THE guidance counselling department at Horace Clarke High School in St Mary is very busy on any given day of the week.

Guidance Counsellor Rockhel Thompson explained that the department has an open-door policy as the school works to develop student morale.

“The guidance department is like the backbone of the school. This term has been very, very active. We try to make ourselves available. You can just walk in and talk to us. We make ourselves available to every group in the school, including parents and teachers,” Thompson said.

For the current academic year the department has been encouraging students to, through volunteerism, give back to their community. The idea, Thompson said, is to help students “build civic pride”.

One of the major projects the department is undertaking is a Christmas Outreach Programme. Thompson told the Jamaica Observer North & East that students will go into communities to present the elderly with gifts as well as those in need.

The aim is to improve the school’s relationship with the community and to help residents understand the importance of the institution. Thompson said the emphasis is placed on teaching students important values.

Emphasis is also placed on peer counselling, as the school moulds student leaders to address issues.

The school, through its School Wide Positive Behaviour Intervention and Support, is ensuring that children have interactions and support that will positively impact their future.

Heavy focus is placed on achievements with the school’s ‘Brag Board’. Students who excel in various areas are highlighted on this board. The works of past students are also highlighted on this board as a way to motivate students to do well.

“Anything that the students do that promotes high performance, respect and collaboration is posted on the board,” Thompson explained.

She added that her department is helping students to identify their talents through a competition hosted at the school. The aim, Thompson said, is not just to improve academic performance, but to help students find their hidden talents. Students perform in different areas and their peers then vote for their favourites.

“We also use this platform to build confidence,” she stated.

Thompson said the school has been making its mark despite numerous challenges.

“Things are happening here. We do have our challenges, but we try to tunnel through them,” she said, adding that many students struggle to attend school.

As a result, the guidance department has a welfare programme to assist students. Thompson said while the guidance departments in schools may not be seen as significant, they play a major role in the development of students.

“We mould them, build their confidence, and get them to believe in themselves,” she said.

The department has also been working to boost the morale of parents. A number of activities, including parents’ day, have been held this month for them.

Outstanding parents will be awarded this Thursday.