November University of Galway honours seven schools as Champions of Sanctuary

University of Galway has recognised seven primary and secondary schools for their outstanding commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for all students.

The awards ceremony was held at the University’s Institute for Lifecourse and Society, celebrating the official designation of the seven schools as Champion Schools of Sanctuary.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a "Learn, Action, Share" framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice and build understanding about forced migration. These schools demonstrated actively embedding inclusion across the school community.

The seven designated Champion Schools of Sanctuary are:

• Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway
• Galway Educate Together Secondary School
• Ballyhaunis Community School, Co. Mayo
• Brusna National School, Co. Roscommon
• Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Limerick
• Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo
• Ballinlough National School, Co. Roscommon

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre at University of Galway, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership. The event underscores the University’s commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said: “At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging - not only across our campus, but within the wider education system. The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.”

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre at University of Galway, said: “At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education. The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit - it’s about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. We’re proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isn’t just encouraged, it’s lived every day.”

Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said: “Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student. I’m proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.”

Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, said: “In a current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these seven schools is timely. These schools have made a commitment to ensuring their school shines as a beacon of inclusion, welcome and equality.”

Dr. Veronica Crosbie, Chairperson of Places of Sanctuary Ireland, said: “This awards ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic integration initiatives happening across the Irish educational landscape, often quietly under the radar of local and national media.”

The awards ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Access Centre at University of Galway, and Galway City Partnership.

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