More than 230 schoolchildren across the Fermanagh and Omagh district have completed a six-week programme designed to boost emotional wellbeing and life skills.

The Learn, Educate, Advice and Develop (LEAD) initiative targeted year 7 and year 8 pupils in both primary and post-primary schools. A total of 78 year 7 pupils and 160 year 8 pupils took part.

The programme was a collaboration between the Fermanagh and Omagh Locality Planning Groups, the Children and Young People's Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) and the Western Trust’s Health Improvement, Equality and Involvement Department, through its Neighbourhood Renewal programme. Funding came from the Western Area Outcomes Group, the Police and Community Safety Partnership and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Sessions covered building resilience and self-confidence, developing healthy friendships, addressing bullying, and exploring online safety, healthy eating, vaping risks and financial literacy. Pupils also learned techniques to manage anxiety and emotions, including mindfulness exercises.

Mairéad Taggart, Health Co-ordinator for Neighbourhood Renewal at the Western Trust, described the project as an interactive and supportive initiative aimed at equipping young people with vital skills for adolescence. Dr Priscilla Magee, Locality Planning Coordinator with CYPSP, said the programme empowered young people by giving them practical tools to maintain their mental and emotional health and to make informed lifestyle choices. She said it also connected pupils with community support services.

Holy Trinity Primary School in Enniskillen hosted a celebration event to mark the conclusion of the programme.