Created by students, for students, the toolkit offers a range of hands-on resources to help learners manage stress, find moments of calm, and build resilience.
Each kit includes strategy cards with simple, effective techniques that can be used both in the moment and as ongoing support.
To ensure accessibility, the toolkits have been placed in classrooms and key locations across DCG sites, including Learning Support Base Rooms.
By embedding wellbeing support into everyday learning environments, the initiative empowers both students and educators to foster a positive and supportive atmosphere.
The Creative Media Level 3 students played a pivotal role in designing the toolkit following a request from Mental Health Lead Professionals at DCG.
The concept was to develop a physical first-aid-style kit containing a variety of resources and activities to help students manage challenges related to their mental health.
These activities are grouped into four key themes: Create, Calm, Positivity, and Resilience.
In addition to the physical toolkit, students are also working on a prototype for an interactive digital version, offering further accessibility and support for all students across the college.
To ensure effective implementation, teachers, trainers, and assessors are being trained in how to use the toolkit, familiarising themselves with its contents and the support it provides.
The impact and engagement with the toolkit will be monitored via a QR code included on the side of the box, allowing the college to track usage and effectiveness.
Jill Hounslow-Eyre, Resilience Co-ordinator at Derby College Group, highlighted the significance of the initiative:
“Many students benefit from sensory tools during times when they might be feeling stressed or anxious, and having these available in the classroom and other key locations will be very useful.
“The takeaway strategy cards provide an invaluable opportunity for students to help themselves and take control of how they are feeling.
“The Mental Health First Aid Kit is a great addition to support students at Derby College group.”
This student-led initiative has been guided and supported by a dedicated team of professionals, including:
- Catherine Guerrero – Team Manager for Teaching and Learning (Project concept and direction)
- Daniel Bochenski – Team Manager for Creatives (Student cohort and project design)
- Laura Spivey – Inclusion and Support Co-ordinator (Design support and panel judge)
- Jill Hounslow-Eyre – Resilience Co-ordinator (Panel judge and designer of resilience cards)
- Robert Bamford – Director of Health, Safety & Environment (Judge and advisor)
“The Mental Health First Aid Toolkit was developed to provide students with practical, accessible support when they need it most.
“By integrating wellbeing resources into everyday learning spaces, we’re empowering students to take control of their mental health in a proactive and positive way.
“It’s been incredible to see our students play such a key role in designing a resource that will benefit so many of their peers.” Commented Catherine Guerrero, Team Manager for Teaching and Learning.
By combining student creativity with professional expertise, the Mental Health Toolkit is a significant step in continuing to foster a supportive, inclusive, and mentally healthy learning environment at Derby College Group.
