Under the Education Act (1998), Section 9(c), post-primary schools in Ireland must use available resources to ensure students have access to appropriate guidance. This Whole-School Guidance Plan provides a comprehensive framework that integrates guidance across all programmes and year groups.
Self-awareness, relationships, wellbeing, resilience
Subject choice, study skills, transitions, pathways
Career exploration, work experience, labour market info
The continuum of support model (All / Some / Few) helps differentiate guidance provision based on student needs.
| Level | Students | Interventions & Support |
|---|---|---|
| ALL Students | Universal provision for entire student body |
|
| SOME Students | Targeted support for identified groups |
|
| FEW Students | Intensive individual support for complex needs |
|
Schools receive a guidance allocation based on PTR adjustments. The following is a recommended distribution model to balance counselling, classroom work, and career activities.
| Activity Type | Recommended % | Hours (Example: 20hr allocation) | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-to-One Counselling | 30-40% | 6-8 hours | Individual appointments, crisis support, personalized planning |
| Classroom Lessons | 25-35% | 5-7 hours | Guidance modules, study skills, subject choice talks |
| Small Group Work | 15-20% | 3-4 hours | CAO workshops, interview skills, career exploration groups |
| Career Events & Admin | 15-20% | 3-4 hours | Higher options, work experience coordination, record-keeping |
Use this template when referring a student to the guidance counsellor.
Complete this checklist at end of school year to evaluate guidance provision.
Help students reflect on their guidance needs and experiences.
Suggested annual schedule of guidance-related meetings and events.
All guidance interactions are confidential except where disclosure is required by law (child protection concerns, risk of harm). Students and parents will be informed of confidentiality limits at the start of guidance relationships.
Student guidance records are securely stored, accessible only to authorized personnel. Data retention follows school policy and legal requirements. Students/parents have the right to access records upon request.
Students may request subject changes within the first 4 weeks of academic year. All change requests require consultation with guidance counsellor, parent consent, and approval from subject teacher and principal.
Guidance staff are mandated persons under Children First Act 2015. Any child protection concerns arising in guidance contexts will be reported to the Designated Liaison Person in accordance with school child safeguarding policy.
Regular monitoring ensures the guidance plan remains effective and responsive to student needs. The following evaluation methods are recommended:
Termly feedback on guidance services
CAO, PLC, apprenticeship progression
Annual consultation evenings
End-of-year evaluation meeting
This Whole-School Guidance Plan template is based on Department of Education policies and Circular 0001/2025. Schools should:
For the most current guidance policies and circulars, visit: gov.ie/education