Ardscoil na Mara Secondary School in Tramore Awarded Champion School of Sanctuary Status

Ardscoil na Mara Secondary School in Tramore, Waterford has been awarded the esteemed status of Champion School of Sanctuary, becoming the first school in Tramore and the 14th in the Republic of Ireland to achieve this recognition.

Following a visit by a monitoring team from Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, the team commended the school’s commitment and initiatives in promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment.

School of Sanctuary Monitoring Team, Sanctuary Ambassadors, Principal, and Teachers from Ardscoil Na Mara

The team was particularly impressed by the confidence and dedication of the school’s Student Ambassadors, who effectively communicated the importance of their work. The school demonstrated strong links with SETU to ensure clear pathways for students leaving the school, and they actively engaged with local primary schools, sharing best practices.

Ardscoil na Mara’s multicultural week sparked meaningful cultural conversations and fostered a deeper understanding of diversity among students.

The school’s commitment to restorative practices and the “Friends for Life” programme emphasized empathy and love. With a diverse staff and dedicated welcome pack for Ukrainian families, the school exemplifies inclusivity.

Their journey towards becoming a Champion School of Sanctuary was meticulously planned and embraced by the entire school community. An immersion trip to Belfast heightened student awareness of social issues. Impressed by the school’s initiatives, the monitoring team unanimously recommended Ardscoil na Mara for the Champion School of Sanctuary status, encouraging them to share their achievement through a press release to local and national media.

Ardscoil na Mara’s success serves as an inspiration for other schools to join the Schools of Sanctuary network and further support the initiative.

Congratulations once again and here are some great photos from the monitoring day.