At its heart, the Edmund Rice ethos is about:

1. Faith in Action

• Rooted in the Gospel and Catholic tradition.

• Prayer, reflection, and a living faith are encouraged.

• Students are invited to see faith not just as belief, but as action for justice and compassion.

2. Inclusivity and Welcome

• Every person is valued equally, regardless of background, ability, or belief.

• A strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and respect.

3. Justice and Care for the Marginalised

• Special concern for the poor, vulnerable, or excluded — echoing Edmund Rice’s work with disadvantaged boys in Waterford.

• Schools often have outreach programmes, social justice initiatives, and fundraising for those in need.

4. Holistic Education

• Education of the whole person: academic, spiritual, emotional, cultural, physical.

• Encouragement of critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth.

5. Community and Belonging

• A family spirit in the school — relationships of care, trust, and mutual support.

• Strong emphasis on partnership with parents, local community, and the global Edmund Rice network.

In summary:
The Edmund Rice ethos means a school is not just about academic results — it is about forming compassionate, just, and hopeful young people who will make a positive difference in the world

• Schools are communities of faith, rooted in the life of Jesus and Edmund Rice.

• Prayer, reflection, liturgy, and the Gospel are part of school life.

• Students are encouraged to explore their own spirituality.

2. Promoting Partnership

• Schools work together with staff, parents, students, Boards of Management, parish, and the wider community.

• Leadership is about service, collaboration, and respect.

3. Excelling in Teaching and Learning

• Commitment to high-quality education for all.

• Developing the full potential of every student — intellectually, physically, emotionally, culturally, and spiritually.

• Encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.

4. Creating a Caring School Community

• Every student is valued and supported.

• Schools promote respect, inclusion, fairness, and care.

• A safe environment where belonging and wellbeing are prioritised.

5. Inspiring Transformational Leadership

• Leadership in Edmund Rice schools is inspired by Gospel values.

• It is about empowering people, promoting justice, and serving others.

• Schools aim to form leaders (staff and students) who will make a positive difference in society.

In short:
The 5 elements of the ERST Charter are about faith, partnership, excellence, care, and leadership. They provide the framework for how Edmund Rice schools live out their ethos every day.

Academic Support

SEN catered to in lessons

Welcoming Committee

Mentoring

Events e.g. standup week, learning together day, intercultural day.

Offer a variety of programmes and subjects e.g. LCA/LCVP

Community initiatives in school

Reward trips

Positive points on VSware

Student awards for effort and achievement

Acknowledgement of achievements outside of school

Links with local community e.g. fundraising event/community care

- Peer observation

-Learning together day

- all extra curricular activities

-guest speakers

-parent teacher meetings

- collaborative teaching and learning

- subject department meetings

- ERST meetings

- Gaelbhratach (collaborate with other schools)

-green schools

- BOM

-external partnerships with colleges, Future Leaders, Marie Keating Foundation, Jigsaw,

- local school collaboration

-work experience

- erasmus

- lunch-time clubs

Role of tutor and year head

Mentor

Prefects

Clubs and Teams

Intercultural Day

Friendship Day

Social Committee

Focus on SEN - ensuring all students needs are met. Analysing VSware for any needs to look out for.

iPad school - accommodating to all types of learners through the use of technology (Quizlets, Kahoot!,

Holistic development - Wellbeing week, anti-bullying policy, inter-cultural day.

Staff peer observation - learning from each other and prioritising professional development.

Student mentor programme - providing additional support for students who may be struggling.

Assessment - formative and summative assessment for students to help them reach their full potential.

Encouragement - leading with positive reinforcement to instil confidence within our students.

Future leaders programme - developing skills for TY students.

Reception area/ Main entrance to have a focal point to represent Christian Values

Advent - to mark it?

Formalise Restorative Practice

Collaboration with feeder schools

Ethos presentation by TY students