What happens at Nullamore
Study
Study is a central activity in Nullamore, as good habits of study habits and personal work are very important for the overall formation and development of those participating in activities. Good study abilities form a solid foundation for personal maturity and responsibility. Study is part of the programme of activities for all ages groups in Nullamore, from Primary school boys up to those in their final year of secondary school.
Juniors club: study facilitated before regular club on Saturday afternoons
Seniors club: study rooms open each day
Study Centre: study rooms open each day; study skills course run every Sept
Academy: study always available; students move to university study centre during second term of 6th year
Clubs
Nullamore operates a Junior and Senior club for boys.
The Junior club - Saturday afternoon - Primary school boys - sport, games, woodwork art and animation.
The Senior club - Friday evening - 1st and 2nd year boys - electronics, film, art and music.
In addition to the regular club activities, all of the items below form part of the club agenda for the year...
Sporting excursions & trips
These occur on weekends and during holiday periods, and fit into the overall formation plan as much as any of the regular activities. Day plans include trekking in the hills, river canoeing, bicycle tours, etc. On trips involving overnight stays those participating have an opportunity to spend time with their friends and make new ones, as well as partaking in activities that bring out talents and challenge complacency (whether it be cooking dinner, organising transport logistics or taking on outdoor pursuits!). These periods are an opportunity for the fellows to learn from the leaders present, and they provide an environment in which the leaders can deepen their knowledge of each person and therefore their appreciation of what is best for each one to help them.
Mentoring
Every student, whatever their age, who participates in our activities is assigned a mentor, that is, a trained leaders in the centre who, liasing with the parents and collaborating directly with them, works with the boy to help him personally get the most and improve from the activities and the means of formation the centre offers.
Cultural activities
Numerous cultural activities are organised for all levels in Nullamore, from visits to museums and castles and special cultural events to film appreciation workshops, media courses and get-togethers with guests from different professional backgrounds with interesting experiences to relate. These activities are particularly aimed at secondary school students, and help them to form an a positive interest in the development of the culture of their society and especially that of their own age group.
Sports
Nullamore has a wealth of sporting facilities on its doorstep, including a football pitch, volleyball pitch, tennis court, and basketball court. The Dublin and Wicklow mountains are within easy reach for trekking and more adventurous outdoor pursuits. There is an orienteering club also, and water sports activities during the summer. Participants are helped to see the fun in getting exercise, given a context in which they can develop team skills, practice perseverance and good humour.
Social concern & service projects
Visiting poor and elderly people is a regular activity for most age groups coming around to the centre, be it in a hospital, a nursing home or the person's own house. Activities whereby students can take part in educational outreach programmes for children from disadvantaged areas are also part of the programme. Through contact with persons less off than themselves, or debilitated in some manner, the boys learn how to see the value of what they themselves have and how they can use it for the benefit of others. It also leaves impressions that are important in the development of an active spirit of service in their society.
Service projects abroad are organised during the summer months for older students.