Adolescence is a time of many changes for teenagers, which can often lead to emotional ups and downs.  Schools are becoming increasingly aware of the need to help young people develop a range of skills to cope with difficult and stressful situations.  One of the ways that schools in NSW are addressing these issues is to establish effective mental health programs as part of the curriculum.

 ACE ("Adolescents Coping with Emotions") is a program that has been developed as a collaboration of the Department of Education and Training, Northern Sydney Health, and Macquarie University, Sydney. It is an early intervention, preventative program, part of a comprehensive mental health program in schools. ACE aims to teach adolescents a range of effective problem-solving and coping strategies, and increase their resilience to problems and difficulties. 

 ACE is run in small groups of approximately 8 students. The program runs for 8 weekly 90 minute sessions held during normal school hours. Groups are run by 2 Group Leaders: the School Counsellor, and an Adolescent Counsellor from the Community Health Service. The ACE program targets 13-15 year olds. Students are selected by questionnaires, and/or referrals from year advisors or school counsellor. Selection is based on who may benefit most from learning the strategies introduced in the program.