Teacher: Ciara Whelan
Mobile: 086 6014004
The H.S.C.L scheme is a very positive programme in operation in Dungarvan College. It fosters a sense of trust between the students, parents and the school with the aim of maximising the participation of students and parents in the learning process.
The Five Goals of the H.S.C.L. Team:
- To maximise active participation of the children in our school in the learning process.
- To promote active co-operation between home, school and relevant community agencies, in promoting the educational interests of the children.
- To raise awareness in parents of their own capacities to enhance their children's educational progress and to assist them in developing relevant skills.
- To enhance children's uptake from education, their retention in the education system, their continuation to post-primary and third level education, and their attitudes to life-long learning
- To disseminate the positive outcomes of the scheme throughout the school system
Post-primary school is an exciting, challenging, rewarding but sometimes difficult experience, not only for students, but also for parents. The H.S.C.L scheme tries to ensure that this experience is as enjoyable and trouble free as possible. It recognises the role of parents and the home environment and seeks to promote a partnership between the school and parents.
Ms Ciara Whelan is available to discuss on a personal level, matters of concern to parents. If preferred she can make visits to the home. The scheme is also supported by the input of the Principal, Deputy Principal, Assistant Principals, Year Heads, Career Guidance teacher, Counsellor, Class. Teachers and Subject Teachers all of whom are actively willing to listen to the needs of parents. The scheme recognises parents as the primary educators of their children and is constantly looking at ways to support parents in this important role. Home visits are an excellent way of checking in with parents and listening to their views and concerns.
Parents are encouraged to take time for themselves and attend courses, which can be arranged free of charge during or after the school day. Courses can be on any subject e.g. Stress Management, Personal Development, Family Communication, First Aid, Alcohol and Drug Awareness Cookery etc.
These courses give parents the opportunity to share in the life and work of the school alongside their children e.g. Paired Reading - Helping students who have difficulty with reading, Maths for Fun - Maths games for students, Home Literacy Programme - Helps students work on their reading and comprehension in the home.
In addition, the scheme builds bridges between the school and many groups, organisations and agencies which impinge on the lives of our students. Such links include The South East Health Board, Garda JLO, Fas, Youthreach etc. We also have strong links with the Primary Schools in the area from which most of our students come. The H.S.C.L scheme is there for the benefit of the parents and children of Dungarvan College.
Its success depends in large part on your input. So if you have any ideas, concerns, opinions or requests please share them with us.