R U OK Week – Using Ako Time as a vehicle to raise awareness around mental health.

At Villa Maria in Term 3, the College leaders organised ‘R U OK Week’ which was all about spreading happiness and promoting awareness around mental health. Each day had an activity for all girls to take part in. The activities were mainly held during Ako Time, which happens in House vertical groups. Instructions and information for Ako Teachers was shared on the Ako OneNote page which all teachers can access. We had Ako Time Tiktok challenges, whole school Zumba, mindfulness colouring, and a compliment wall. This was our way of showing girls tips to reduce stress and also the importance of taking time out to do what you like either through exercise, dancing, or just chilling out. Because ‘R U OK Week’ occurred the week before College exams we also decided to give away study packs to help girls better prepare themselves for exams. Finally, we ended the week with a student-led assembly followed by a whole school lunch with music and laughter.

Written by Eadaoin Roughan (Head Girl) & Isabela Manzano (Deputy Head Girl)