MAYOS FIRST CHAMPION SCHOOL NAMED: SANCTA MARIA COLLEGE LOUISBURG 

It was an icy start to the monitoring day in beautiful Louisburg Co. Mayo on November 27th. The monitoring team were given a truly warm welcome to the school by the Sanctuary Committee and offered a warm cup of tea to start the day.

Shortly after 10am, we all gathered in the school’s prayer room for a welcome, introduction and a prayer service led by the students. The students began the day by lighting a candle symbolising Christ as the light of the world who guides us to be welcoming and inclusive.

We then had a short reflection from Principal Dr. Moran on the importance of being a welcoming community. She finished by stating that Sancta Maria College is a safe place for all “wherever you are from, whatever traditions you have, however you express yourself or however you learn, you are welcome here”

Some students from the Sanctuary Committee then gave an impressive presentation of their own testimonies regarding their Sanctuary journey and  the difference it has made to them and their school.

Peter began the presentation stating that starting the school as an international student was challenging but upon joining the School of Sanctuary Committee he felt like he truly belonged and decided to stay in Ireland to finish out his studies. He is particularly proud of his achievement of setting up a games and activities club.

Joy, the second speaker, reminded us that without diversity  life would be very boring and that the school celebrates and champions difference. 

 

Katelyn told us about the achievement of the SOS Committee in researching, drafting and implementing an anti racism policy in the school. 

Charlotte explained to us how the school has created safe spaces for students who may be feeling lonely or overwhelmed: such as The Well, The Sensory Room and the lunchtime SOS club.

 

Molly talked to us about the buddy system in the school to help isolated students make friends and feel safe. Molly also told us the difference SOS has made to her and that now she feels confident in speaking out if she sees injustice.

These are just some examples of the inspiring testimonies we heard from students who spoke with confidence, passion and from the heart 

 The monitoring team were then led to the school’s gym for the school’s  Annual Multicultural and Heritage Day. This event celebrates all the cultures, traditions and heritage that are present in the school community. We were treated to wonderful food, songs, dance and stories from all the different countries represented in the school.

After a short break , the team were taken on a tour of the school to witness some of the WOW (Wellness on Wednesday) events taking place. WOW happens when the school drops the timetable every Wednesday to allow the students to take part in some wellness activities, from yoga to music, sport to craft, there is something for every student to get involved in . It was a great way to end a very positive and uplifting experience in the school.

The monitoring team consisted of Sive O Connor ( SOS Coordinator), Martina Peyton ( Champion Teacher St.Nathy’s Ballaghadereen), Róisín Birch (University of Galway), Rachel Rose ( Mayo Integration Team), Reverend Suzanne Cousins ( Faith leader Westport), Jenny Morice ( Mobile Refugee support) and Rita Meagher (CEIST)

We want to thank all the students and staff of Sancta Maria College Louisburg for a beautiful and memorable day.