accustomed to using digital tools.
Donna says that young people often feel reluctant to speak out due to cultural or family expectations. Discussing emotional struggles may not be encouraged or is seen as a sign of weakness. The anonymity and privacy provided by the Pulse platform offer students a safe space to ask for help without fear of judgment or repercussions. This approach is particularly beneficial for younger children, who may not yet have the vocabulary or confidence to express their feelings.
Funded by The Trusts, which contributed $80,000 for the pilot, the programme’s success could potentially lead to its expansion across more schools in The West. The Trust’s CEO, Allan Pollard, hopes the initiative will help students who might otherwise go unnoticed receive the support they need.’These kids have seen Covid, cyclones, floods and their parents struggle with the cost-of-living crisis,’ advises Allan. He says the platform is a timely and essential tool for addressing the growing mental health needs of our tamariki and rangatahi.
This exciting technology aims to transform how schools support their students, potentially paving the way for its adoption in schools nationwide.
