Global Passport

Stamp 5, School Leadership: Part 2.

Complementarity of Existing School Policies with GCE

A whole school approach to GCE ensures that GCE is reflected in all policies. This can involve reviewing, and identifying gaps and opportunities for integrating GCE into existing policies and where possible making amendments to be passed by the governing body. Securing a commitment to GCE with this body and increasing engagement with parent’s community members and organizations is ideal.

Integrating GCE within School Policies – Quick Overview

There are a number of ways in which you can slightly adapt existing policies to have a more GCE focus. Here is a short overview of how you can start working towards integrating GCE in school policy.

Post Primary School Policies – Dept. Education and Skills
The Department of Education and Skills have provided supports to assist schools in developing their individual policies in particular areas of their school plan. They include school reference material for key policy areas. This information can provide a backdrop for creating new GCE policy!

Practical School Examples:

Here are some examples from the applications of Global Passport Awardees. These provide some great examples for what your school can do in this school category:

St. Louis Kilkeel, Clare

GCE is embedded into our school ethos and aims. A section of the School Development Plan for 2015-2016 has, as its major focus Global Citizenship Education and Eco Schools. All departments and staff are required to contribute towards completing a number of objectives related to GCE. Their policy documents and Action Plans will have been amended to reflect this new focus. Training has been provided for all staff (teaching and support) in GCE and many individuals have volunteered to support the work of GCE. Diplomatic Global Passport Award Winner 2016

St. Peters College, Dunboyne

“Currently bringing GCE strategy to school management to devise a GCE Policy in the school. Management also filled out areas they could encourage GCE in the school at the staff meeting. They too were seated together and asked to reflect on their role in GCE implementation” Diplomatic Global Passport Award Winner 2015