UL to conduct research on wellbeing supports for migrant students in Irish secondary schools

A NATIONAL survey invites post-primary schools across Ireland to take part, aiming to explore the support systems in place for migrant students in post-primary education. 

The survey, developed through a collaboration between the School, Child, and Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Lab (SCY-Lab) at the University of Limerick and Narrative 4 Ireland, aims to gather valuable insights into the experiences of migrant students and the resources available to support their wellbeing in schools.

To officially launch this initiative, a national webinar will be held on April 29, bringing together educators, policymakers, and researchers to discuss the survey’s objectives and how schools can participate.

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This webinar will describe the context for the research and feature a panel discussion with education experts, youth representatives, and migrant support professionals including Dr Jennifer McMahon, Associate Professor Psychology; University of Limerick, Dr James Lawlor, Narrative 4 Ireland Director, Ahmed Hassan Mohamed, Doras, Community Sponsorship Support, and a member of the Youth Advisory Panel guiding this research project.

With increasing migration to Ireland, schools play a key role in fostering inclusive and supportive environments for young people from diverse backgrounds. 

This study seeks to understand the challenges faced by adolescent migrant students (particularly girls) and their teachers, with the ultimate goal of designing a school-based intervention to promote their wellbeing, sense of belonging, and overall integration.

“We want to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, feel supported and included in their schools,” said Dr Jennifer McMahon, lead researcher and founder of SCY-Lab at the University of Limerick.

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“This survey is an opportunity for schools to have their voices heard and to contribute to a national conversation on how we can better support migrant students.”

Schools can get involved by attending the national webinar on April 29 to learn more about the survey and its importance, and by completing the survey, with all post-primary schools in Ireland receiving access to the survey link following the webinar.

Participation is voluntary, and all responses will remain confidential. 

Registration is available here.