Pastoral Care
Here in Coláiste Nano Nagle we go to great efforts to create a nurturing and supportive setting, where students feel safe, secure and respected.
The Role of the Guidance Counsellor
The role of the Guidance Counsellor (GC) involves working in three different areas, in class or on an individual basis (one to one guidance interviews). These areas cover career, educational and personal guidance. Our school has an extremely dedicated and committed Guidance Counsellor, Neil Loftus.
Work with Senior Cycle Students
In the classroom
Throughout their senior years students are encouraged to seriously consider their career options. The GC meets with Fifth and Sixth Years classes on a weekly basis. Areas covered include career interest tests, information on Third Level courses, PLC courses, CV preparation, letter writing, form filling, interview skills, grant information, CAO and UCAS application. Areas covered in relation to educational guidance include study skills and exam preparation. Information evenings are also held for parents regarding the CAO application, study skills, etc. On the LCVP programme the guidance counsellor is also involved in the career investigation report. On the LCA programme, the GC delivers the guidance module.
Individual basis
The GC is also available to students on an individual basis regarding the above career and educational issues or any personal issues that may prevent progression at school. Confidential guidance is available to any student who wishes to discuss personal difficulties or problems in so far as the student is not a danger to themselves or others. Sometimes reassurance or encouragement is all that is needed, at other times the problem is more serious and may require ongoing support. Students can be assured they are supported in a non-judgemental way in assisting them to work through their problems and find their own answers. Sometimes the difficulties are such that they are beyond the capabilities of the GC and the student will then be assisted in seeking other/outside professional help.
Work with Junior Cycle Students
In the classroom
The GC has a role with incoming First Years in relation to administration of AH2’s (aptitude tests) for placement purposes. Areas covered in class on an ad hoc basis are issues such as transition from primary to secondary, study skills and subject choice for Second Year. Second Years are seen by the GC on an adhoc basis regarding setting goals and study skills. Third Year students complete a battery of aptitude and career interest tests and classes are given on subject choice, study skills, exam preparation. Information evenings are also held for parents.
Individual basis
Individual appointments are arranged for first and second year students who wish to discuss areas such as homework, adjusting to school, subjects, study skills or personal issues. Third year students are seen on an individual basis regarding options and subject choice for fifth year and any other issues that may arise.
Other areas of Work
Within the school, the GC also has involvement in the Care Team, Critical Incident Management Team, and NBSS. The GC also maintains contact with outside agencies/ support groups that cater for the career, educational and personal needs of students. i.e. NEPS, CAMHS, Junior Achievement, Barnardos. GC’s are also encouraged to attend regular Institute of Guidance Counsellor meetings and attend supervision.
The pastoral role is supportive and affirmative to Management, Staff, Students and Parents.