Mentoring

Mentoring Programme – Relationship Keepers

In line with the ethos of Scoil Phobail Bhéara, each child’s personal, emotional, spiritual, social and academic development is a priority. The building of each child’s self-esteem is of prime importance. Our school provides a safe and caring environment in which all students can flourish and receive the education they deserve. We endeavour to ensure that every student has a positive experience of school life.
The transition between Primary and Post-Primary school can be a very emotional and challenging time for many students.

Our Restorative Practice Relationship Keeper Programme plays a vital role in supporting 1st Year students to settle into their new environment with confidence.

What is the Relationship Keeper Programme?
This programme is rooted in restorative values and focuses on building positive relationships, supporting wellbeing, and creating a caring school community. Transition Year students are invited to apply to become Relationship Keepers. After an application and selection process, chosen students take part in training to prepare them for their role.
Relationship Keepers are introduced to 1st Year students during induction. Each 4th Year student is allocated a small group of 1st Year students (approx. 3–4 pupils) whom they will mentor and support throughout the year. The idea is that every new student has an approachable peer to turn to, making it easier to share worries, celebrate successes, and feel connected.
If a 1st Year student feels uncomfortable in their group, changes can be easily made. The emphasis is on ensuring that all students feel safe, valued and supported.

How Restorative Practice Works
The programme uses the RESPECT values (Respect, Empathy, Safe, Personal Accountability, Equality, Community, Trust) as a guide for building healthy relationships. Relationship Keepers are trained in:
  • Friendship and inclusion
  • Preventing and responding to bullying
  • Setting healthy boundaries
  • Listening and confidentiality
  • Problem-solving using restorative questions
Through circles and group activities, Relationship Keepers help 1st Year students reflect, connect, and develop social and emotional skills. The focus is always on relationships: building them, repairing them when needed, and learning how to communicate with kindness and empathy.

Support System
Relationship Keepers deal with minor difficulties and provide a listening ear. If a serious difficulty arises, they immediately contact the Mentor Programme Team (the Chaplain, Year Head of 1st Years, Principal, Deputy Principal, or Class Teachers).

The programme ensures that 1st Year students have not only teachers and staff but also trusted peers who embody restorative values and light the way forward in our school community.