KCS, Kinsale

View Original

Empowering Changemakers: A New Era of Student Activism at Kinsale Community School

In an era where global challenges demand innovative solutions, Kinsale Community School is proud to introduce a groundbreaking initiative that celebrates and nurtures the spirit of student activism – The Changemakers Programme. This initiative aims to recognise and empower students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in various fields from; Global Citizenship, Sustainability, Model United Nations, the Green Team, Concern Debating, My Gug Team, BT Young Scientists, Young Environmentalists, Young Social Innovators, Erasmus, Belong To, and the Hub in Active European Citizenship, activities that contribute to positive change in our school and wider community. 

The Changemakers Programme identifies students who stand out as leaders and agentic individuals within their field of expertise that encompass Global Citizenship Education. Teachers play a crucial role in this process, carefully observing students' dedication and impact. Once identified, these exceptional students are officially recognized as Changemakers within the school community. This recognition serves not only as a testament to their dedication but also as an inspiration for their peers. By shining a spotlight on these student activists, Kinsale Community School aims to encourage a culture of positive change and proactive engagement with global issues. 

The Changemakers Programme aims to go beyond mere acknowledgment; it is a holistic approach to fostering leadership and mentorship among students. Recognised Changemakers will be encouraged to take on roles as tutors, mentors, and models for younger students in the school who wish to be involved in extracurricular projects and develop a profile both within and outside of the school. 

One of the key components of the programme is to encourage Changemakers to share their experiences and knowledge with younger students. Through tutoring and mentoring, they can guide their peers in understanding the importance of initiatives. Changemakers are expected to actively participate in and model their involvement in various activities. This could include leading sustainability projects, participating in debate competitions, contributing to science initiatives like the BT Young Scientists, or engaging in social innovation projects. By showcasing their commitment, Changemakers inspire others to get involved and make a difference. 

The ultimate goal of the Changemakers Programme is to create a community of passionate, engaged, and socially responsible individuals within Kinsale Community School. By fostering mentorship and modelling positive engagement, the programme seeks to instil a sense of agency and responsibility in every student, encouraging them to contribute to a better and more sustainable world. 

The 'Changemakers' Programme at Kinsale Community School represents a commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. By recognising and empowering student activists, the school aims to create a community that actively contributes to positive change, both within the school and in the broader global context. Through mentorship and modelling, the programme sets the stage for a new era of student activism, where every individual has the potential to be a positive force for change. 

 

We are so excited to introduce our ‘Changemakers’: 

  1. Lilian Gleave (Y6) 

  1. Sophie Peare (Y6) 

  1. Ruby Henchion (Y6) 

  1. Zoe Mc Loughlin (Y6) 

  1. Giulia Moretti (Y6) 

  1. Conor Crowley (Y5) 

  1. Mark O Driscoll (Y5) 

  1. Ian Cullinane (Y5) 

  1. Dylan Henebry (Y5) 

  1. Ronan Sheehan (Y5) 

  1. Rosie O Donovan (Y5) 

  1. Cait O Higgins (TY) 

  1. Martin Hickey (TY) 

  1. Shaun Mc Carthy (TY) 

  1. Ellie Sheedy (TY) 

  1. Skye Sheedy (TY) 

  1. Holly Murphy (TY) 

  1. Shea O Connor (TY) 

  1. Elma Palone (Y3) 

  1. Martha O Sullivan (Y3) 

  1. Edel Ryle (Y3) 

  1. Jessica O Keeffe (Y3) 

  1. Oscar Green (Y2)