Bill to train teachers on mental health first aid

 

A local Senator is to lead a a debate on his Bill that would see teachers trained in occupational first aid and mental health first aid.
The First Aid and Mental Health in Schools (Initial Teacher Training) Bill 2018 has been brought forward by Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Education, Senator Robbie Gallagher from Co Monaghan.

The Bill places a requirement on all trainee teachers to complete training in occupational first aid and mental health first aid before they take up a post.
“Being primary school teacher now involves so much more than day to day lesson plans and teaching. Mental health awareness and well-being is a major issue and many teachers are concerned that they do not have the training or skills to deal with the problems that are arising,” said Senator Gallagher, who has engaged with teachers on the structure of the Bill and he hopes will address the “majority of issues” they have brought to his attention.

The level of training would ultimately be decided by the Education Minister, in consultation with the teaching unions and relevant groups.
“We need to ensure that our teachers are fully equipped to deal with the challenges facing them and that they in turn feel that they are getting the necessary support to cope with these demands.”
Sen Gallagher added: “I believe that this legislation is the first step in a series of measures which are needed to train teachers to deal with new and emerging problems which they are being presented with in school. I look forward to next week’s debate and I hope that the Bill will be supported across the house.”