AEN

Supportive, Inclusive & Empowering

At Holy Child Killiney, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to flourish in a supportive, inclusive, and empowering learning environment.

Our Additional Educational Needs (AEN) provision is rooted in the belief that all students, regardless of their individual learning profiles, should be equipped with the tools and encouragement they need to succeed.

A Holistic, Student-Centred Approach

We take a student-centred and strengths-based approach to learning support. Whether a student has a specific learning difficulty, requires short-term academic support, or benefits from extension and enrichment, we work closely with families and teachers to create tailored support strategies that meet each student’s unique needs.

We recognise that no two learners are alike. Our approach is centred on the goal of enabling all students to engage fully with academic challenge and the joy of learning.

Early Identification and Ongoing Support

AEN support begins before students even enter First Year. We engage with feeder primary schools, analyse entrance assessments, and consult with parents to ensure a smooth transition and early identification of support needs. Throughout their time at HCK, students’ progress is continuously monitored, and supports are adjusted as needed.

Our Support in Practice

Our AEN department provides a range of targeted supports, including:

  • Small-group and one-to-one learning support

  • Assistance with literacy, numeracy, organisation, and study skills

  • In-class strategies developed in collaboration with subject teachers

  • Guidance on Reasonable Accommodations in state exams (RACE)

  • Support for students with official psychological or educational assessments

 We recognise that additional needs come in many forms and may evolve over time. Our flexible and responsive approach allows us to support each student with creativity, compassion, and understanding. Within a culture of openness and trust, we encourage students to build confidence in their abilities, feel capable in their learning, and experience a genuine sense of success and accomplishment.

A Culture of Belonging and Encouragement

Above all, we aim to foster a culture of belonging in which every student feels seen, supported, and capable of achieving her personal best. The AEN team works in partnership with students, parents, and staff to ensure that learning differences are understood not as limitations, but as part of the rich diversity that defines our school community.

Through compassionate support and high expectations, we empower each student to recognise her strengths, take pride in her progress, and grow in confidence — always grounded in the belief:
“Be yourself, but let that self be all that God wants it to be.”