The Meitheal Programme is a mentoring programme for students in secondary schools. Fifth Year students receive training to equip them with the skills to become mentors for incoming First Year students.  It is a programme based on respect within the school community, and one that enables students to take responsibility for the happiness of others and for the safety and well-being of all who share a school environment.

Transition Year students are invited to apply to become Meitheal Leaders in the school for the following academic year when they are in Fifth Year.  Applicants who are chosen to become Meitheal Leaders undergo a four day intensive training programme in the summer prior to their return to school the following September in Scala.  This training programme covers the areas of:-

• Personal Development

• Outdoor team-building skills

• Bullying Awareness

• Communication skills and active listening skills

• Assertiveness skills

• Group Dynamics

• Group Management and Decision Making Skills

After their training the students return to school and each is given responsibility for a number of incoming first year students.  It is then the task of the Meitheal Leaders to ensure the smooth transition of our First Year students especially during their first few days in school.  In the first few weeks of term it may be practical things they need help with such as getting to grips with timetable, organising their lockers, homework and finding their way around the school. The programme gives First Years a very positive start in secondary school.