Wellbeing

At Coláiste Cholmcille, we believe in a holistic approach to wellbeing by focusing on nurturing the whole student—academically, emotionally, socially, and physically. We recognise that wellbeing is central to learning and success, and aim to create a positive, supportive school culture where every student feels valued and included.

This approach combines curricular initiatives, such as the Junior Cycle Wellbeing programme, with whole-school practices that promote mental health, resilience, and positive relationships. Activities may include physical education, mindfulness, student voice initiatives, mentoring, and participation in programmes like Jigsaw’s One Good School.

Staff wellbeing and parental involvement are also key elements, ensuring a community-wide commitment to care and connection. Overall, a holistic approach helps our students develop lifelong skills for happiness, confidence, and personal growth, both in school and beyond.

Behaviour for Learning Programme

At Coláiste Cholmcille, we are committed to supporting every student in reaching their full potential, both academically and personally. As part of this commitment, our school runs a Behaviour for Learning (BFL) Programme, led by our Behaviour for Learning Teacher, in collaboration with the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).

The Behaviour for Learning Programme provides individualised support for students who may be experiencing challenges that impact their learning, behaviour, or engagement in school. Using the Check and Connect approach, the programme focuses on building positive, trusting relationships between the student and a key adult. Through regular check-ins, encouragement, and goal setting, students are guided to reflect on their progress, develop self-management skills, and strengthen their confidence and motivation to learn.

The programme benefits students by promoting positive behaviour, improved attendance, and greater engagement in school life. It also helps to nurture important skills such as resilience, communication, and problem-solving, empowering students to take responsibility for their learning and personal growth.

At Coláiste Cholmcille, we believe that with the right support and encouragement, every student can thrive. The Behaviour for Learning Programme is an important part of our inclusive ethos and our ongoing commitment to fostering a caring, respectful, and supportive school community.

Student Support Team

At Coláiste Cholmcille, we are committed to the holistic development and well-being of every student. Our pastoral care system supports students academically, socially, and emotionally, ensuring that they feel safe, respected, and empowered to thrive.

The Role of the Tutor

Each student is assigned a Tutor, who provides daily guidance and support. Tutors build strong, trusting relationships with students, monitor attendance and academic progress, and are often the first point of contact for any concerns. They play a vital role in creating a positive and caring classroom atmosphere.

The Role of the Year Head

Year Heads take overall responsibility for the well-being, discipline, and development of the students in their year group. They coordinate with Tutors, address behavioural and pastoral issues, support students through key transitions, and work closely with families to ensure a consistent and proactive approach to student welfare.

The Role of the Chaplain

The Chaplain plays a key role in nurturing the spiritual and emotional well-being of students and staff. Offering a welcoming and non-judgmental presence, the Chaplain provides pastoral counselling, leads school liturgies and reflection opportunities, and promotes a sense of community rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion.

The Role of the Guidance Staff

Our Guidance Counsellors assist students with personal, educational, and career-related decisions. They provide one-to-one counselling, lead wellbeing and life-skills programmes, and help students develop resilience, self-awareness, and informed plans for the future.

The Role of the Student Support Team

The Student Support Team (SST) is a collaborative group of pastoral, academic, and support staff who meet regularly to identify students who may need additional care. The SST coordinates interventions, tracks progress and works in partnership with parents and outside agencies to ensure every student’s needs are met effectively and compassionately.

The Role of the Home School Community Liaison (HSCL)

The Home School Community Liaison plays a crucial role in building strong relationships between the school, home, and wider community. The HSCL supports parents and guardians in engaging with their child’s education, encourages participation in school life, and helps break down barriers that may impact student attendance, engagement, or learning. By working directly with families, the HSCL fosters a shared approach to supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom.

Together, these dedicated roles form a comprehensive and responsive pastoral care system that places students at the heart of everything we do at Coláiste Cholmcille.

Partnership with Foróige

At Coláiste Cholmcille, we value strong connections with our local community and believe that collaboration enriches our students’ educational experience. One of our most important partnerships is with Foróige, Ireland’s leading youth organisation dedicated to empowering young people to reach their full potential and make a positive contribution to their communities.

Foróige works with young people aged 10–18 through clubs, projects, and programmes that promote personal development, leadership, citizenship, and social responsibility. Their work focuses on building confidence, fostering resilience, and helping young people develop important life skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Our close working relationship with Foróige provides Coláiste Cholmcille students with opportunities to take part in youth leadership programmes, personal development workshops, mentoring, and community-based initiatives. These experiences complement the work we do in school by encouraging students to explore their interests, build meaningful connections, and develop a sense of belonging and purpose beyond the classroom.

Through this partnership, we aim to support the holistic development of our students—helping them grow not only as learners, but as confident, capable, and socially responsible young people.