Pictures: Student leadership stands out at Cork school's open night 

The importance of student leadership at St Peter's Community School was apparent when the Passage West school held its recent open day. 

School principal, Tony McSweeney said that students played a key role on the night. 

“Our students gave demonstrations to the different groups. They really stood out on the night as excellent ambassadors for the school. 

"Each student and parent had the option of a student-led tour around the school whereby they got to see all the facilities in the school and chat with the teachers about the different subjects," Mr McSweeney said. 

An interactive event

“Teachers in the different subjects such as home economics, woodwork and engineering did demonstrations. We also brought a fun element into the night. We had a few fun competitions in the PE Hall, and we made it a very interactive night. We wanted the parents and the students to see the whole side of St Peter’s,” he added.

“We were delighted to see students from more primary schools attending,” said Mr McSweeney. “This is a testament to the school’s strong reputation and the hard work from all our staff members. We pride ourselves on academic excellence. It is our foundation. We are a school that ensures that each student that comes through the school has the skills, knowledge, and capabilities to be successful in whatever avenue they pursue in life.” 

There were several speeches made on the night.

“Our deputy principal outlined all our about pastoral care structure, while students from both the senior and junior cycle spoke about their experience in the school. I also spoke about the wonderful opportunities that exist in St Peter’s and what we stand for as a school," he added. 

'A great success'

The secondary school principal said the night was a great success overall. 

“The night went very well. There was a great atmosphere. We were delighted with the very strong turnout. The feedback from the visiting students and their parents/guardians was very positive. They commented on the warm atmosphere and the positive relationships between the students and the staff,” Mr McSweeney said.

“We have a great school community. The school has a great history. There is a huge spirit in the school. Student leadership is central to what we do in St Peter’s and that really shone through on the night,” he added.