Data collection took place via 6 semi-structured focus groups (3 in each school) with 2-6 participants in each group. Semi-structured and participatory interview techniques were used following the focus group topic guide. Clear ground rules were outlined at the beginning of each session, followed by an ice-breaker activity unrelated to mental health. Activities and task-based approaches were used, including the production of posters summarising students’ views. Focus groups were conducted in person, audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Convenience sampling was used to recruit schools via email. Recruitment materials including emails and posters were provided to schools and interested Year-12 students were asked to complete a signup form to take part. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim with the assistance of an AI transcriber (Zoom 2025 AI transcriber). Interview transcripts were reviewed and amended for accuracy. Transcripts were anonymised, with names replaced by respondent ID and other potentially identifiable information for schools or students removed (indicated by square brackets). The posters produced by students were photographed and are included in the dataset.