School Completion Programme
The School Completion Programme (SCP) is an initiative that aims to have a positive impact on retention for young people at risk of early school leaving. This is achieved in a number of ways utilising a range of innovative, creative as well as tried and tested interventions. What makes the School Completion Programme model unique is its ‘bottom-up’ approach, which allows Local Management Committees (school-based, community, statutory and voluntary interests), to put together plans and supports that target the needs of local young people at risk of early school leaving.
“The Canals Cluster” is the name of the Local Management Committee that St Paul’s, along with three other second level schools in South Kildare, form. The committee comprises of the local co-ordinator, the four principals, the four home school liaison officers and a number of community people who work with young people. Each school has autonomy in deciding on initiatives and interventions that promote attendance, retention and ultimately school completion. The following are initiatives at St Paul’s that are funded by the School Completion Programme.
Guitar Classes
Classes designed for beginners and advanced. Classes take place after school. Students may bring their own guitar or the school will provide one.
St. Paul’s Musical Society
Students rehearse once a week after school and occasionally during school hours. They perform at school religious services, school shows and at other times through out the year.
Hip Hop Dance
This is an after school activity for all students, proving to be very popular combining fun and exercise. Participating students will have the opportunity to perform in school shows.
Breakfast Club
Each morning from 8.15am tea, toast, cheese, hot chocolate and orange juices are available to all students free of charge.
Homework Club
The Homework Club takes place each day after school for one hour. It provides selected students with extra help with their homework and is supervised by teachers and senior students on a voluntary basis.
Ignite
The Ignite programme is a personal development programme which is supported by Co. Kildare Leader Partnership. Each year a number of 2nd year students in St. Paul’s take part in the programme. The programme aims to equip young people with the personal and life skills required to reach their potential within the school system and in the wider world. An evaluation of the programme noted the improvement in self-esteem and confidence levels of students who took part. The course is delivered by the SCP Co-ordinator and a Volunteer.
Boot Camp
This is a week long Summer Camp for selected students. Activities for the week may include soccer, badminton, hiking, kayaking, pitch and putt, cinema trips, swimming, laser quest, bowling etc…….