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The School Completion Programme, Roscrea 2000, the RAY Youth Diversion Programme and Colaiste Phobal joined ranks again this summer to deliver the ‘Transferring from Primary to Secondary School Programme’. The purpose of this initiative is to support children from the local primary schools who are transferring to the Colaiste. In order to help alleviate anxieties and concerns with becoming part of a bigger school, being unfamiliar with the physical layout of their new school and meeting new class mates, the programme has been tailor made to address these issues.
The programme which took place in the Colaiste was attended by approximately 70 young people. Throughout the three days they were given an opportunity to explore their hopes, fears and expectations of transferring to the Colaiste. They also had an opportunity to familiarise themselves with their new school surroundings and to experience some of the facilities. Their observations were tested on the last day with a treasure hunt. Every effort was made by the leaders to make the programme as fun and activity based as possible.
Along with making friends with new classmates, the participants formed relationships with the Cairde pupils. Indeed it was the contribution of these young people that helped to make the transfer programme such a success. The Cairdes are a group of sixth year students whose role it is to support the new first years with their transition to secondary school. Along with being part of the transfer programme, they meet with the first years in the social area each day to ensure that they are ok, and they organise events which encourage social interaction throughout the year.
The organisers of the programme would like to thank most sincerely: Donal O’ Sullivan Art and School Stationary Supplies, for his kind sponsorship., School Principal, Mr. Ger O’ Brien and all the staff of Colaiste Pobal, a special thanks to Monty Franks for looking after them so well, Paula Hendrick, the Cairde students, Carol, Dani, Caoimhe and student guards Aishling and Denise for volunteering to facilitate the programme, and all who helped with the programme. They would also like to take this opportunity to wish all first years well in their new school.
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