VIRTUAL WELL-BEING WEEK
WITH physical and mental well-being taking on an even greater importance in these tumultuous times, staff and students at Wexford CBS Secondary School were more determined than ever that their well-being week would go ahead as planned.
Given the limitations posed by Covid-19 restrictions, it had to be more of a virtual event this year, but everyone rowed in behind to make it a great success. The well-being committee led by Mrs Ann Barry had been working on a programme of events since September and managed to adapt it to a virtual world focusing on daily themes of ‘connect’, ‘be active’, ‘take notice’, ‘keep learning’ and ‘give’.
The week kicked off with a morning meditation from teacher Mrs Hayes to set the tone and students were encouraged to stay well and keep connected during these unprecedented times. PE teachers Mr Kehoe and Mr Colfer helped keep everyone in shape during the week with their daily five minute workouts at morning break, while guidance counsellor Ms Goff provided some relaxation techniques during her online chair yoga demo.
Students expertise were also called upon and TY student Quinton Kelly’s design skills greatly enhanced the online promotion of Well-Being Week.
There was a range of guest speakers from all walks of life over the week. A leader of global sales operations at Microsoft and graduate of the class of ‘92, Colin Browne spoke to first years about the importance of staying safe and well online. Wexford Hurling All-Star Dee O’Keeffe spoke to second and third years about the importance of self-care during the Covid-19 lockdown and Marie Casey-Breen, cancer survivor, Ironman competitor and motivational speaker, offered some words of wisdom for transition years.
Collette O’Doherty from the Spirit Group showed fifth years ways to self-connect at this time, while past pupil and Life Coach Damien Wade provided sixth years with words of encouragement as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
The highlight of the week was the publication of the Wexford CBS #staywellconnected videos edited by Mr Byrne which were released on social media pages daily. Students and staff members, past and present, sent in short video clips showing how they self care and stay connected and there were responses from all over the world from China to the USA
Organisers say that this year’s somewhat unusual Well-Being Week surpassed all expectations and gave everyone the opportunity to remain connected in these difficult times.