“Wellbeing” at Presentation Community College is a whole-school endeavour that:
Wellbeing is not confined to one subject or programme; rather, it is embedded throughout school life.
1. Wellbeing in the Curriculum at Presentation Community College
Junior Cycle: Wellbeing is actively supported through the Junior Cycle curriculum (1st, 2nd and 3rd year), where one of the eight key principles is wellbeing itself. This principle ensures that learning experiences in subjects and short courses promote physical, emotional, social and mental wellbeing. Key curriculum components contributing to wellbeing include:
These subjects/short courses help students build life skills such as communication, self-management, healthy decision-making, empathy and resilience.
Senior Cycle (Transition Year, 5th and 6th year) : Senior Cycle SPHE builds on the learning of Junior Cycle and focuses on topics such as healthy lifestyle and relationships, consent, emotional awareness and preparation for life after school. Guidance lessons provide support for students to make informed decisions about studies, courses and careers after school. The guidance counsellor and school chaplain are available to support students to maintain their wellbeing during these senior years.
2. Whole-School Approaches to Wellbeing at Presentation Community College:
A. School Culture and Environment
Our Vision: To be a caring supportive school where all are valued and encouraged to learn and explore, where people feel they belong and are challenged to perform to the best of their abilities”.
Wellbeing is evident where students feel they belong, are respected, supported and part of a community. At our school we foster this through:
B. School ethos (City of Dublin ETB):
Wellbeing in our school is fostered through a shared ethos, that emphasises the values of respect and care while aiming for high standards in teaching and learning. Our school community provides opportunities for all of our students to grow and flourish both academically and personally.
C. Student Support Team
Our Student Support Team meets weekly. Senior leadership, year heads, guidance counsellor, special education coordinators, school chaplain and site psychologist of City of Dublin ETB, coordinate support and interventions for students who need them.
D. Promoting Student Voice & Participation
The Student Council at Presentation Community College is the representative student body that voices students’ opinions on matters related to their school experience, communicates and collaborates with the principal and deputy principal when there is change and development and organises activities for students to enhance their wellbeing at school. Giving students a voice in school life aligns with the sense of belonging we aim to achieve for students. Additionally, participation in school lunch-time and after school clubs, activities, sport and cultural events are all key elements of the school experience that help form a healthy connection with the school.