The basis.point Showcase Event is always one of our favourite dates in the calendar!
This year, we were particularly thrilled to take part, as we had the opportunity to highlight the KiVa Anti-Bullying Programme. We were delighted to be joined on the night by staff and students from St Mary’s Junior National School, Rowlagh, Clondalkin, one of our fantastic KiVa schools.
KiVa Programme Manager, Eimear Collins, reinforced the importance of an evidence based, practical anti bullying programme, particularly in the context of Irish research showing that approximately 25% of students in Irish primary schools have experienced bullying.
Sarah McDonald, KiVa Coordinator and Deputy Principal of St. Mary’s Junior National School talked about the experience of implementing the KiVa Programme in their school; how well the programme fits into their school culture; and how the programme has supported and harnessed relationships with students and families.
The stars of the show were undoubtedly Cleo, Georgia, Isabelle, Lily, Sienna and Sommer – six students from 2nd class in St. Mary’s. Isabelle told everyone how she likes being a KiVa School because it makes her feel safe and happy. Georgia explained that since becoming a KiVa School her and her classmates don’t stay quiet if something is wrong, and they try to make sure that no-one is left out at school. Then, fresh from performing at the Peace Proms Concert in the RDS, and using Irish Sign Language throughout, all six girls sang and signed a powerful and emotive version of Sia’s Courage to Change, led by teacher Stephanie Fields. The song lyrics were a powerful reminder of the need for unity in overcoming struggles, a key message of the KiVa Anti-Bullying Programme.
🎵 You’re not alone in all this, You’re not alone, I promise, Standing together we can do anything 🎵
For us, the showcase is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the work that we do, work that is only possible because of basis.point funding. But it is also about much more. It is about connecting with the broader basis.point community – staff, board members, patrons, supporters, and other charity partners. The feedback and conversations we had throughout the evening were motivating and invaluable.
Thanks to basis.point for giving us the platform to show how and why your continued support matters! And thanks to HSBC for hosting.
