A LIMERICK-based group that encourages students to have positive relationships in the classroom has launched a national initiative to ‘foster empathy, kindness and connection’ in schools.
Established by award-winning novelist Colum McCann in 2016, Narrative 4 is an empathy education organisation that has trained hundreds of teachers and youth workers to deliver a teaching method that fosters connection, empathy and encourages students to have positive relationships in the classroom.
Its latest initiative, the Empathy School Award, aims to recognise post-primary schools that promote empathy, kindness and connection among the school’s students and staff. Narrative 4 will be introducing the awards scheme to schools across the country to spread its positive message.
The charity also teaches young people social and emotional skills to help improve their wellbeing. In 2018, Narrative 4 won the Youth Mental Health Award with their innovative approach to youth mental health. It has also received recognition and support from organisations such as Rethink Ireland, the JP McManus Fund, the Ireland Fund, and Creative Ireland.
The Empathy Award has three levels of recognition for schools.
The Gold Award will go to schools with at least ten teachers who have trained in Narrative 4’s Empathy Education Online CPD. Other requirements include a School Empathy Charter and a ‘Walk and Talk’ Empathy Challenge. The silver and bronze awards have similar requirements, but with less time commitments.
Full details at: Narrative 4 Ireland – Social and Emotional Learning
