St. Columba's College, Stranorlar

Our CEIST Values and Student Wellbeing

Our CEIST values guide how we help students develop confidence, build positive relationships and feel that they belong in our school community.

Student Support Team

Our Student Support Team works together to ensure that each young person feels valued, supported and encouraged throughout their time with us. The team includes the Principal, Deputy Principals, Year Heads, Guidance Counsellors and SEN Co-ordinator who work collaboratively to respond to students' academic, social, emotional and personal needs.

We recognise that every student is unique, and our support structures are designed to help each individual thrive. Whether students need assistance with their learning, guidance in making important decisions, support during challenging times, or simply someone to listen, our Student Support Team is always there to help. By fostering strong relationships with students, parents and staff, we create a safe, caring and inclusive environment where every student can develop confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging while reaching their full potential.

Cineáltas Student Wellbeing Group

The Cineáltas Student Wellbeing Group at St. Columba’s College is part of the national Bí Cineálta (Be Kind) initiative, which promotes kindness, inclusion, and respect in schools across Ireland. Our group plays a key role in supporting student wellbeing by leading positive actions, encouraging peer support, and fostering a culture where everyone feels safe, heard, and valued. We are committed to making kindness a visible and everyday part of school life, because even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference.

Wellbeing in Junior and Senior Cycle

At Junior Cycle, students learn about wellbeing through SPHE, PE, CSPE, Religious Education, Wellbeing classes and activities throughout the year. At Senior Cycle, SPHE, PE and Religious Education continue to support wellbeing. Everyday relationships and experiences across the school also help students build the skills and confidence they need.

Mentoring Programme

Our Mentoring Programme is designed to help students feel supported, connected and confident as they settle into school life and progress through their educational journey. Through positive relationships with senior mentors, first years benefit from guidance, encouragement and a friendly listening ear. The programme promotes a strong sense of belonging, helping students to build confidence, develop resilience and navigate challenges with greater ease. By fostering meaningful connections within our school community, the Mentoring Programme ensures that every student feels welcomed, valued and supported to achieve their full potential.

Bodywhys Body Positive Project

Our school is promoting positive body image and self-esteem through the Bodywhys Body Positive Project and our SPHE and Wellbeing programmes. With support from Bodywhys, we encourage students to build confidence and develop healthy attitudes towards food and body image.

Bodywhys is Ireland’s national eating disorder support organisation. It provides:

• Confidential helplines
• Email and online support
• Support groups for young people and families
• Resources for parents and educators

Early support makes a difference, and recovery is possible.

Contact Bodywhys

• Youth helpline: 01 210 7906
• Email for young people: alex@bodywhys.ie
• Website: www.bodywhys.ie
• Bodywhys body image resources can be found here.

What We’re Planning

As part of the project, our school is organising:

• A Body Positive Student Committee
• A Body Positive Project awareness day
• The Inside Out programme in Junior Cycle SPHE
• Sharing Bodywhys resources with the school community