Waterford's Presentation Secondary School honoured as School of Sanctuary

On Tuesday, February 11, Schools of Sanctuary Ireland brought together 10 schools from across the country for a prestigious national award ceremony at Technological University Dublin, Grangegorman. During the event, the schools were officially recognised as “Champion Schools of Sanctuary”.

Founded in 2019, Schools of Sanctuary Ireland is a holistic, whole-school programme designed to foster inclusivity in Irish schools. The Champion School status is a significant accolade, acknowledging the dedication of these institutions in creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all pupils and their families. This initiative particularly supports newcomers from refugee and migrant communities, as well as ethnic minorities, including the Traveller community.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain, who presented the awards, praised the schools for their commitment to inclusion.

“These Champion Schools of Sanctuary are beacons of hope for the whole country, now and in the future. I commend the students and teachers for setting standards of excellence in their commitment to welcoming and including newcomers and minority groups, and I look forward to seeing more schools learning from their shining example.” 

Also in attendance was Dancing with the Stars contestant Aishah Akorede, who is also a law graduate, advocate, innovator, and campaigner for women’s empowerment and health. Speaking about the event, she said: “The awards ceremony is about recognising the impact that motivated students can have on creating school cultures that celebrate and champion inclusivity.” 

Among the 140 young attendees were students from Presentation Secondary School, which was one of only eight post-primary schools in the country to receive the award. Additionally, Presentation Primary School was one of just two primary schools to be recognised, ensuring that students attending both schools experience a consistent, inclusive, and welcoming environment throughout their education.

Reflecting on the event, Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary, highlighted the importance of the initiative in today’s society.

“In a current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these 10 schools is timely. These schools have made a commitment to ensuring their school shines as a beacon of inclusion, welcome, and equality. In doing so, students are learning facts, not fiction, about refugees and asylum seekers and why and how they come to Ireland.” 

Fifth-year student Aarya Kshirsagar who attended the event on behalf of the school noted that the award recognises the dedicated efforts of both students and staff at Presentation Secondary School in celebrating diversity. This commitment is reflected in classroom activities, school events, parental engagement, and collaborations with external organisations. 

The school’s Diversity Committee and Schools of Sanctuary Committee, led by students and supported by staff, organises various events throughout the year. A highlight of these efforts is the annual Culture Week, which culminates in a vibrant concert and fashion show celebrating the rich diversity within the school community.

Deputy Principal Ruth Gallen, who accepted the award with students from the school, said, “Inclusion is at the heart of our school ethos, and we strive each day to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, feel at home in our school and can reach their full potential.” 

 This recognition reinforces Presentation Secondary School’s role as a leader in promoting inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel valued and embraced throughout their educational journey.