The Guidance Department at Thomond Community College plays an integral role in the overall education and holistic development of each student. There are three guidance counsellors on staff who are available to meet students on a one-to-one basis for personal counselling and also to provide any education or careers advice. We have timetabled guidance lessons at both Junior and senior cycle where we cover topics such as study skills, exam preparation, subject choice and information on third level courses and various careers and occupations.
In addition, the Guidance Department is involved in several programs linked with local businesses. These include the ‘Business in the Community’ program which is linked with our neighbour, TUS , the ‘Engage in Education’ programme, which supports the progression of students to further and higher education as well as the strong links we have with ‘Junior Achievement Ireland’. Other local partnerships include our links with Regeneron, Northern Trust, Carelon, Johnson & Johnson, among others. These partnerships give students an insight into the world of work and allows them to meet employees who act as mentors and help our students in their CV preparation and interview techniques.
The Guidance Department also has strong links with local third level colleges and conducts various trips to the colleges and has guest speakers visit the school, when possible. TUS and UL run a number of programmes that are of huge benefit for our students such as ‘Look to the Future’ with first years, ‘Broadening Horizons’ with third years, ‘Skills at Work’ with Transition Years and mentoring programmes with the senior cycle. We also work closely with TUS in the ‘Access to Apprenticeship’ programme. All of these programmes provide great opportunities for our students to link school and education with the wider world of third level and work.
At Thomond Community College the wellbeing of all students and staff is one of our highest priorities. Wellbeing is delivered through the school curriculum and through the many programmes and supports that we have to offer. The Guidance team play an active role in supporting student wellbeing on a daily basis and are also part of the Student Support Team, which looks after the welfare of students within the school. This Student Support Team meets once a week to discuss what help can be given to students in need of support. These supports can be from personnel within the school or may involve contact with various outside agencies. Other members of the Student Support Team, who attend this weekly meeting, include the Principal, Deputy Principal, the school Chaplain, the Home School Community Liaison Person, the School Completion Officer and the Special Educational Needs co-ordinator.