On Friday 20th March, our whole school community came together to support Show Racism the Red Card – Wear Red Day. It was a great opportunity to stand together and show our commitment to respect, inclusion and equality for all. Show Racism the Red Card is an international campaign that uses the power of sport to help educate young people about racism and how to challenge it. By taking part and wearing red, we are sending a clear message that racism has no place in our school or in society.

As a school involved in the School of Sanctuary Ireland (SOSI) programme, we are working to build a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for everyone, especially those seeking sanctuary. As part of our journey towards Champion School status, we are focusing on taking meaningful action, giving students a strong voice, and sharing our work with the wider community.

One of the highlights was a student-led video competition, where students shared powerful messages about diversity and belonging. Our SOSI Student Team took the lead in promoting the day, creating a diversity and inclusion video which was shared across our social media platforms. You can view their video here. They also made and distributed red ribbons throughout the day, giving students and staff another simple but powerful way to show their support and spark conversations around the message of the campaign.

As part of the week’s activities, all Form Classes renewed their School of Sanctuary pledge. Students reflected on what it means to seek sanctuary and recommitted to supporting newcomers in our school, as well as sharing these values with others. This was a meaningful way to bring the SOSI themes of Learn, Action and Share to life across the whole school, with students actively engaging in each step. This work was supported and guided by our School of Sanctuary Staff Team, who continue to work alongside students to create opportunities for learning, action and sharing across the school community.

On the day itself, staff wore red and students came to school in their PE uniform with red accessories, creating a strong sense of unity and support throughout the school.

Taking part in initiatives like this helps us to continue building a school where everyone feels welcome, respected and included, while also showing the actions we are taking as part of our journey towards SOSI Champion School status. A huge well done and thank you to all our students and staff for the great effort shown. Together, we continue to build a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all.