Killina Presentation Secondary School named Champion School of Sanctuary

Killina Presentation Secondary School has been named a Champion School of Sanctuary, becoming the first secondary school in Offaly to receive the honour.

The Schools of Sanctuary Ireland initiative recognises schools that foster inclusion, equality, kindness, and a welcoming environment for all students and families, particularly those from diverse countries, cultures, and backgrounds.

The prestigious title, awarded by School of Sanctuary Ireland, is based on three core pillars: learn, action, and share.

The school described the achievement as a “tremendous honour” and said the entire school community is “extremely proud” of the recognition. In a statement, the school said the Schools of Sanctuary monitoring team was “hugely impressed by every aspect of their visit”.

In its feedback, the monitoring team praised the warm and inclusive atmosphere throughout the school.

“From the moment the monitoring team arrived, there was a genuine sense of warmth, welcome, and inclusion throughout the school,” the report stated. “Students led the day with confidence and pride, speaking openly about their Schools of Sanctuary journey and their understanding of what sanctuary means within their community.”

The team also commended the kindness, empathy, and respect shown by both students and staff.

“It was especially moving to hear students reflect on intercultural learning and the friendships and connections they have built through the school’s inclusive environment,” the feedback continued.

The report highlighted the school’s strong commitment to supporting all students, pointing to multilingual displays, calm wellbeing spaces, neurodiversity supports, artwork, library resources, and celebrations of different cultures and traditions throughout the school.

“The welcoming atmosphere within Killina was visible across every part of the school community,” the report said. “The strong support for migrant, refugee, EAL, and neurodiverse students demonstrated a school where every young person is encouraged to feel safe, valued, and included.”