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Wellbeing Theme 2025/26: Own It

Stratford TY students kayaking in Delphi Adventure Centre, 2023 Photo: Ms Finnegan
NEWS / 9 September 2025

Last year, our school embraced the theme “Disconnect to Reconnect”, encouraging everyone to step back from screens and build stronger, healthier connections with themselves and others. 

This year, after surveying staff, students, and parents and holding a student focus group. We discovered the main challenges impacting student wellbeing: academic pressure, lack of organisation, and the ups and downs of friendships and social life. In response, we are proud to launch our new wellbeing theme: “Own It.”

“Own It” is about recognising the areas in our lives we can take responsibility for, and learning practical ways to build confidence and resilience. When we own it:

  • Academic Pressure becomes more manageable. Instead of letting stress pile up, students can take small steps—like planning study schedules, asking for help when needed, and celebrating effort as much as achievement.
  • Organisation shifts from being overwhelming to empowering. Owning our time, routines, and responsibilities helps us feel more in control, making each day smoother and less stressful. Having your books, lunch, uniform ready for the following day
  • Friendships and Social Life benefit when we own our choices and actions. Whether it’s being a good friend, setting healthy boundaries, or repairing conflicts, “owning it” means being honest, respectful, and proactive in relationships.
  • Life in General improves as well. From setting goals to bouncing back from mistakes, taking ownership gives us the tools to grow, learn, and feel proud of how we handle challenges.

This theme is about recognising what’s within our control and taking positive steps forward. By choosing to “own it,” we build the resilience, responsibility, and confidence which will empower students in school and in life beyond the classroom.

Ms Finnegan

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General School News, Stratford in the Media / 24 April 2026
Appointment of Delia Donohoe to Permanent Deputy Principal

Appointment of Delia Donohoe to Permanent Deputy Principal

Delia Donohoe has been appointed as Permanent Deputy Principal of Stratford College, following her tenure as Acting Deputy Principal since August 2023. This milestone marks her 21st year as a dedicated member of the Stratford community, where she has made a lasting contribution both in the classroom and in leadership.

Speaking about her appointment Chair of the Board of Management Ms. Aoife Cassidy said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Delia as Deputy Principal; she has been a leader and teacher at Stratford College for more than 20 years. During this time, she has served in an acting capacity as Deputy Principal, including over the last three years. She has strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment and dedication to our school community. We have every confidence that she will continue to lead with the same energy, warmth and dedication in the years ahead. We are delighted to formally confirm Delia’s appointment and wish her every success in the role going forward.


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