'The impact of these tragedies will be felt for some time' - Waterford schools offer support for struggling students

Following the tragedy, which struck the Birchwood area of Waterford last Tuesday, October 13, there has been an outpouring of community support throughout the city, with local councillors, schools and community groups calling on people in the area to come together in one of Waterford's most difficult times.

Support systems have been set up for those affected by the tragedy in the community by Waterford City and County Council through their support hub in the Butler Community Centre in St John’s Park.

Local schools have also been set up with additional supports for students, teachers, and the wider public with the help of the National Education Psychological Services (NEPS).

Sally Ronayne, Principal of the Presentation Secondary School, which one of the victims of the tragedy, Nadia English (14), attends, said NEPS has been supporting both herself and her staff on how best to support their pupils during this "extremely difficult time".

Despite the industrial action planned at the school last Wednesday, October 14, the school opened their doors to pupils and families, Ms Ronayne told this reporter, "so that anyone who needed support could access it".

Since then, they have kept two dedicated support spaces open within the school for pupils, a home school community liaison room and a prayer room.

Teachers and guidance counsellors have been available in the rooms throughout the school day, she said, providing ongoing care and support for any students struggling.

A prayer service was held in the school for both Nadia's class and the wider school community last week.

"We are very conscious that grief affects everyone differently and that the impact of these tragedies will continue to be felt for some time. We therefore intend to continue supporting and monitoring our girls closely over the coming days and weeks, guided by NEPS and by the individual needs of our students.

"Our priority throughout has been, and will continue to be, ensuring that our girls feel safe, supported and cared for as they navigate this extraordinarily difficult time," Ms Ronayne said.

NEPS are also working with Scoil Lorcáin, where 12-year-old Callum attended, Caroline Douris, the principal of Scoil Loráin told RTÉ News last week.

Ms Douris appealed for privacy when speaking to RTÉ News reporters, asking for children to be left alone and allowed to "just be kids", adding that the school will try and keep things "as normal as possible" as the well-being of the children is the most important thing at the moment.