Wellbeing at ETSS Wicklow
Wellbeing is central to teaching and learning at Educate Together Secondary School Wicklow. We are committed to supporting the mental, emotional, physical and social wellbeing of all students, helping them to develop the skills, confidence and resilience needed to thrive in school and beyond.
Our approach
Our approach to wellbeing reflects the Educate Together ethos and places students at the centre of their learning in a respectful, inclusive and supportive school community.
Wellbeing is promoted through everyday school life, strong relationships, student voice and a broad range of learning experiences across junior and senior cycle.
Our Wellbeing Framework
At ETSS Wicklow, student wellbeing is guided by the Junior Cycle Wellbeing Framework and is structured around six key indicators. Students are supported to become:
How we support student wellbeing
- Wellbeing provision across junior and senior cycle programmes.
- Daily tutor time to support connection, organisation and student voice.
- Access to guidance and counselling support where required.
- A positive school climate built on respect, inclusion and strong relationships.
- A wide range of co-curricular activities that promote balance, confidence and belonging.
Wellbeing in Practice
- Whole-school initiatives such as Stand Up Awareness Week and Wellbeing Week promote inclusion, respect and positive mental health across the school community.
- The Student Council plays an active role in shaping wellbeing initiatives and ensuring student voice is central to school life.
- Strong pastoral structures, including year heads and tutors, support students’ wellbeing and help maintain positive relationships throughout the school.
- Students have access to the Student Support Team, alongside guidance support, guest speakers and workshops focused on mental health and wellbeing.
Wellbeing Subjects and Learning Areas
Wellbeing at ETSS Wicklow is supported through a range of curricular and co-curricular learning experiences across junior and senior cycle.
SPHE (Junior and Senior Cycle)
Social, Personal and Health Education supports students in developing self-awareness, emotional literacy, positive relationships and healthy decision-making. SPHE plays a central role in supporting students’ wellbeing throughout their time in the school.
CSPE (Junior Cycle)
Civic, Social and Political Education supports students in becoming active and responsible citizens. Students explore human rights, social justice, equality and democratic participation, helping them to understand their role in society at both local and global levels.
Junior Cycle Short Courses and Wellbeing
A range of Junior Cycle short courses at ETSS Wicklow contribute to students’ wellbeing by supporting creativity, collaboration, self-expression and active learning. These courses form part of the school’s Junior Cycle Wellbeing provision and support the development of key wellbeing indicators.
Short courses offered include:
- Coding
- Digital Media Literacy
- Animation
- Horticulture
- Philosophy
- Debating
- Climate Action and Sustainable Development (CASD)
- Artistic Performance
Through these short courses, students develop confidence, resilience, communication skills and a sense of connection, while engaging in meaningful and relevant learning experiences.
Physical Education and Ethical Education
Physical Education supports physical wellbeing, teamwork and positive engagement with physical activity as part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Ethical Education encourages students to reflect on values, identity, belief systems and relationships in a respectful and inclusive environment, supporting personal growth and critical thinking.
At ETSS Wicklow, wellbeing is a shared responsibility across the entire school community. Through inclusive practices, strong relationships and student-centred learning, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.