In Ballinteer Community School, our students are supported through our Pastoral Care System. Student support is delivered both inside and outside of the classroom to improve the student experience in our school. Our students are supported at both staff and peer level.
Peer Supports
Tiered Leadership Programme
Our Tiered Leadership Programme involving Transition Year Students (TY Peer Leaders), Fifth Year Students (Mentors) and Sixth Year Students (Prefects) incorporates a mentoring element.
These students are involved in various activities throughout the school year which support younger students, increase engagement and retention, and offer opportunities to develop leadership and communication skills.
This is done through positive role modelling, leadership activities and regular meetings with specific class groups.
View Tiered Leadership Programme
Student Council
The student voice is a key aspect of our support system. Every class in the school has designated Class Reps who represent the student body on the Council.
Class Reps normally wear badges so they are easily identified by students who may need support or assistance.
Staff Supports
Subject Teacher
Each subject teacher helps students with that subject area. Students can approach their teacher during class, after class, or through their journal if they need support.
Subject teachers are the first step on the ladder of referral.
Special Needs Assistant (SNA)
SNAs may be present in class to help students with everyday tasks including schoolwork, organisation and social skills.
Any student can ask an SNA for help.
SEN Staff & Team Teaching
Sometimes students benefit from having two teachers in the classroom. Students can seek support from either teacher.
SEN staff also oversee learning support classes and Reasonable Accommodations for State Examinations.
Tutor
Each class is assigned a Tutor who supports students pastorally, academically and behaviourally.
Tutors help develop positive relationships with students while encouraging high standards and positive engagement with school life.
Tutors meet students each morning during registration where roll call and announcements take place.
View Tutor Policy
Student Development Officer
Each year group is assigned a Student Development Officer who works alongside Tutors, Deans and Guidance Counsellors.
They encourage students to reach their full potential by putting support structures and interventions in place where needed.
Chaplain
The Chaplain provides religious, spiritual and emotional support to students.
Appointments can be arranged by calling to the Chaplain’s office. Our Chaplain is Ms Kelly.
Guidance Counsellor
Guidance Counsellors support students with careers, college pathways and personal wellbeing.
Students may speak with Guidance Counsellors individually about any concerns they may have.
Our Guidance Counsellors are Mr Joyce and Ms McManus.
View Guidance Information
Year Head
The Year Head oversees the pastoral, academic and behavioural needs of an entire year group with the support of Tutors.
HSCLO (Home School Community Liaison Officer)
The HSCLO works closely with parents and guardians to support school attendance, participation and engagement.
View HSCLO Information
School Completion Coordinator
This programme supports students who may be at risk of early school leaving.
Additional supports may include homework club, after-school activities and mentoring supports.
Jane Rooney is our School Completion Coordinator and she is assisted by Joe Dunne.
View School Completion Information
Principal / Deputy Principal
The Principal and Deputy Principal oversee the running of the school and liaise with all staff as the final steps on the ladder of referral.