Extra Curricular
Wellread Initiative
St Mac Dara’s are taking part in the Oide ‘Wellread National Award’ which is an initiative that seeks to involve the whole school community in fostering and growing a culture of reading among all.
In St.Mac Dara’s CC, we value reading for pleasure as we recognise its importance for our overall wellbeing along with academic achievement. We acknowledge that young people and adults can be overwhelmed with technology and strive to promote reading as a recreational and worthwhile activity.
Over the next two-three years, we will implement a range of initiatives involving all stakeholders. Keep an eye on this page for our latest initiatives.
Wellread Book Club
Our first parent/guardian book club was established in January 2024. The book club meets every 5-6 weeks to discuss our chosen title. Our current title is ‘Prophet Song’ by Paul Lynch. New members are always welcome. Contact Ms.Denny for more information.
Wellread Paired Reading
Our TY students have been working alongside some of our new 1st year students in a paired reading programme. This programme aims to support the literacy skills of our students, provide extra help to those who need it, alongside promoting reading among our older cohort of students. Applications can be sought from Ms.Galligan in G6.
Staff Reads
We have introduced a range of initiatives to promote awareness of reading among our staff, including the following:
- A ‘Book of the Month’ display in the staff room. Staff are encouraged to read the book and discuss it over their tea breaks.
- ‘My favourite book’ is displayed on classroom doors. All classroom doors display that teacher’s favourite book. This encourages discussion about reading amongst staff and students.
- The addition of a ‘currently reading’ to our email signatures. This promotes awareness of our involvement in the Wellread programme with our wider community.