IR23 Welcome to Ireland (Ferry boat, school)

Our 11 students went to Bridgetown College which  is a rural second-level school which serves the needs of a large catchmentarea stretching from Wellingtonbridge to Rosslare Harbour and from Kilmore Quay to Forth Mountain. The main topic of the week was maritime territory analysis by visting highlights places, meeting professional guides and collaborating with the Wexford council.

The college is multi-denominational, co-educational and non-selective in its intake and staff in the college, supported by the Board of Management and the Parents’ Association, endeavour to provide for the many and varied needs of students. To this end the college offers a range of programmes and a broad curriculum which incorporates traditional academic and vocational subjectsin addition to subjects geared towards promoting active citizenship, personal and moral development, self-confidence and healthybalanced lifestyles.

It offers a comprehensive package of student supports which are provided by the Special Needs Department, our Career Guidance Counsellor, Tutors and Year Heads, our Home School Community Liaison Officer (HSCL), our Behaviour for Learning Teacher and the School Completion Programme (SCP) team. Students in the college also contribute to the support system through theirparticipation in the Meitheal Programme and the Student Council.

Students enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular activities thanks to staff who give generously of their time and talents. Extra-curricular activities provided include: athletics, basketball, camogie, equestrian events, football, hurling, handball, outdooreducation, rugby and soccer. Students produce a newspaper entitled “The Bridge” and they are encouraged to participate in competitions in the following areas: art, public speaking, enterprise and essay writing. Each year a variety of musical productions are staged and many students participate in the choir and orchestra.

Staff in the College want what parents and students want, want students in the care to achieve their potential before they go on to third level education or employment. The college also strive to ensure that our students are healthy and happy during all schoolyears.

The life 48 hours, to go and back, on the ferry was a real human and teambuilding experiences. Most of students were sick whenwe went to Ireland but the weather was really good to go back. It was a great moment to create link in the group and share the results together.

This school exchange was a fun experience, providing students and teachers with exposure to the irish culture, language and international awareness. The hosting families were really closed with our students and the spirit of new friends, piece of familywas the best gift for all.