Being, becoming and beyond SPHE in children and young people's lives

Abstract

This publication captures the breadth and depth of ideas shared during the conference, with a select number of chapters published to enlighten SPHE discourses. Dr Brighid Golden explores how we engage students as active citizens and conceptualises a ‘framework for action’ that schools and teachers can utilise. Dr Gerard Farrelly examines Restorative Practice (RP) as a way of being and argues that SPHE is the vehicle through which RP skills can be fostered. Dr Mia Treacy and Dr Margaret Nohilly provide us with empirical data from the mandated reporting experiences of Designated Liaison Persons in the Irish context, and highlight concerns around a reported lack of confidence. Ellen Corby and Oonagh O’Brien present a study exploring the use of participatory exercises in aiding young people’s understanding of the complexities of sexual wellbeing and relationships. Finally, Rebecca Conlon and Hannah Dolan explore the sensitive issue of bereavement in the primary school classroom, and offer some valuable advice on how to approach it. This broad cross-section of topics illustrates clearly the range of areas covered by SPHE.