Our Lady’s Bower is delighted to be involved in the new Framework for Junior Cycle which provides for a new area of learning called Wellbeing. Wellbeing will cross the three years of junior cycle and build on substantial work already taking place in support of students’ wellbeing.
This area of learning will make the school’s culture and ethos and commitment to wellbeing visible to students.
It will include learning opportunities to enhance the physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of students. It will enable students to build life skills and develop a strong sense of connectedness to their school and to their community
.Why does wellbeing matter? Wellbeing is gaining increased attention across many education systems, influenced by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This emphasises children’s right to achieve their full potential and participate in decisions that affect them. Wellbeing matters because it leads to better educational outcomes or can influence young people’s outcomes as adults. It is also important in its own right because all students have a right to feel cared for in school.
There will be a particular focus on this concept in CSPE, PE, SPHE and Guidance classes but all subjects will incorporate an aspect of wellbeing.
As part of this programme we would encourage the girls to get involved in all aspects of school life, especially extracurricular activities, as this can foster a better sense of belonging. Students may choose sports – hockey, basketball, football, cross country – and/or choir and orchestra.
All beginners are welcome. During the school day there will be opportunities to join the Irish Club, the Alpha de Beta Society, Big Sister Little Sister or to get involved in the student council.
Later on, girls may participate in many competitions such as Scifest, Prism Maths, Junk Kouture, Young Scientist, AILO, Juvenes Translatores, First Year Talent Show, or the very popular cupcake competition.
If you’re too shy to compete why not make a point of supporting your classmates by attending debates, concerts and matches. Follow their achievements on Facebook and Twitter. It’s all part of being a Bower girl!