Hong Kong provides psychological support to students in fire-hit areas

Educational activities were quickly resumed so that children's lives were not disrupted.

Located in the area where a serious fire that killed hundreds of people caused injuries, the Tai Po Baptist Public School (TPBPS) in Hong Kong, China, has been closed for more than a week. Students have been assigned to the nearby Tai Po Public Primary School or NTWJWA Grace Christian Memorial Primary School.

The Hong Kong Education Bureau said its main objective is to help students return to their normal learning routine as soon as possible, while ensuring they receive adequate academic and psychological support. This is because students being absent from school for too long and not having anyone to share the incident with can have a major impact on their mental health.

During the first two weeks, TPBPS coordinated with area schools to provide in-person learning in small groups, combined with learning activities at multiple temporary locations. Additionally, weekend physical education, music , and science classes were also held to maintain children’s morale and stability.

Students are encouraged to share their feelings and negative experiences with teachers, school psychologists and their families. After they have stabilized their studies, the Education Office will coordinate with the Health Office to organize psychological counseling sessions for them.

Some schools, such as Wong Shiu Chi Secondary School, have set up a fund to support students and staff whose homes were destroyed in the fire, to help them get back on their feet. Despite the challenges, schools in Tai Po are working closely together to ensure safety, maintain quality education for students, and help them overcome the psychological trauma of the tragedy.

However, not all parents are completely reassured. Some expressed concerns about returning to in-person learning too soon, saying that teachers and students are still under great psychological pressure. On the contrary, many other families believe that changing the learning environment helps children temporarily leave the traumatic atmosphere and recover more quickly. School social workers have also supported by providing free uniforms, books and school supplies.

The Education Bureau has pledged additional support to schools in the area with a HK$100,000 subsidy for each primary and secondary school, and HK$50,000 for kindergartens. Mental health talks for teachers and parents have been launched to equip the education community with skills to care for affected students.

“Maintaining a stable school schedule is essential to prevent students from falling into a prolonged depression. Being with friends and teachers is a way to help them regain their daily rhythm,” said Chu Wai-lam, president of the New Territories School Principals Association.

According to SCMP

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/hong-kong-ho-tro-tam-ly-cho-hoc-sinh-vung-chay-post759265.html