Mental Health First Aid for International Schools

Empower your community to support its mental health and well-being.

Why Mental Health Matters in International Schools

International schools are vibrant, diverse communities, but with that richness comes unique pressures. Students, staff, and families often navigate cultural transitions, high expectations, and the emotional strain of life far from home. These environments can be incredibly rewarding, but also emotionally complex.

By prioritising mental health, your school sends a powerful message: we see you, we support you, and we care. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training equips your community with the tools to spot early warning signs, respond with empathy, and create a culture where well-being is part of everyday life.

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Training Tailored for Your School Community

We offer certified MHFA training in English, designed with international school settings in mind. Whether your goal is to raise awareness or develop confident mental health responders within your team, we offer flexible training (online or in-person) options that fit your school’s needs.

Our courses are suitable for:

  • Teachers and school leaders

  • Student support teams and counsellors

  • Administrative staff and HR

  • Parents and caregivers

  • Student leaders (students may take part in training from the age of 14 and up depending on the course).

Training is engaging, practical, and built around real-life scenarios relevant to youth mental health and the international school context. Based in Frankfurt, Germany, we work across Europe and understand the international school culture from the inside out.

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Our Courses

Give your community the confidence and skills to take meaningful action, no matter where your school is located.

  • Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health: Level 1 Award (4hrs)
    Ideal for introducing key concepts across your school community (including parents and caregivers).

    Download course info (PDF)

  • First Aid for Youth Mental Health: Level 2 Award (1 Day / 6 Hours)
    Tailored for those supporting students and young people including teaching and administration staff. Also suitable for parents and caregivers.

    Download course info (PDF)

  • Supervising First Aid for Mental Health: Level 3 Award (2 Days / 12 Hours)
    Best suited for middle and senior leaders, safeguarding staff, and well-being leaders.

    Download course info (PDF)

These qualifications are UK-accredited under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and are internationally applicable.

The Mental Health First Aid approach was originally developed by MHFA Australia, and is now used in schools and workplaces around the world for its practical, evidence-based impact.

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Certification

Based in Germany, we are certified by Nuco Training in the UK, an accredited provider of the internationally recognised Mental Health First Aid program. This program was originally developed by Mental Health First Aid Australia, the organisation that pioneered this global movement in mental health education.

Our training is grounded in current research and best practices, ensuring sessions that are not only informative but also engaging, interactive, and practical. We use real-life scenarios and provide tools participants can immediately apply.

After successful completion of the Award, you will be certified for 3 years.

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Gold seal with the text 'nuco approved instructor' encircling 'nuco' in the center.
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FAQ’s

  • No, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is not therapy. It’s a skills-based training program that teaches participants how to recognise signs of mental health challenges, provide initial support, and guide individuals toward professional help if needed. Think of it as the mental health equivalent of physical first aid.

  • MHFA is a globally recognised program that has been successfully implemented in over 25 countries, each adapting the training to their local context.

    We also tailor our workshops to the unique cultural, linguistic, and organisational needs of your region, offering training in English, German, and French.

  • MHFA training is for anyone who wants to support the mental well-being of their community. No prior experience or knowledge is required - just a willingness to learn and make a difference.

  • The training is best conducted in-person. Reach out to us to discuss online and hybrid options.

  • Yes, participants who complete the MHFA course will receive a certificate of completion from the program, recognising their new skills as a Mental Health First Aider. The certificate is valid for 3 years.

  • These courses are regulated under the UK’s RQF system. Roughly, Level 1–3 qualifications correspond to EQF Levels 2–5, which align with various vocational qualifications in Europe. While these are UK-regulated, the core skills and frameworks taught are internationally recognised and applicable across borders.