My name is Rachel O’ Connor, I am in my 10th year as Principal of Ramsgrange Community School, situated on the Hook Peninsula in Southwest Wexford. I will begin in a new position as Deputy Director of NAPD on September 1st 2023.
Wellbeing, a buzzword of late is defined by the WHO as a “state of complete, physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease of infirmity”. Wellbeing is unique and personal yet something we are trying to contextualize to the workplace.
As a teacher, establishing professional relationships with parents is crucial for the success of your students. Not only does it help to create a positive learning environment, but it also ensures that parents feel connected and involved in their child’s education. However, building these relationships can be challenging, especially when it comes to setting boundaries and maintaining a professional connection.
A trauma informed school understands that there is nothing “wrong” with these kids but rather something has
happened or IS happening to them. A trauma informed school will see the need for trauma care before diagnosis. In
this way a trauma informed school can give the struggling child the gift of a secure base from which they can begin to
explore the world and take risks again.
Start with a smile and welcome the parents/ guardians to the meeting. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you. Begin by asking the parent(s)/ guardian(s) how they feel their child is getting on at school. This will give you time to settle into the meeting, and understand what perhaps the parent feels needs to be discussed.
We all know that schools can be frenetic places to work, with teaching one of the top three most stressful occupations, therefore things that we can control such as our mindset, perspective and attitude are paramount in order to start the year on a positive note. As William Johnsen said “if it is to be, it’s up to me”.
Hello everyone! My name is Adam Barrett, and I run the Instagram page @mister_muinteoir_ where I showcase my day to day teaching, the ups and downs of the real teaching world, as well as support student teachers and NQTs as they find their feet in the teaching world.
Ciara McGuane is the Summer Course Director for Rahoo.ie.
Her career highlights include being filmed by BBC London teaching in the classroom and guest-lecturing at the Institute of Education in London. She has worked as a teacher, school leader, teacher trainer and initial teacher training tutor prior to setting up Rahoo.
Trina Golden – Primary Principal of a new school, Owenabue Educate Together in Carrigaline, Cork. Previously the Principal of Ennis Educate Together. Passionate about equality based education, additional needs, educational disadvantage and trauma informed approaches.
Not only is it a bit of craic but it is a fantastic way to promote healthy habits, build leadership skills, emphasise team work and improve social skills.
A great day for everyone, as long as the rain stays away right?!