It is part of the government’s £95 million plan to have a designated mental health lead in every school and college in England. The training is being run by MHFA England and funded by the Department of Health and Social Care.
The course aims to teach school staff to spot the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, and prepare them to provide support on a first aid basis and to guide pupils to further support, if and when this is needed.
The course also promotes the importance of “personal wellbeing and self-care”, teaching staff how to look after their own mental health and wellbeing.
Each school and college can take-up one free place on the course. The idea is that attendees will take on the role of “Youth MHFA Champions” in their schools. More information including a video (pictured) is available online.