ColegauCymru is proud to mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, taking place between 12 - 18 May, by celebrating the vital work further education colleges across Wales are doing to support mental health and wellbeing.
This year’s theme, Communities, highlights the importance of safe, supportive environments for positive mental health - something that colleges help foster every day. Whether for learners, staff, or the wider community, creating a sense of belonging and connectedness is at the heart of college life.
Supporting Wellbeing Through Active Wellbeing
Through initiatives like our Active Wellbeing project, supported by Sport Wales, FE colleges are finding innovative ways to promote physical activity and wellbeing. Over 5,000 learners took part in Active Wellbeing activities during the 2023/24 academic year, helping to improve mental health outcomes and build stronger college communities.
Our work doesn't stop there. This spring, ColegauCymru hosted a series of regional Active Wellbeing Forums under the theme Thriving Environments, bringing together sector leaders to share good practice on preventative approaches to mental health through physical activity.
However, challenges remain. Colleges have seen a 40% rise in mental health referrals since 2022/23, placing additional pressures on services already stretched by tight budgets. Sustained, long-term funding is essential to ensure that colleges can continue to support learners and staff with their mental health and wellbeing.
Pembrey Multisport Event: A Celebration of Community and Wellbeing
As part of our celebrations, we are hosting a multi-sport duathlon event at Pembrey Country Park on 14 May 2025. Supported by a host of partners, this inclusive event will welcome around 400 participants from eight colleges across 14 campuses.
The event is a celebration of the inclusive spirit of FE in Wales, with over 40% of participants having additional learning needs. From independent living skills learners to elite competitors, the event offers everyone a chance to be active, build friendships, and feel part of a vibrant community.
Looking Ahead
The link between education, wellbeing, and long-term life outcomes is well established. By investing in preventative mental health initiatives today, we can help build a healthier, more resilient Wales for the future.
ColegauCymru will continue to champion the need for sustainable investment in mental health and wellbeing support across the FE sector - ensuring that learners and staff have the support they need to thrive.
As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, we are reminded that building strong, supportive communities is essential to good mental health. Our colleges are leading the way, creating environments where every learner and member of staff can feel supported, connected, and able to reach their full potential.
Further Information
Mental Health Awareness Week
12 – 18 May 2025
ColegauCymru Active Wellbeing Strategy
2020 – 2025
