Class Bríd
We respect, we care, we learn, we develop, we belong
Coláiste na Sceilge is committed to creating a community in which everyone is respected, where everyone has the opportunity to develop in a challenging, caring, assertive, knowledgeable and appreciative of their locality: its beauty, history, culture and amenities. People who have a clear sense of their worth and the valuable role they can play in the betterment of their communities. People who can enjoy their lives to the full.
As Coláiste na Sceilge is the only second level school in South West Kerry, we are keen to develop the varied talents of all the students in the area. Class Bríd has been established to cater exclusively for students with special education needs such as general and specific learning disabilities, physical, sensory and language disorders and students within the autistic spectrum. The curriculum is student centred giving students the opportunity to be educated with their peers, within their own community.
The main aim of Class Bríd is to provide the students with the required skills and knowledge in preparation for their effective inclusion into the school, the wider community and adult life.
Class Bríd is a special education needs class with the mainstream school and offers a three tiered approach to education. The students are based within Class Bríd where they work from their Individual Educational Plans which are drawn up in collaboration with parents.
They have specific subjects taught by subject teachers within the class. They also have access to subjects taught within the mainstream classes.
Life and social skills classes form an important part of the curriculum, where the local town and environment serve as a living classroom.
The FETAC Level 3 Certificate in General Education was introduced into the curriculum in 2009. This is a nationally recognised certificate offering students an alternative route to progression in education and training. The content of the Level 3 Certificate is outlined below.
This certificate forms part of the National Framework of Qualifications.
Students are also encouraged, where possible, to sit subjects in state examinations. Some students opt for a programme which offers a mixture of mainstream subjects and FETAC modules, other students follow their own individual programmes within Class Bríd. All students benefit from different levels of SNA support, depending on their individual needs.
There are currently four special needs assistants (SNAs) employed at Coláiste na Sceilge who work with students to promote their independence as well as offering any educational and personal support they require.
Inclusion in transition year activities is encouraged and greatly enjoyed, with subjects such as First Aid and Car Theory on offer.
Inclusion involves more than mere placement in regular classes within a school. It involves full participation in a community which embraces and celebrates the contribution of each individual and the richness of what they bring to life. Class Bríd and Coláiste na Sceilge work from this model of inclusion.
At Coláiste na Sceilge we aim to:
- Provide a positive learning environment for the children to maximise their learning potential
- Promote achievement and recognition of all effort.
- Develop self-esteem and confidence
- Help students understand the world in which they live and acquire relevant knowledge skills
- Encourage and respect tolerance for others
- Utilise and develop appropriate forms of communication to promote understanding and self-expression
- Encourage students to make choices and express preferences with the school.
Follow a student centred learning programme
Equal Opportunities
In Coláiste na Sceilge, we believe that all people have the right equal opportunities to reach their full potential.
We value and celebrate diversity and treat each member of the school as an individual, actively promoting equal opportunities.
The ethos of the school supports the development of the self- respect and self esteem in all pupils, staff and the community.
We aim to ensure that the curriculum reflects the needs of our diverse society.
We are opposed to all forms of inequality, harassment and discrimination.
In all respects we aim to meet the needs of all, taking into account, age, gender, abilities, disabilities, sexual orientation, social circumstances, religion, gender and ethnicity.
Coláiste na Sceilge is part of the Kerry Education Service and it is the mission of Kerry Education Service, in conjunction with other education and training agencies and community development bodies, to create and promote of a learning development in Kerry, so that all who live in Kerry have access to the education and training required by their personal, social, cultural, economic and civic needs.
What parents say:
Rita Crean
“As parents, what we appreciate most about Coláiste na Sceilge is that Shane is receiving a relevant education, in a manager that respects the challenges he experiences, but at the same time allows him to explore his talents and cherishes his achievements.”
Loreto Lynch
“Education today for someone with a special educational needs must be meaningful and useful, it must be fun and non-intimidating and above all be given in as happy and safe environment, Class Bríd ticked all the boxes for us.”
