The Meitheal Programme, which is an anti-bullying mentoring programme for students in secondary schools, has been running successfully in Enniscorthy Community College since 1999. In this programme, our senior cycle students receive training to equip them with the skills to become mentors for incoming First Year students. It is a programme based on pro-respect within the school community, and one that enables students to take responsibility for the happiness of others and for the safety and well-being of all who share a school environment.
Applicants who are chosen to become Meitheal Leaders undergo a two-day residential training programme in the summer prior to their return to school the following September. This training programme covers the areas of:
- Personal development
- Outdoor team-building skills
- Bullying awareness
- Communication skills and active listening skills
- Assertiveness skills
- Group dynamics
- Group management and decision-making skills
After their training the students return to their respective schools and each is given responsibility for a number of incoming First Year students. It is then the task of the Meitheal Leaders to ensure the smooth transition of these young people into the school and to be available to assist them in any way necessary especially during their first few days in school. In the first few weeks of term, it may be practical things they need help with such as getting to grips with timetable, organising their lockers, homework and finding their way around the school.
The programme has proven to be effective in promoting the happiness of students in general as well as reducing instances of bullying, isolation and early school leaving. It also gives First Years a very positive start in secondary school and research in this area has proven this promotes higher retention. The Meitheal Coordinator in the school is Ms. Niamh Cullen-Ivory and the Meitheal Leaders that have been selected for 2023/24 are Ben Murphy, Ruby Rellis, Katie Nolan, Shakira Waters, Linda Kavanagh, Molly Brady, Lucy Wiiliams, Hollie Murphy, Keeley McCarthy and Gabriela Kursci.