2025 Mental Health Week events – Ipswich Special School

Queensland Mental Health Week 2024: School Celebration Overview

This year marked the third consecutive celebration of Queensland Mental Health Week at our school, held during Week 3 (20–24October) to accommodate the senior school camp. In alignment with the Queensland Department of Education’s Staff Wellbeing Framework and Student Learning and Wellbeing Framework, I coordinated a week-long program centered on the five key areas of wellbeing, with a specific focus each day.

The event was designed to promote mental health for all, foster community connections, and highlight the importance of holistic wellbeing. Highlights from the week included:

Monday – Professional Awareness and Safety

• Guest speaker Lynn Cowie McAlister, Organiser – Metropolitan West Logan, Queensland Teachers’ Union, presented on Occupational Violence (8:00–8:30 AM, A Block Staff Room).

• Staff were invited to connect over coffee, with a coffee van available from 8:00–11:30 AM.

Tuesday – Staff Wellbeing and Support

• A Staff Wellbeing Expo brought together multiple organisations providing information and support around financial and health wellbeing. Stallholders included:

  • QSuper / Australian Retirement Trust – Anna Cotton & Ronda Lewis

  • QBank – Grant Spooner (Confirmed)

  • Medibank – Megan Kanofski (Confirmed)

  • Remserv – Carolyn Boyd (Confirmed, catering provided for 120 people)

  • TUH Health Fund – Shane Jennings (Confirmed)

  • Union Shopper – Peter Bennett (Confirmed)

  • Switch4Schools – Phil (Confirmed)

• The expo was held from 8:00–11:30 AM across G Block parking and the Terra Cotta space.

Wednesday – Creativity and Mindfulness

• Students engaged in a mindful colouring-in competition within their own classrooms, promoting focus, creativity, and self-regulation.

Thursday – Social Connection and Gratitude

• Staff were invited to participate in a shared afternoon tea, bringing a plate to share as a way to foster positive connections and build team culture.

Friday – Active Engagement and Student Wellbeing

• Ipswich Basketball facilitated an all-day skill clinic, encouraging physical activity, teamwork, and positive mental health through sport.

This event was a valuable opportunity to connect with our wider school and local community while supporting the wellbeing of both staff and students. It continues to grow each year, with strong engagement and positive feedback highlighting its impact on school culture and collective morale.