St Mary's College, Dundalk

Pastoral Care

In accordance with the College mission statement we strive to create a supportive and caring ethos in St. Mary's College for each member of its school community.

Form Teachers

Each class has a Form Teacher, who meets the class formally once a week and who works closely with the Year Head to look after the needs of the students in the class group.

Year Heads

Each year group has a Year Head who, whenever possible, remains with that group until 6th year.

Pastoral Care Team

Other members of the Pastoral Care Team are the Chaplains, Guidance Counsellors, Learning Support Team, Deputy Principal and Principal.

Chaplaincy services

There are 2 Chaplains in the College and they assist in the co-ordination of religious education, faith development and the promotion of the Marist ethos in St. Mary's College. They liaise with all staff, the MEA, the Diocesan Advisor and local parishes in relation to faith formation. The chaplains organise liturgical events in the College and work with students, their parents/guardians and other members of the College community individually and/or in groups. A chaplaincy team of students assists the Chaplains with Morning Prayer, Chaplaincy Corner Newsletter, Thought for the Month, displays, liturgies and other faith development activities.

Special Education Needs

St. Mary's College is committed to the inclusion of all students in our school and endeavours to identify and meet Special Education Needs in as far as is reasonably possible. All students are encouraged to play an active role in College life and are challenged to realize an academic potential in line with their ability level. We have a dedicated Learning Support Team to look after and monitor the progress of students with special educational needs.

Guidance Counselling

The College employs two Guidance Counsellors. The work carried out by the Guidance Counsel team includes:

Assessment and orientation of 1st Year students
Organisation and administration of subject selection for 2nd year students
Administering aptitude tests and interest inventories for 5th year students
Individual consultation with senior students regarding career aspirations and third level choices
Co-ordinating career trips and hosting guest speakers

Parents and guardians are always most welcome to contact either member of the Guidance Counsel team should they wish.

Buddy System

St. Mary's College operates a 'Buddy System' for incoming First Year students. Individual Sixth year students mentor 4-5 new first year students to help them settle into their new school. The 6th years are trained for this role.

Rainbows/Spectrum Programmes

These programmes help young people deal with a significant change in their family due to death and/or separation.

School Completion Continuation Programme

This involves in-school support by a qualified youth worker which involves withdrawing students for one class period a week to help resolve their difficulties.