Issuu

Junior CyCle 2026-2027

Time

Lunch & After School Activities

Contact Information TEACHER

Name Room Subject

St. Leo’s College

2026-2027

DUBLIN ROAD, CARLOW, R93

DUBLIN ROAD,

CARLOW, R93 PW84

PW84

St. Leo’s College

DUBLIN ROAD, CARLOW, R93

PW84

Telephone: 059 9143660

E-mail: info@stleoscarlow ie

E-mail: info@stleoscarlow.ie

Website: www stleoscarlow ie

Website: www.stleoscarlow.ie

Telephone: 059 9143660

Principal: Niamh Broderick

E-mail: info@stleoscarlow ie Website: www stleoscarlow ie

Deputy Principals: Ian Curran and Emma Dwyer

Principal: Niamh Broderick

MISSION STATEMENT

Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, St Leo’s College is committed to the holistic development of each student

Deputy Principals: Ian Curran and Emma Dwyer

Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, St. Leo’s College is committed to the holistic development of each student.

Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, St Leo’s College is committed to the holistic development of each student

As a Catholic school, we pursue excellence in an inclusive, caring and respectful environment.

As a Catholic school, we pursue excellence in an inclusive, caring and respectful environment

Access information in your own language by scanning the QR code

Access infomation in your own language by scanning the QR code

Life After Leo

Life After Leo’s

Past pupil testimony

Shauna Downey

Irish Press Office trainee at The European Parliament

My time at St. Leo’s fostered my growth in confidence, abilities, and enthusiasm, moulding who I am today. Starting as the only student from my primary school, I embraced the range of subjects and extracurricular activities, which helped me find my voice and broaden my horizons. With supportive teachers and lifelong friendships, it was the best secondary school experience a girl could dream of, shaping my journey from Carlow to the European Parliament."

St Leo’s College opened up so many opportunities to me in leadership roles, sports and music to name but a few. I made some of my closest friends by getting involved in the wide variety of clubs that are on offer. The high standard of teaching and enthusiasm from staff kept me motivated throughout the full six years and I can say with confidence that this greatly impacted my academic success."

Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Health (UL)

Although I came to St. Leo’s from a small country school with just 17 in my class, the support and encouragement I received from the teachers made the transition seamless. I’ve always been an outgoing student and that was quickly recognised by the staff who continuously encouraged me to get involved. Throughout my time at St Leo’s, I had the opportunity to be part of a wide range of extracurricular activities including leadership programmes and being honoured with the role of Head Girl in my final year. I was also privileged to represent the school in Gaelic football, camogie and basketball. The huge range of opportunities, constant support and friendships are things that I will always be grateful for and even now while I’m completing my dream course, I’ll always be proud to be a Mercy girl."

Despite starting at St Leo’s in second year after coming back from Sudan and not knowing anyone in Carlow, I quickly felt right at home in this supportive and welcoming environment. The teachers were so lovely and eager to help me catch up on what I missed. I believe their faith in me and encouragement led me to RCSl and now to a Children’s Hospital in Australia. My favourite time was Transition Year. Although St Leo’s excels academically, there are so many opportunities to develop holistically. From art and sports to musicals (it’s so much fun helping backstage if you’re shy like me) to debating and young rights, there are so many avenues to explore at St Leo’s. I am so grateful for all of the wonderful opportunities I was afforded there."

St. Leo’s College

Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, St. Leo’s College is committed to the holistic development of each student. As a Catholic school, we pursue excellence in an inclusive, caring and respectful environment.

Dear Student,

A warm welcome to St. Leo’s College for the new academic year 2026 - 2027. A very special welcome to students who are attending our school for the first time. St. Leo’s College boasts excellent facilities and offers a comprehensive range of subjects to you, the student, at Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate level.

We have a superb teaching and support staff and we will do our utmost to help each one of you achieve your full potential.

Teachers and parents have the highest expectations of you with regard to:

• Academic achievement

• Wearing of uniform

• Completion of homework

• Compliance with Code of Behaviour

• Excellent punctuality

• Regular study

• Excellent attendance

• Respect and courtesy for each member of the school community

We have an exceptional pastoral care system in place consisting of Teachers, Class Tutors, Year Heads, Deputy Principals and Principal, and you can approach any member of staff if you have concerns. We expect, support and encourage all students to participate in the cocurricular and extra-curricular activities provided by the school.

All students have recourse to the Head Girls, Prefects, Meitheal, Cairdeas, Anam Cara and Student Representative Council. Take an active part in your school and in so doing ensure that St. Leo’s College becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone.

As Principal, I look forward to working closely with you over the school year and wish you every success and happiness in St. Leo’s College.

Go n-eirí libh go léir,

Niamh Broderick Principal

School Calendar 2026 - 2027

The School Week

Class Tutorial Checklist

Monday-Wednesday- Attendance, Newsletter, Class Updates and Student Check-ins

Thursday - Attendance and Homework Journal Check-in (parent/guardian signature needed)

1. Sign in using Anseo Card

Homework journals must be signed by a parent/guardian every week!

Attain

2. Daily Organisation - locker organisation, subject resources etc.

3. Personal Presentation - wear your uniform with pride

4. Present to tutorial before 8:50am

5. Mark attendance

6. Set up homework journal for the day

7. Listen to daily announcements; record important information

Additionally:

Each class group has the following support structures in place...

Your Homework Journal

Why

• Supports student learning

• Link between St. Leo’s College and home

How

• Organise the week ahead: plan to-do lists and track academic progress and project work

• Record homework accurately each day (written and learning work)

• Treat your journal with respect, present your journal with pride

What

• Checked regularly by Class Tutor and Year Head

• Parents/Guardians check and sign journals on a weekly basis (every Thursday)

• If lost, replacements must be purchased from the school office

5 Steps for a Successful Day at St. Leo’s College

1. Pencil casepens, pencils, rubber, eraser, ruler, highlighter, scissors, glue stick etc.

2. Homework Journal

3. Check your Timetable

4. Correct books, copies and resources

5. Correct uniform

1. Rule your page & add the date

2. Red pen for titles

3. Write notes in blue or black pen

4. Highlight key points of information

5. Stick in handouts immediately

1. Print out your timetable and stick it to the inside of your locker door

2. Group all resources for each subject together (book, workbook, copy, folder, etc).

3. Keep your locker tidy — clean & organise once a week

4. Visit your locker twice a day

5. Always have your journal out when checking which books you need for homework

1. List your subjects each day

2. Record all homework clearly; highlight or tick when complete

3. Record any deadlines for projects you have

4. Record all important reminders

5. Get a parent/ guardian to sign your journal weekly

Highly Effective Learning Homework,

Study and Revision

Homework is...

Work that has been assigned to you

Aim:

To help you learn information explored in

To prepare for bigger challenges e.g. TESTS

Study is...

Independent work

Aim:

To increase your understanding of coursework material

To work on areas for improvement

How do I balance homework and study?

Set aside time to complete homework immediately when it has been assigned.

Add small study sessions on at the end of a homework session (25 minutes max).

Use effective study strategies to ensure you are studying efficiently.

Junior Cycle

1st Year: 1-1.5 hours

2nd Year: 1-1.5 hours

3rd Year: 1.5-2 hours

Senior Cycle

Transition Year: Varies depending on project work

5th Year: 2-2.5 hours

6th Year: 2.5-3 hours

*Exam years should add on two to four 25-minute study sessions once homework is complete.

"Spaced revision is the opposite of cramming. Studying in short, spaced-out sessions over time leads to longer-lasting learning than cramming in one intense session before an exam. Spaced revision improves memory retention, enhances understanding and reduces the need for last-minute stress-filled studying."- The Learning Scientists

Highly Effective Learning Homework Tips

1. Open your Journal on the correct page at the beginning of class.

2. Record your homework accurately for each lesson.

3. Ask your teachers to clarify what you don’t understand about your homework before leaving class.

4. Complete your homework in a timely fashion. Memory is a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

5. Complete your homework in a quiet space free from distractions.

6. Make sure your learning space is organised and clutter free – tidy space, focused mind.

7. Give yourself a timeframe for completing homework to ensure focus.

8. Keep track of homework tasks you found difficult and add this to your revision plan.

9. Pay attention in class when homework is being corrected; make sure to make note of tips/tricks and correct errors made.

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

Subject Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Subject Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

Subject Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Subject Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

Subject

Teacher Level

Target Grade 1

Target Grade 2

Test Title Date of Assessment Result Achieved

St. Leo’s College

2026-2027

St. Leo’s College provides all students with free access to

Academic Tracking and Monitoring

St. Leo’s College provides all students with free access to…

St. Leo’s College provides all students with free access to...

Study US for all students:

Studyclix PL r all students:

Studyclix PLUS for all students:

1. Go to studyclix.ie to create an acco sign-in

1. Go to studyclix.ie to create an account or sign-in

2. Enter your upgrade code or update email to school email address

1. Go to studyclix.ie to create an account or sign-in

2. Enter your upgrade code or update email to school email address

2. Enter your upgrade code or update school email address

2. Enter your upgrade code or update email to school email address

“To study for an exam, we study the exam”

“To study for an exam, we study h exam”

Highly Effective Learning Study Skills

DISTRACTIONS

LOW-EFFORT STRATEGIES

CRAMMING MULTI-TASKING COGNITIVE OVERLOAD

1. Interleaving – Mix up your topics. The more random the order of topics, the harder your brain and memory works, resulting in more effective study sessions that will strengthen your memory muscle.

2. Spaced Practice – Space out your study time, organise it into small, high-effort sessions, maximum 30 minutes.

3. Retrieval Practice – Test yourself before studying your notes using a wide variety of strategies, including self-test, flashcards, challenge grid, self-correcting, etc.

4. Feedback – Give yourself feedback at the end of every study session – things I am good at, things I need to improve on, additional papers to tackle.

5. Repeat – Consistent, high-effort short study sessions three times a week are more effective than one 2-hour session.

The more you repeat the study tips, the stronger your memory will get! What to avoid...

Highly Effective Learning Study Strategies to Try

Every student in St. Leo’s College will engage in a study skills workshop annually from 1st–6th Year!

Every student in St. Leo’s College will engage in a study skills workshop annually from 1st-6 Year! th 2026-2027

Great for languageslearning key phrases etc.

Great for essay writinguse one post-it per paragraph to record key bullet points of information!

Great for key words, quotes, procedures etc.

Making & using them is study!

Think like the teacher! Create a list of every question you could be asked on a topic & get to work!

Great for all subjectscreating mock tests to identify areas for improvement & improve exam technique.

Great for procedure writing, brainstorming and quick self-testing!

Give yourself more time to get better. Divide one 1-hour study session into 3 small 20minute sessions!

Turn one topic into one page of quick noteskey information you need to know for an exam!

St. Leo’s College

Learning Review 1

Aim: Encourage reflective dialogue between students and their parents/guardians

Instructions:

1 . You will need a copy of your report , a pen and highlighters x2

2. Read your report and using highlighters, highlight positive feedback from teachers in one colour and areas for improvement in another colour

3. Read questions thoroughly before you begin answering

4. Discuss and record your response to each question

5. Student and parent/guardian both sign

6. Present completed ‘Learning Review ’ to Class Tutor by

Convert this document to your first language

Learning Review 1

Question Response

How do you feel about these results?

What result or comment are you most proud of, and why?

What did you do this term that helped you to achieve these results? E.g. study skills, paying attention in class, selforganisation

Which subject(s) do you most want to improve next term?

What could you try to do differently to prepare more, learn more and improve your results next time?

After reviewing your report together, what one goal will you and your parent/guardian agree on for next term?

Student Signature: ______________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________

Class Tutor/Academic Monitor Signature: Date:

Learning Review 2

Aim: Encourage reflective dialogue between students and their parents/guardians

Instructions:

1 . You will need a copy of your report , a pen and highlighters x2

2. Read your report and using highlighters, highlight positive feedback from teachers in one colour and areas for improvement in another colour

3. Read questions thoroughly before you begin answering

4. Discuss and record your response to each question

5. Student and parent /guardian both sign

6. Present completed ‘Learning Review ’ to Class Tutor by ________________

Convert this document to your first language

Learning Review 2 2026-2027

Question Response

How do you feel about these results?

What result or comment are you most proud of, and why?

What did you do this term that helped you to achieve these results? E.g. study skills, paying attention in class, selforganisation Which subject(s) do you most want to improve next term?

What could you try to do differently to prepare more, learn more and improve your results next time?

After reviewing your report together, what one goal will you and your parent/guardian agree on for next term?

Student Signature: Parent/Guardian Signature:

Class Tutor/Academic Monitor Signature: ________________ Date: ________________

Supporting Learner Outcomes

Academic Monitors My Brain and Me

The Learning Seminar

Time to Talk

The Learning Centre

Each year group is assigned an Academic Monitor who supports student engagement, academic progress and wellbeing.

Junior Cycle Wellbeing Module aimed at supporting students to understand how they learn.

2-hour evidencebased study skills session delivered during 3rd and 6th year.

2-hour workshop which encourages collaborative dialogue between parents and 6th year students.

Equipped with technology and resources to support students with additional learning needs.

You will participate in SEN modules during the 'My Brain and Me' programme. Topics covered will include Dyslexia, ADHD and Autism. This learning experience aims to develop the skill of perspective thinking.

Encouraging Reflection

time I will... I enjoyed learning this because... What helped me understand was...

my work to improve, I can...

Before this, I did not know...

Uniform and Appearance

• Take pride in your appearance. Full correct uniform must be worn at all times. Remember you are an ambassador for St. Leo’s College!

• Skirts at the appropriate length

• PE uniform worn only on days when you have PE

• Facial piercings, hoodies, leggings, converse runners, boots and ugg footwear are not permitted

• School jacket must be worn, no alternatives.

SCHOOL UNIFOM PE UNIFORM

• School jacket

• Green school jumper with crest

• Plain white blouse with revere collar

• Plain green skirt (junior students)

• Plaid skirt (senior students)

• Green trousers

• Green knee socks

• Black or green opaque tights

• Plain black/brown/navy shoes

• PE sweatshirt with crest

• Red t-shirt with crest or white polo shirt

• Plain navy/black tracksuit bottoms

• Plain white/black runners

*In the event of an issue or a breach of the uniform code, parents may be contacted. Sanctions may apply for students who persistently offend or refuse to comply.

Library

@stleoscollegelibrary

St. Leo’s College School Library is open every day at small break and lunch break and all are welcome.

It offers students the opportunity to explore new reads, join the book club, take part in board games and quizzes and act as library assistants (students who assist in the administration and organisation of the library).

Guidance Department

@stleosguidance

At St. Leo's College, we have a dedicated and experienced Guidance Counselling Team who are available to support students in the areas of education, personal development and career guidance.

Students have the right to seek counselling, as we believe every student should have access to support from trusted adults within the school, including teachers and counsellors. We encourage students to inform their parents or carers that they are receiving counselling.

Emotional Health and Wellbeing

USEFUL LOCAL SERVICES

ADDITIONAL SUPPORTS

MUI (My Unique Individuality)

LGBT+ Youth Group; Phone us: 085 272 2379 or (059) 9133714)

Bodywhys The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland. Helpline: 01-2107906

Childline

Spunout Visit spunout.ie/help/ Carlow Regional Youth Service, Mental Health Support

Phone: 1800 66 66 66 or visit www.childline.ie/

Wellness Checklist

Sleep Well

• Aim for 8–10 hours of sleep per night.

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule –even on weekends.

Stay Active

• Get at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days.

• This can include sports, walking, dancing or even active video games.

Eat Balanced Meals

• Include fruits, veggies, proteins and whole grains in your diet.

• Limit junk food and sugary drinks.

Connect & Communicate

• Spend time with friends, family or trusted adults.

• Talk about your feelings instead of bottling them up.

Take Breaks & Manage Stress

• Practise mindfulness, journalling or just unplug for a while.

• Avoid overloading your schedule –rest is productive too!

"You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind."

Personal Fitness Record

Health-Related Fitness

Cardiovascular

Muscular

Flexibility

Body

Performance-Related Fitness

Co-ordination

Teacher Comments/Progress Notes:

"The body achieves what the mind believes."

Digital Wellbeing Checklist

Check Your Feelings

Ask yourself: “How does being online make me feel? ” If it drains you → take a break .

Think Before You Post Be respectful . Be kind. Your words online matter just as much as offline.

Protect Your Space

Use privacy settings. Mute, block , or report anything that makes you uncomfortable.

Build Your Bounce-Back

If something online gets to you, talk to someone you trust . You don’t have to deal with it alone.

Question What You See

Not everything online is real .

Pause → Think → Decide before you click or share.

Mindful Colouring

St. Leo’s College

Mindful Colouring

Extra-Curricular Activities

Extra-curricular activities are an important part of life in St. Leo’s College.

They provide students with a wide range of opportunities which complement the curriculum and offer academic and personal balance, promoting wellbeing.

They provide students with a wide range of opportunities which complement the curriculum and oﬀer academic and personal balance, promoting well-being

Beneﬁts of Getting Involved

Benefits of Getting Involved

• Making New Friends – Meet people who share your interests.

• Developing New Skills – Learn teamwork, leadership and communication skills.

• Boosting Conﬁdence and Personal Growth – Step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself in a supportive environment.

• Boosting Confidence and Personal Growth – Step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself in a supportive environment.

• Reducing Stress – Take a break from schoolwork and enjoy activities you’re passionate about.

• Being Part of the School Community – Get involved, make a diﬀerence and contribute to school life.

• Being Part of the School Community – Get involved, make a difference and contribute to school life.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Sample of activities available at St. Leo’s College

Code of Behaviour

Scan to view

St. Leo’s College Code of Behaviour

“Respect

for Myself; Respect for Others”

St. Leo’s College Daily Expectations

1. Students are expected to attend every day, be punctual and fully engage in the learning process.

2. Students must present in correct full uniform daily.

3. Students must use their homework journal effectively.

4. Mobile phones are not permitted. Phones must be placed in your locker immediately upon entry into the school building and must remain there.

5. Students should be organised for lessons with all necessary books and materials.

6. A student who wishes to leave a lesson must get permission from the teacher and obtain the Staff Green Card.

7. Students are expected to be respectful of their peers, their learning environment, the school building and its facilities, their teachers and all school staff.

8. A student who wishes to leave the school premises must firstly be granted permission by the Deputy Principal/Principal/authorised personnel and have a request from home inputted on VSware.

9. When travelling to and from school at any time, due consideration for self, people, property and the wider community should be taken.

10. Bullying is not tolerated in St. Leo’s College.

11. Smoking/vaping and the use of e-cigarettes is prohibited on the school premises.

12. Possessing/consuming alcohol/illegal/harmful substances is prohibited on the school premises.

I have read and understand the full version of the St. Leo’s College Code of Behaviour and agree to follow its rules and expectations while attending the school.

Bí Cineálta Policy

Scan to view St. Leo’s College Bí

“Respect for Myself; Respect for Others”

As a member of St. Leo’s College, you have a right to:

1. Live your life in peace and safety.

2. Be an individual, proud of being unique.

3. Not be bullied.

4. Say ‘no’ firmly to anything you think is wrong.

5. Protect yourself by ignoring others or walking away.

6. Tell your Class Tutor or another trusted teacher if someone is making you unhappy.

As a member of St. Leo’s College, you have a responsibility to:

1. Not put up with any form of bullying.

2. Work actively with others to stop bullying.

3. Inform a member of staff of any form of bullying.

4. Not be afraid of reporting any incidents. If you do nothing it might suggest you are supporting the bullying.

5. Not put up with bullies in your friendship group.

6. Remember that St. Leo’s College is a Catholic school deeply rooted in the teachings of Christ.

Reporting Framework

I have read and understand the St. Leo’s College Bí Cineálta Policy and agree to follow its rules and expectations while attending the school.

Student Trusted Person Year Head Deputy Principal Principal

Cineálta Policy

Daily REMINDERS

Be in school early (8.30am recommended)

Scan your ANSEO card Get organised - locker/books/stationery

Be in your base classroom by 8.45am

Be at your desk, journal on desk before Tutorial at 8.50am

Be on time for every class, every day.

Child Protection & Safeguarding

The Board of Management of St. Leo’s College recognises that Child Protection and Welfare considerations permeate all aspects of school life and should be reflected in all of the school policies, procedures, protocols, practices and activities. In accordance with the requirements of the Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post Primary Schools (revised 2023), the Board of Management of St. Leo’s College will ensure adherence to Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children.

Under the Children First Act 2015, all schools are required to have a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and a Deputy Designated Liaison Person (DDLP), who are responsible for ensuring that reporting procedures are followed correctly and promptly, act as a liaison person with statutory agencies responsible for child protection and welfare, and will be the resource person to any member of the school community who has a child protection concern.

St. Leo’s College Child Safeguarding Statement is available here and on our website. Confidentiality

DLP - Ms. Niamh Broderick

Confidentiality is explained at the beginning of the year in SPHE and in Career Guidance.

• Confidentiality is limited.

• Teachers cannot give unconditional guarantees of confidentiality.

• In some cases, teachers may seek advice from the DLP.

• Teachers are obliged to share information with the DLP or if they think a student has been harmed, is being harmed or potentially could be harmed.

• This is done in the strictest of confidence with the DLP.

The St. Leo’s College Guidance Counselling Team are available to support students in the areas of education, personal development and career guidance.

SPHE and Relationships and Sexuality Education

Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) and Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) are delivered in full and in keeping with national guidelines at both Junior and Senior Cycle.

The teaching and learning of SPHE at Junior Cycle provides a unique space where students can develop the knowledge, understanding, skills, dispositions and values needed to support their physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing, now and in the future. RSE is an integral part of, and connects with, aspects of SPHE (NCCA, 2023).

Senior Cycle SPHE supports young people as they manage the demands of life now and prepare for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life beyond school. It builds the knowledge, understanding, skills, dispositions and values to enable them to flourish both now and in the future. From September 2025, Senior Cycle students must engage with 1 hour of SPHE per week (NCCA, 2024).

If a parent/guardian does not wish for their daughter to participate in their RSE lessons, they must contact their daughter’s Deputy Principal in writing

Junior Cycle Strands

Senior Cycle Strands

Prayers and Reflection

Back to School Prayer Prayer for Students

We thank you, Lord, for all that was good during the summer.

For the love of family and friends, and for the sunshine and warm days.

As we begin a new school year, we ask for your help and pray your blessing on everybody in this school.

Show us how to work together for the good of all. May we share our talents and abilities to the full and grow in knowledge, wisdom and happiness.

Give us the grace to become more like Jesus in the ways we think and behave.

During this school year, let us become builders of your ways and instruments of your peace.

We ask this school year blessing through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Thank you, God, for our school and our friends.

Help us to value the importance of the friendships we have made.

Give us strength to be honest in all that we do. Help us to show forgiveness when people make mistakes, even when it is hard and we have been hurt.

Help us to show respect and value that we are all special in your eyes.

Encourage us to persevere when things are hard; to make the right choices so that we can be the best versions of ourselves.

Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer Prayer Before Exams

Our Father, Who Art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done On Earth, As it is in Heaven. Give us this day, Our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those Who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. Amen.

Dear Lord,

As I take this exam, I thank you that my value is not based on my performance but on your great love for all.

Come into my heart so that we can walk through this time together.

Help me not only with this test but the many tests of life that are sure to come my way.

As I take this exam, bring back to my mind everything I have studied and be gracious with what I have overlooked.

Help me to remain focused and calm, confident in the facts and in my ability and firm in the knowledge that no matter what happens today, you are with me.

Amen.

Maths Formulae

Area of a square/rectangle: length x width

Area of a triangle: ½ (base x ⊥ height)

Area of a circle: r2 where r = radius;  = 3.142

Perimeter of a polygon: add the lengths of the sides together

Circumference of a circle [Length around the outside]: 2r2

Convert a fraction or decimal to a percentage multiply by 100

Convert a percentage to a fraction or decimal divide by 100

To find a fraction of a given quantity multiply the fraction by the given quantity

To find a percentage of a given number divide the number by 100 and x by the % required

Express one quantity as a percentage of another First make sure the units are the same. x 100 Smaller Quantity Smaller Quantity

BIMDAS

Adding/Subtracting Integers:

1. If the ‘signs’ are the same: keep the sign and add the numbers.

2. If the ‘signs’ are different: keep the sign in front of the numerically ‘bigger’ number and subtract the numbers.

Multiplying/Dividing Integers:

1. If the ‘signs’ are both positive: answer will be positive

2. If the ‘signs’ are both negative: answer will be positive If the ‘signs’ are different: answer will be negative Outcomes

Total Number of Possible Outcomes

Words Misspelled

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Punctuation!?

• Punctuation marks are symbols like a full stop, comma, exclamation mark, question mark, apostrophe, and quotation marks.

• Punctuation marks make the meaning of the sentence clear.

Full Stop.

Put a full stop at the end of a sentence. Here are some sentences punctuated with a full stop.

John is my good friend. Please don’t be late.

Question Mark?

Use a question mark at the end of a question. What’s your name? How many stamps do you have?

Exclamation Mark!

Use an exclamation mark after a command, an interjection, or a word that shows an emotion like surprise or anger.

What a surprise! You are fired! I told you not to do that!

Commas

Semi-colon;

In an interview, sit up straight; it is important to look alert.

Make good eye contact; don’t look down or look away in an interview. I have relatives that live in Strandhill, Sligo; other relatives who live in Midleton, Cork; and other relatives in Rush, Dublin.

Commas help readers understand sentences and the way they are used can change the meaning. In these examples, pay attention to the location of the comma and how the meaning is changed:

After you call Jim, I’ll leave for the restaurant. After you call, Jim, I’ll leave for the restaurant.

You are a VIP - a very important

So take care with self-care. If not you, who? If not now, when?

– Toni Hawkins

BUILDING RESILIENCE

Unfortunately, negative things happen to everyone in life; however, some people seem to bounce back quicker than others. This is referred to as resilience — your ability to bounce back after setbacks.

One useful way of understanding how to develop resilience is to use the acronym BOUNCE.

Bad things and times happen, but things do get better. Others are there to help you, but you need to let them know. Unhelpful thoughts don’t make things better. Nobody is perfect.

Concentrate on the good things in your life, it’s not all bad. Everybody has setbacks or struggles. You are not on your own here.

Here are five useful ways that you can build your own personal resilience. In the space provided, identify one way you could incorporate each one into your own life!

DIET, SLEEP and EXERCISE

To fully understand the importance of being healthy, you will now have the opportunity to learn about physical and mental health and the impact both have on your overall wellbeing.

One way that you can look after your physical health is by eating a balanced diet, getting sufficient sleep and doing some exercise each day. Good diet, sleep and exercise have countless physical and mental benefits.

Physical Benefits

Mental Benefits

• Helps to build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints

• Helps to control weight, build lean muscle and reduce fat

• Prevents and reduces high blood pressure

• Improves your memory and lengthens your attention span

• Improves your decision-making, planning and multi-tasking skills

• Increases your production of new nerve, blood and brain cells

Looking after your Physical Health

Ensure you have a healthy diet.

Scan this bar code to access the food pyramid, which shows how often you should eat different food groups.

Ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Avoid being on a screen before you go to bed, and it’s best not to bring your phone into your bedroom.

Try to get the daily recommended physical activity of 30 minutes of exercise. Consider including a column for physical activity in your study timetable so you can actively make it part of your daily routine.

GETTING HELP

The most important thing about mental health is being aware of your feelings as they arise. This helps you identify stress triggers and how you react to them. It is important that you have people around you that you can talk to about these things.

assistance advice support

So, let’s identify people in your life that you can go to in the three categories below.

People in your life with whom you can talk about anything.

People in your life who you can go to for advice.

1 2 3 1 2 3

Names of agencies / support services available to you if you need them.

WHO CAN you GO TO when you NEED HELP?

In the diagram below, fill in each circle with the various people in your life.

SELf-cARE TOOLKIT

We all handle our feelings in different ways.

That’s why it’s useful to have a list of things that make us feel happy or calm. Then, if we’re feeling low, we can just look at our list and pick something to try. This way, we have a “toolkit” ready whenever we need it!

What’s in your self-care toolkit?

What works to lift one person up might not be the right thing for someone else. When we’re stressed or overwhelmed, it can sometimes feel too hard to even think of what might help us feel better. 3 7 4 8 1 5 2 6

The Focus Finder

The Focus Finder helps you focus on what’s within your power to change, so you can let go of unnecessary worries and feel more at ease.

By letting go of what’s outside your control, you’ll be able to set more realistic goals, reduce stress and make your time and effort count.

Once you have filled in the circles, you will clearly see what is within your control and what’s not. Create a plan of action to address what’s in the inside circle and then practise letting go of what’s in the outside circle – as it is not within our control, we cannot change this.

Within Outside

mycontrol my control

• My attitude

• My reactions

• My self-care

• My work ethic

• How I spend my time

• Asking for help

• My words

• Social media accounts I follow

• My commitments

• What people say/ do

• Others’ opinions

• Weather

• The future

• The past

• Decisions I made in the past

• How others react

How to hit pAuse

The more you practise, the quicker you’ll be able to re-establish calm in your body and mind during stressful times. It makes sense that we take time to practise activating this response, so we can re-establish a sense of calm when we need it, like during a class test.

Start here

SO, HOW CAN WE DO IT?

STEP 1

Sit up straight and uncross your arms and legs.

STEP 2

Inhale slowly through your nose, counting silently to 4.

STEP 3

Hold your breath, counting to 4.

STEP 4

Exhale slowly through your mouth, counting to 4.

STEP 5

Hold again for 4.

STEP 6

Repeat 3 to 5 times or until you feel calm.

Would you add this to your self-care toolkit?

Feeling Lonely?

What's Loneliness Really About?

Loneliness isn't just about being alone. It's that weird, heavy feeling when you feel disconnected, even when you're surrounded by people.

There are loads of reasons why you may feel lonely.

• School can be tough.

• Friend groups change; people drift apart.

• Social media makes everything seem perfect (but it's not!).

• You might feel different or like you don't fit in.

• Big life changes like moving or switching schools.

• Feeling like no one really gets you.

Quality Over Quantity

You don't need a massive group of friends. One or two real friends who actually understand you are worth way more than a hundred random acquaintances.

Be Kind to Yourself

• Do things you enjoy.

• Keep a journal.

• Exercise (even just walking helps).

• Don't be too hard on yourself.

Quick Survival Guide to Beating Loneliness

First things first – feeling lonely doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. Most teens go through this at some point.

• Get out of your comfort zone (just a little).

• Join a club at school.

• Try a new hobby.

• Volunteer.

• Take a class in something you're interested in.

Talk to Someone

Whether it's a parent, teacher, school counsellor, or a helpline — talking helps. There’s no shame in asking for support.

Childline: 1800 666 666

Spunout: Text SPUNOUT to 50808

Website: www.spunout.ie

Bi CineAlta means “Be Kind”

Take a moment to reflect on kindness in your life. Answer the following in a few sentences:

A time someone was kind to me (What happened? How did it make me feel?):

A small way I can show kindness every day:

What is Bullying?

Bullying is targeted and repeated behaviour— relationships between two people or groups of people.

While one incident may not be bullying, aggressive behaviour is not acceptable in any school. Let’s remember the Golden Rule: treat others as you’d like to be treated.

Disagreements or deciding that you don't want to be friends anymore is not bullying. However, if someone repeatedly tries to harm, exclude, or turn others against someone, that is bullying. Online, a hurtful post can feel like bullying if it spreads and continues to cause harm. If you’re feeling upset by someone’s behaviour, talk to a teacher or someone you trust—HELP IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE.

EXERCISE

Create a set of illustrated scenarios showing different behaviours(both bullying and non-bullying).

( ) Tick if the situation is bullying.

( X ) Put an X if it is not bullying.

CLASS DISCUSSION – Review the answers together and discuss why certain situations are considered bullying and others are not.

Example scenarios for pictures:

• Two friends argue and stop talking for a day

• A student accidentally bumps into someone in the hallway

• Someone disagrees with a classmate in a group discussion

Notice it

Bullying is repeated behaviour that hurts someone physically, emotionally, or socially.

Tell someone

Let a teacher, parent, or trusted adult know what happened.

Record what happened

Write down who, what, where and when. This helps adults take action.

Talk it through

Adults will speak with everyone involved to understand the situation. Adults will be fair and consistent.

What to Do If You See or Experience Bullying

Keep safe

If it continues or feels serious, adults will take extra steps to protect everyone.

Follow up

Adults will check whether the bullying has stopped.

Agree on what to do

The teacher/adult may suggest ways to stop the bullying and make things better. You will be informed and involved in this process. Conversations will be conducted with sensitivity and they will ensure the privacy of those involved. Support

USE YOUR VOICE

Below are some phrases to help you use your voice to challenge harmful and hateful words.

Let’s change the topic? I don't feel comfortable with this conversation."

It’s not a joke when it hurts people; let's treat everyone with respect."

I don't think it's fair to make fun of someone for who they are or where they come from."

I'm here for you. I’m sorry people have treated you this way. If you need support, I've got your back."

EXERCISE

Listen to the song ‘Titanium’ by David Guetta and Sia.

Record below what you feel the message of this song is:

Spreading Kindness

The opposite of bullying isn’t just not being mean, it's actively choosing to be kind. It’s using your voice, your presence, your social media to create a world where people feel safe, valued, heard and seen. When we are kind the following happens:

endorphins, making receiver feel happier.

When you show kindness to another person, it creates a ripple effect. Not only does it make them feel good, but you feel good too. An extra bonus is that they’re more likely to pass that kindness on to someone else!

Complete the following random acts of kindness, and after each one, take a moment to notice how it feels.

A CEIST SCHOOL PROMOTES the spiritual development of each person, achieves quality in teaching and learning, shows respect for every person, creates a sense of community and is founded on compassion and justice.

- Catholic Education an Irish Schools Trust (CEIST)

My CEIST School

Who are CEIST

In 2007, the Congregations of five Religious Orders decided to join together and form a new organisation that would take over the responsibility of being patron to all of their secondary schools. As a result, CEIST was created and today it provides patron support to 105 secondary schools.

CEIST continues its mission, built on the founding vision of the five Congregations, emphasising the dignity and rights of the human person, empowering the most vulnerable in society and enabling young people to become agents for social transformation throughout the world. Learning and teaching take place in the context of our shared values, themselves based on Gospel values.

Vision

A

compassionate and just society inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ

Mission

To provide a holistic education in the Catholic tradition.

Daughters of Charity

Sisters of Mercy

Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Core Values

The core values of CEIST support and nourish the lives of students, staff and parents.

Promoting Spiritual and Human Development

We believe a knowledge of and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ gives meaning and purpose to our lives.

Showing Respect for Every Person

We respect the unique and intrinsic value of every person.

Promoting Spiritual & Human Development

Showing Respect for Every Person

Creating Community

Our schools are faith communities of welcome and hospitality where Gospel values are lived and where there is special care for those most in need.

Being Just and Responsible

We seek to act justly and responsibly in all our relationships.

Being Just & Responsible

Achieving Quality in Teaching and Learning

Creating Community Achieving Quality In Teaching & Learning

We are committed to excellence and to continually improving the quality of teaching and learning.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You seeking wisdom and grace.

Guide us in our studies and strengthen our minds,

That we may learn with diligence and understanding.

Help us to grow in kindness and respect for others,

And to be a light of Your love in our school.

Grant us the courage to face challenges with faith,

And the humility to seek help when needed.

May we always serve You in all that we do.

Amen

Where we come from

Catholic Education, an Irish Schools Trust (CEIST) is the trustee body for 105 Catholic Voluntary Secondary Schools in Ireland. Its role is built on the vision of the five founding congregations: Daughters of Charity, Presentation Sisters, Sisters of the Christian Retreat, Sisters of Mercy and Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.

CEIST schools are committed to keeping the characteristic spirit of the founding congregations alive and relevant to education in modern Irish society.

Education

Your school is an inclusive school. We provide students with an opportunity to grow and prepare for adult life and pay special attention to the intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual development of every single student. Students are provided with opportunities to deepen their understanding of religion, participate in prayer services and liturgical celebrations, and engage in spiritual reflection and growth.[9]

Our Shared Heritage

The formation of CEIST was also made possible by the coming together of five congregations: Presentation Sisters, Mercy Sisters, Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, Daughters of Charity, Sisters of Christian Retreat.

Nano Nagle founded the Presentation Sisters and opened her first school in Cork in 1754. In setting up schools in defiance of the established colonial order, Nano Nagle sided with those who were poor. She challenged the institutional injustice that perpetuated marginalisation and poverty. In keeping with that ideal, Presentation schools promote a faith community inspired by Gospel values and a holistic response to the spiritual, moral, social, intellectual and physical needs of each student.

Catherine McAuley opened her first school in Dublin in 1827. Like Nano Nagle before her, Catherine McAuley began her work with the poorest people in Dublin and her first schools were primary schools for the improvement of literacy and the teaching of the Catholic faith to those who had no other opportunity to learn. She initiated fee-paying schools for those who could afford

The formation of CEIST was also made possible by the coming together of three other congregations.

education, along with schools for those who could not pay. Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, Mercy education is committed to the full development and the achievement of the potential of each student, particularly those who are disadvantaged or marginalised, conducted in an atmosphere of care, respect and joy.

Jules Chevalier, founder of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in 1854, discovered a Christ who is compassionate, faithful, loving and humane. Imbued with a deep sense of mission, he set up the Congregation to bring the Good News of God’s love to all people. He believed the lives of all could be enriched by a spirituality centred on the heart of Christ. This philosophy is the guiding principle in the various ministries of the Congregation, including schools.

At the time of the French Revolution in 1789, Anthony Receveur founded the Sisters of the Christian Retreat. Their education programme offered a challenge to the French Revolutionaries’ idea of liberty, equality and fraternity that excluded God. Their aim was to awaken an alienated world to God through reflection, prayer and retreat. This objective is embodied in their approach to Catholic education.

The Company of the Daughters of Charity, founded in France in 1633 by St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac, provided free schooling for the poorest girls. These first schools were concerned with literacy, helping girls to come to know and love God and also acquire skills that would make them independent.

The Schools Network

The map opposite illustrates the geographical spread of the 105 schools which form the Network.

MAYO

Mount St. Michael Secondary School - Claremorris

Our Lady’s Secondary School - Belmullet

Sacred Heart School - Westport

Sancta Maria College - Louisburgh

Scoil Muire agus

Pádraig - Swinford

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Castlebar

St. Mary’s Secondary School - Ballina

SLIGO

Mercy College - Sligo

Coláiste Muire - Ballymote

St. Mary’s College - Ballysadare

ROSCOMMON

Scoil Mhuire - Strokestown

Mercy College - Roscommon

GALWAY

Clonfert College - Ballinasloe

Calasanctius College - Oranmore

Coláiste Chroí Mhuire

gan Smal - An Spideal

Holy Rosary College - Mountbellew

Presentation Rockford

Manor - Blackrock

23 Schools

Presentation College - Headford

Presentation College

- Athenry

High Cross College - Tuam

St. Paul’s Secondary School - Oughterard

St. Raphael’s College - Loughrea

Coláiste Muire Máthair

- Galway

Ulster

DUBLIN

Coláiste Bríde - Clondalkin

Mercy College - Coolock

Our Lady of Mercy College - Beaumont

Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School - Drimnagh

Sancta Maria College - Ballyroan

St. Joseph’s College - Lucan

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Rush

Mercy Secondary School - Inchicore

Presentation Rockford Manor - Blackrock

Presentation Secondary School - Warrenmount

Munster

TIPPERARY

St. Mary’s Secondary School - Newport

St. Mary’s Secondary School - Nenagh

Scoil Mhuire - Carrick-on-Suir

Presentation Secondary School - Thurles

Our Lady’s Secondary School - Templemore

Presentation Secondary School - Ballingarry

Presentation Secondary School - Clonmel

St. Anne’s Secondary School - Tipperary Town

CLARE

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Tulla

DONEGAL

Scoil Mhuire Secondary School - Buncrana

St. Columba’s College - Stranorlar

St Seton’s College - Ballyfermot

LOUTH

St. Vincent’s Secondary School - Dundalk

Sacred Heart Secondary School - Drogheda

Our Lady’s College - Drogheda

KILDARE

Scoil Dara - Kilcock

Coláiste Naomh Mhuire

- Naas

Ardscoil na Tríonóide

- Athy

WEXFORD

St Mary’s Secondary School - New Ross

Presentation Secondary School - Wexford

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Spanish Point

Scoil Mhuire - Ennistymon

Coláiste Muire - Ennis

Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare

KERRY

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Ballybunion

Mercy Secondary School

- Tralee

Presentation Secondary School - Castleisland

St. Brigid’s Secondary School - Killarney

Presentation Secondary School - Listowel

Presentation Secondary School - Milltown

Presentation Secondary School - Tralee

3 Schools

MONAGHAN

Our Lady’s Secondary School - Castleblayney

38 Schools

Coláiste Bríde - Enniscorthy

WICKLOW

St. Mary’s College - Arklow

CARLOW

St. Leo’s College - Carlow

Presentation College - Carlow

Presentation De La Salle College - Bagenalstown

WESTMEATH

St. Joseph’s Secondary School - Rochfortbridge

Mercy Secondary School - Kilbeggan

MEATH

St. Joseph’s Mercy Secondary School - Navan

Eureka Secondary School

- Kells

LIMERICK

Scoil na Tríonóide Naofa

- Doon

Ardscoil Mhuire - Corbally

Coláiste Nano Nagle

- Limerick

CORK

Coláiste na Toirbhirte

- Bandon

Christ King Girls’ Secondary School - Cork

Coláiste an Chroí Naofa

- Carraig na bhFear

St. Mary’s High School

- Midleton

Coláiste Muire Réalt na

Mara - Crosshaven

Scoil Mhuire - Kanturk

Mount Mercy College

- Cork

Mount St Michael Secondary SchoolRosscarbery

Scoil Mhuire - Trim LAOIS

Scoil Chríost Rí - Portlaoise

Coláiste Íosagáin - Portarlington

OFFALY

Sacred Heart Secondary School - Tullamore

Killina Presentation

Secondary School - Tullamore

KILKENNY

Presentation Secondary School - Loughboy

Coláiste Abhainn Rí - Callan

LONGFORD

Cnoc Mhuire - Granard

Meán Scoil Mhuire - Longford

Mercy Secondary School - Ballymahon

42 Schools

North Presentation

Secondary School - Farranree

Presentation Secondary School - Ballyphehane

Presentation Secondary School - Mitchelstown

Sacred Heart Secondary School - Clonakilty

St. Aloysius School - Cork

St. Mary’s Secondary School - Charleville

St. Mary’s Secondary School

- Macroom

St. Mary’s Secondary School - Mallow

WATERFORD

Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School - Waterford

Presentation Secondary School - Waterford

Ard Scoil na nDéiseDungarvan

This special CEIST award is presented to one student in each school according to criteria set by the school’s teachers and principals. The award celebrates the achievement of all students whose actions and intentions reflect the spirit and values of CEIST.

Ceiliúradh CEIST

February 1st

Each year, CEIST schools take some time out from their busy routines to celebrate the annual Ceiliúradh CEIST Day on February 1st. This is a day when our CEIST schools, teachers and students can come together and do something special to recognise and showcase the unique ethos and spirit of what it means to be in the CEIST family of schools. It is a celebration of who we are and where we came from. This gives us great confidence in planning where we want to go next.

CEIST Annual Student Leadership Conference

In the final term of every school year, CEIST welcomes student leaders from all of our schools across the country. Hundreds of students attend the Annual CEIST Student Conference to hear how students are empowered to contribute to the values and life of their school.

This is always a wonderful day, allowing student leaders to meet and share their stories as they explore student leadership and student voice and celebrate the shared identity.

DIET, SLEEP & EXERCISE

To fully understand the importance of being healthy, you will now have the opportunity to learn about physical and mental health and the impact both have on your overall wellbeing.

Physical Benefits Mental Benefits

• Helps to build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints

• Helps to control weight, build lean muscle and reduce fat

• Prevents and reduces high blood pressure

• Improves your memory and lengthens your attention span

• Improves your decision-making, planning and multi-tasking skills

• Increases your production of new nerve, blood and brain cells

Looking after your Physical Health

DIET

Ensure you have a healthy diet.

Scan this bar code to access the food pyramid, which shows how often you should eat different food groups.

SLEEP EXERCISE

Ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Avoid being on a screen before you go to bed, and it’s best not to bring your phone into your bedroom.

Try to get a daily recommended physical activity of 30 minutes of exercise. Consider including a column for physical activity in your study timetable so you can actively make it part of your daily routine.

GETTING HELP

HELP

assistance advice support

So, let’s identify people in your life that you can go to in the three categories below.

People in your life with whom you can talk about anything.

People in your life who you can go to for advice.

1 2 3 1 2 3

Names of agencies / support services available to you if you need them.

WHO CAN you GO TO when you NEED HELP?

In the diagram below, fill in each circle with the various people in your life.

How to hit pAuse

Start here

STEP 1

Sit up straight and uncross your arms and legs.

STEP 2

Inhale slowly through your nose, counting silently to 4.

STEP 3

Hold your breath, counting to 4.

STEP 4

Exhale slowly through your mouth, counting to 4.

STEP 5

Hold again for 4.

STEP 6

Repeat 3 to 5 times or until you feel calm.

Feeling Lonely?

What's Loneliness Really About?

Loneliness isn't just about being alone. It's that weird, heavy feeling when you feel disconnected, even when you're surrounded by people.

There are loads of reasons why you may feel lonely.

• School can be tough.

• Friend groups change; people drift apart.

• Social media makes everything seem perfect (but it's not!).

• You might feel different or like you don't fit in.

• Big life changes like moving or switching schools.

• Feeling like no one really gets you.

Quality Over Quantity

You don't need a massive group of friends. One or two real friends who actually understand you are worth way more than a hundred random acquaintances.

Be Kind to Yourself

• Do things you enjoy.

• Keep a journal.

• Exercise (even just walking helps).

• Don't be too hard on yourself.

Quick Survival Guide to Beating Loneliness

First things first – feeling lonely doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. Most teens go through this at some point.

• Get out of your comfort zone (just a little).

• Join a club at school.

• Try a new hobby.

• Volunteer.

• Take a class in something you're interested in.

Talk to Someone

Whether it's a parent, teacher, school counsellor, or a helpline — talking helps. There’s no shame in asking for support.

Childline: 1800 666 666

Spunout: Text SPUNOUT to 50808

Website: www.spunout.ie

Bi CineAlta means “Be Kind”

What is Bullying?

Bullying is targeted and repeated behaviour—online or offline—that causes physical, social, or emotional harm. It involves an imbalance of power in relationships between two people or groups of people.

While one incident may not be bullying, aggressive behaviour is not acceptable in any school. Let’s remember the Golden Rule: treat others as you’d like to be treated.

EXERCISE

Create a set of illustrated scenarios showing different behaviours(both bullying and non-bullying).

( ) Tick if the situation is bullying.

( X ) Put an X if it is not bullying.

CLASS DISCUSSION – Review the answers together and discuss why certain situations are considered bullying and others are not.

Example scenarios for pictures:

• Two friends argue and stop talking for a day

• A student accidentally bumps into someone in the hallway

• Someone disagrees with a classmate in a group discussion

Spreading Kindness

endorphins, making receiver feel happier.

Complete the following random acts of kindness, and after each one, take a moment to notice how it feels.

GROWTH MINDSET

People who display resilience have a growth mindset. Let’s find out a little more about this ...

What is a mindset?

A mindset is a person’s approach or attitude.

What are the different types of mindset?

There are two main types of mindset. They are known as a Fixed Mindset and a Growth Mindset .

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FIXED MINDSET AND A GROWTH MINDSET?

“I learn nothing from mistakes.”

“I am not good at some things.”

“When I am frustrated, I give up.”

“I learn from my mistakes.”

“When I am frustrated, I persevere.”

“I can learn anything if I try hard enough.”

Examine the diagrams above to identify what type of mindset you have. What techniques can you use to develop a growth mindset?

Your INTELLIGENCES

Howard Gardner, a psychologist, identified eight different types of intelligences. Research now suggests that different intelligences occur in different parts of your brain.

Here are the eight intelligences identified by Gardner:

INTRAPERSONAL VISUAL-SPATIAL

The ability to understand yourself, to be reflective, to know what you can or can’t do and where to get help. Used by philosophers, psychologists and church ministers.

MUSICAL

The ability to think musically and to hear, recognise and remember patterns. Used by musicians, mathematicians, artists and dancers.

The ability to interpret space and to navigate. Used by pilots, artists, architects and racing drivers.

INTERPERSONAL

The ability to understand and relate to others. Used by teachers, salespeople, politicians, human resource managers, doctors and psychologists.

The ability to understand cause and effect, to manipulate numbers. Used by scientists, mathematicians and engineers.

KINAESTHETIC LOGICAL & MATHEMATICAL

The ability to control body movement and the capacity to handle objects skilfully. Used by athletes, actors and dancers.

NATURALIST

The ability to discriminate between living things and be sensitive to the natural world.

Used by botanists, ornithologists and gardeners.

LINGUISTIC

The ability to use language. Being able to express what’s on your mind and to understand others. Used by poets, novelists, politicians and lawyers.

Reflecting on YOUR strengths

Developing a growth mindset by recognising your intelligences

A person with a growth mindset will ask themselves “In which ways am I intelligent?” and not “How intelligent am I?”

Use the diagram below to identify which intelligences most apply to you. Reflect on times when you have used this intelligence by giving a specific example.

Is this intelligence one of your strengths?

Give an example of when you have used this intelligence:

Is this intelligence one of your strengths?

Give an example of when you have used this intelligence:

important skills that will help you to grow as a person in this ever-changing world, including things to help your mental and physical health.

This section of your school journal contains key information about the Junior Cycle. We want you to be in control of all your learning in Junior Cycle, so we have developed an important list of keywords that you will need to be familiar with as you journey through your Junior Cycle.

Discuss these keywords with your class and write a definition for each one.

Key Skills

The world that we live in is constantly changing. Ask a teacher or a parent to talk to you about some of these changes.

What is a skill?

A skill is something you do well because it is something you practise regularly. Name one skill that you have that you think is important for learning.

The Junior Cycle recognises that the world will continue to change and wants to equip you with the necessary skills to meet these changes as you grow older. While there are many important learning skills, the Junior Cycle has identified eight Key Skills that will be central to your learning from first to third year.

Eight Key Skills of Junior Cycle

The eight Key Skills of Junior Cycle are illustrated in the diagram below. It is important that you can name each of these skills before we investigate them further.

K E Y S K I L L S

In order for you to be at the centre of your learning at Junior Cycle, it is important that you fully understand the importance of each of the eight Key Skills. In the space provided, draw one image of what you think each skill could look like and write one example of how you might carry out that skill.

What does this skill look like to you?

How can you demonstrate this skill in your learning?

What does this skill look like to you?

How can you demonstrate this skill in your learning?

SETTING AND PLANNING LEARNING GOALS

One way that you can be in control of your learning at Junior Cycle is to set yourself goals. Some of these goals might be subject based (e.g. you might want to complete all your English project work by December), while others might be personally related to you (e.g. you might want to learn how to play a musical instrument).

How do you set

The important thing to remember is that YOU are at the heart of your learning journey, so you must set goals that are suitable for YOU! Therefore, you must set yourself goals that are realistic to you. A simple technique to get you started for creating learning goals is called the SMART SYSTEM.

Do you understand what each of these terms mean? Write a definition for each one in your own words!

Creating goals for success

Now that you understand…..

a. why creating goals is important in order for you to be in charge of your own learning, and

b. the SMART technique for setting goals ...

… It’s time to set yourself some personal goals.

Sample goal setting

Read through and discuss the following example of a learning goal. Once you have done this, you will have the opportunity to create your own personal learning goals.

Date Set

Sep 28th Be able to have a conversation about my pastimes in French

Time to set your own goals

Planning

Date Set

November 2nd I remembered all the vocabularyimportant and I didn’t get nervous. I confused the present and past tense at times so I need to revise these.

Review and Reflection

To download the Setting Your Learning Goals template, just go to

To download the Reflecting on Your Learning Outcomes template, just go to

ASSESSMENT

Understanding the Importance of Assessment at Junior Cycle

What is assessment?

Assessment is a way of gathering evidence of all the knowledge and skills you have developed.

Why is assessment important at Junior Cycle?

Assessment is a very important feature of Junior Cycle because it gives you a clear picture of all the work you have completed from first to third year. It also allows you to reflect on the skills that you have learned and improvements you have made on your journey.

What are the different types of assessment at Junior Cycle?

There are two main types of assessment at Junior Cycle:

Formative assessment

This is a continuous assessment and happens in most classes in the form of quizzes, homework, etc.

Summative Assessment

This happens at the end of third year in an exam marked by the State Examinations Commission.

Used continuously Used at the end TYPES OF Assessment SUMMATIVE assessment Formative assessment

Formative Assessment happens in most classes. It’s a very useful way for your teacher to assess your work on an ongoing basis. The best way you can prepare for formative assessment is to have a good homework and study routine and to always do your best!

The best way to improve ongoing assessment is to learn from your teacher’s advice and feedback. For example, one teacher might advise you on ways to write better sentences, another teacher might ask you to learn specific facts.

Summative Assessment is more formal and happens at the end of your Junior Cycle. It takes two forms. One is the external exam marked by the State Examinations Commission. The other is the Classroom Based Assessment (CBA), which we will learn about on the next page.

The best way to achieve is to make clear goals, and have a good study and homework plan. This will be explored further in the second section of the Junior Cycle module.

Assessments for the Junior Cycle

Classroom Based Assessments (CBAs) are an important assessment in Junior Cycle.

• You will do two CBAs in each subject.

• You will do the first CBA in second year (CBA1).

• You will do the second CBA in third year (CBA2).

• They will be organised by your teacher.

• They will be held in your classroom.

• Your CBA will be reported on in your Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA) using one of these four descriptors:

o Exceptional

o Above Expectations

o In Line with Expectations

o Yet to Meet Expectations

Other Areas of LEARNING

One additional exciting feature of the Junior Cycle is that it provides you with the opportunity to engage in a variety of other areas of learning within your school community. It allows you to develop key skills in many other areas of school life. These can include different sporting, cultural, scientific and social activities happening in the context of your school.

You can showcase your other areas of learning (OAL) in your Profile of Achievement. Remember to write it in the first person and to concentrate on the skills you developed as a result of these activities!

Activity Teacher Involved Your role

Learning / Skill Achievement Teacher initials

If you need more space to record your OALs, just go to

New Junior Cycle Grade Bands

Soccer Ms Mulcahy Team Member GM

(Key Skill = Working with others) I participated on the team that reached the Leinster finals.

Learning and Study

A Study System

It is important to create a study plan at the beginning of the school year to keep you motivated and to avoid feeling stressed about your workload. You will now be walked through a three-part study system.

Plan It

Do It

Review it

PLAN IT .................................... Step one

Let’s reflect on how you planned your study in the past and use it to identify improvements you can make in Junior Cycle.

How did you plan your study in the past?

How could you plan your study better now?

At Junior Cycle it is important to use your independence and responsibility to ensure you are in control of your learning.

Weekly Study Planner

Ensure that you create a study plan that suits YOU. Make a new one each week as each week will vary in both your school and home life!.

To download a Study Planner for each week, just go to

Use this template to write out a planner for next week in school. Be sure to include any school events, including any homework, practicals or assessments. Also include details of your plans each evening – it is important to have a healthy balance between school work, exercise and rest!

Subject Revision Planner

Use this template for each subject you are studying. Use it to take note of each topic within the subject that you must study, and record each of your reviews of each of the topics on the Subject Revision Planner.

To download a Subject Revision Planner for each subject, just go to

Tips for using the Subject Revision Planner

Here are some simple techniques for keeping an effective study plan ...

• Use the Subject Revision Planner for each of your subjects.

• Divide each subject into key topics.

• Indicate how important each topic is for your assessment.

• Record when you create your study notes and complete POKER (we will examine this in detail on the next page).

• Tick the box when you have completed each review.

Acronyms

SillySentences

Techniques to help you remember

Generally speaking, most people find it hard to remember what they read in a book. For this reason, they take notes. Notes can be in many different forms. All these are based on knowing that we learn best using association and imagination. If you don’t know what each of these techniques are, do some research on them – you will find that they will help your study.

Keyword Visuals

O E R K

Mind Maps POKER System

P O E R K

Tackle any subject easily Study System

This simple system can be followed to break each subject down into bite-sized chunks called topics.

Pre-test

Overview

Keywords

What do I already know about this topic?

What is the structure of this topic? What are the subheadings?

Highlight the keywords for the topic.

Etch & Sketch

Create a one-page summary that uses the headings and keywords.

What do you now know about the topic?

By creating a study plan and regularly revising, you have made a great start. By devising your own notes and study techniques, you will have a much greater knowledge of your subject areas. However, there is one final step in the journey, and this is review!

Why should you regularly review your notes?

Did you ever wonder why you could remember your phone number or date of birth so easily but then struggle to remember what you learned in geography last class or the name of someone you met last week?

The truth is that you need to regularly review your notes in order for the information to go into your long-term memory.

How often should you review your notes?

Review it

Ideally, you should review your notes…..

Now that you have created your notes in the form of a one-page summary, you have this knowledge of the topic in your short-term memory.

BUT it won’t be there forever, it’s up to you to review it and make sure the knowledge goes into your long-term memory.

Use the Subject Revision Planner to record each review. You will be surprised at the difference it makes!

DIARY DIARY DIARY

Subject Homework Record

Remember / Cuimhnigh:

Subject

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Homework Record

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Signed by Parent/Guardian:

Signed by Teacher/Tutor:

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Homework Record

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Managing Your Learning

There are three main elements to managing your learning, these being:

1. Setting learning goals and planning your learning

2. Monitoring your progress

3. Reflecting on your learning and progress with a view to learning from past experience.

Learning how to manage yourself and your learning is a key skill for Junior Cycle and it will prepare you for success at Senior Cycle.

Below are links to tools/templates which will help you to manage your learning.

The templates are divided into the three elements of self-management for learning:

1. Setting learning goals and managing your learning, 2. Monitoring your progress, 3. Reflecting on your learning and progress.

When you select a QR Code for a particular template, it takes you to the online template and you can then print that resource and use it to manage your learning.

Templates

1. Managing Myself - Setting learning goals and planning your learning

Template A Setting Your Learning Goals

Template B Your Study Timetable

2. Monitoring Your Progress and Recording Your Achievements

Template D Monthly Review

Template E Tracking Your Results by Subject

Template C Subject Revision Planner

Template F Other Areas of Learning

3. Reflecting on Your Learning and Progress - Reflections on your monthly learning

Template G Reflecting on Your Assessments

Template H Reflecting on Your Learning Goals

NOTES

JUNIOR CYCLE SUCCESS

Revision book series

QR codes to access online resources

LEAVING CERT SAMPLE PAPERS

Sample questions and answers to past papers

10 Higher Level and 6 Ordinary Level sample papers included in each book

Curriculum broken down, reducing students’ workload

Student-friendly language and modern graphics