News

John Ruskin College - "I Am" Project

John Ruskin College in South Croydon is proud to announce the “I Am” Project, a new initiative in which the College is working in partnership with Croydon Communities Partnerships against Trauma. The project was first launched at the beginning of the January term and focused on bringing awareness to topics like trauma, mental health, and wellbeing. Students from the College could come to our new safe space groups after the College Day to speak up about their thoughts and opinions whilst also tackling other important issues.

Megan, a JRC student said:

“There are lots of different activities to do. It’s really interesting and no one will judge what you say.”

Part of the project is “Good for Girls”, a friendly and fun workshop aimed at giving young women the skills needed to improve self-care and self-awareness and promote healthy habits physically and mentally. Professionals from Croydon Community have been working with our students to give them useful tools to help develop a positive wellbeing. Students have worked on exercises like writing diary entries, discussing topics about mental health and making healthy homemade snacks.

JRC students creating health homemade snacks

Felicity, a student who regularly attends the “Good for Girls” sessions commented:

“I like coming to the sessions because it helps with building my confidence and the staff are wonderful. We also get free food!”

“Good for Girls” runs every Monday from 16:30 – 18:30pm. JRC also hosts boxing sessions every Tuesday 16:30 – 18:30pm, run by a boxing coach and youth worker. The boxing sessions encourage students to stay active whilst actively talking about their mental health.

The “I Am” Project has seen a great turnout throughout the first part of term and has positively impacted our students.

If you would like to get involved, come and see Karyn Thomas in the LRC to complete an application form.