KCETB Student Voices Heard at Student Council Training Day
Over 150 students from 13 ETB schools across Kilkenny and Carlow took part in a bespoke training day this week focused on the vital part they play on their Student Council.
The role of the Student Council in post-primary education is to promote the interests of the school and the involvement of students in the affairs of the school, in co-operation with the board, parents and teachers.
The one-day course, organised by Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) is an annual event aimed at helping each student to have their voices heard, so they can make meaningful contributions to decision-making for the benefit of their fellow students and their schools. 
Facilitated by Dr. Siobhán Keenan Fitzgerald for council member students across five schools in Carlow, the training highlighted the role and responsibilities of their individual Student Councils. Part of the training provided is to equip students with the skills required to take an active part in their councils. Dr. Fitzgerald has a passion for empowering young people to become more confident and competent communicators and public speakers, helping to equip them to have a say in matters that effect their lives.
Students from Gaelcholáiste Ceatharlach, Borris College, Tyndall College, Coláiste Eoin, Coláiste Aindriú, Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Kilkenny City Vocational School, Grennan College Thomastown, Scoil Aireagail Ballyhale, Coláiste Mhuire Johnstown, Coláiste Cois Siúire Mooncoin, Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh and Abbey Community College, Ferrybank attended the training day with their teachers whose role is to support student councils in schools. Through an election of their peers, students are appointed on to their Student Council each year.
The students learned from each other as they worked in groups with students from other schools in designated workshops. Briefing on council roles such as chairperson, deputy chairperson, secretary, treasurer and PRO were provided and the students learned about working in partnership with school management, staff and parents for the benefit of the school and their fellow students.
The day was overseen by KCETB Director of Schools, Dr Pauline Egan. “All of our 13 KCETB secondary schools are very student centred and our Student Councils provide excellent opportunities for students to make their voice heard. Over the years, we have seen our Student Councils contribute to the development of school policy in a number of areas which have brought significant benefits, to the students and to the school itself”.
“As well as demonstrating democracy in action, Student Councils are also a great way of allowing our students to develop their communication, planning and organisational skills which will be of benefit to them in their future lives”, added Dr Egan.
