Guidance
Supporting every student to achieve her full potential
At St. Mary’s Secondary School, Guidance is an integral part of our commitment to the personal, educational and career development of every student. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to discover her strengths, make informed decisions and prepare confidently for life beyond school.
Guidance in St. Mary’s is delivered through a whole-school approach involving our Guidance Counsellors, Year Heads, Class Tutors, Student Support Team, Additional Educational Needs Team, School Management and all staff.
Personal Guidance
Students are supported in developing confidence, resilience and wellbeing as they navigate school life.
- Individual guidance appointments
- Wellbeing support
- Study skills and organisation
- Goal setting
- Transition support
Educational Guidance
Students receive support in making informed choices throughout their time in St. Mary’s.
- Subject choice
- Junior Cycle planning
- Transition Year
- Senior Cycle pathways
- Examination preparation
Career Guidance
Students are encouraged to explore future opportunities and plan confidently for life after school.
- CAO applications
- Further Education and PLC pathways
- Apprenticeships
- College open days
- Career investigations
Whole-School Guidance
Guidance is a whole-school responsibility and is embedded across school life. Students are supported by a wide range of staff and programmes including SPHE, Wellbeing, Religious Education, Career Education, subject teachers, Year Heads, Class Tutors, the Student Support Team, the Additional Educational Needs Team and School Management.
This collaborative approach ensures that every student is known, valued and supported in her personal, educational and career development.
Senior Cycle Supports
Senior students have access to a comprehensive programme of guidance throughout Fifth and Sixth Year.
- One-to-one guidance meetings
- CAO information sessions
- College and university information
- Further Education and Training options
- Apprenticeship pathways
- Scholarship information
- Interview preparation
- Personal statement support
Parents
Parents play an important role in supporting their daughter’s educational and career development. Throughout the school year, St. Mary’s provides information evenings, subject choice presentations, Senior Cycle information, CAO presentations and individual support where appropriate.