A highly qualified staff delivers the Primary Schools laid down by the Dept. of Education and Skills 1999. At all class levels there is an emphasis on the acquisition of knowledge and the development of concepts and skills. The curriculum is presented in seven curriculum areas some of which are further subdivided into subjects.
Development of literacy and numeracy skills are crucial as they are at the core of effective successful learning in all curricular areas. At the junior end of the school, there is particular emphasis on literacy and numeracy development. Boys avail of the extensively stocked library to develop reading and comprehension skills.
Assessment
The Curriculum identifies assessment a being integral to all areas of the curriculum. It helps communication between the progress between the teacher and the child, the teacher and parents and teacher and teacher. It enables the child to become increasingly self aware as learner and to development techniques of self assessment. It is essential to ensure that an ongoing high stand of education is maintained. In the Junior School, assessment ranges from informal assessment which includes teacher observation, classwork, and homework, to more formal assessment in the form of teacher designed tests, diagnostic tests and standardised tests. All pupils from First to Sixth Form are given standardised tests in English and Mathematics every May. In addition to traditional assessment of knowledge, pupils are also assessed on their acquisition of skills, attitudes and values.
From Junior Infants upwards, parents receive Christmas and summer reports. From First form upwards, parents also receive Progress card in October and March. Parent/ teacher meetings are held each November but parents are always welcome to meet with their son's class teacher to discuss progress by appointment.
Assessment is used to identify children with specific learning difficulties so that the appropriate steps can be taken to ensure progress is achieved despite difficulties which exist.
Learning Support
Our highly experienced Learning Support and Resource teachers offer group and individualised teaching to boys who have been identified as having specific learning difficulties or who may simply need short term additional help.
Information Technology
Computer and other items of information and communication technologies enrich the teaching of subjects considerably. The curriculum advises the integration of I.T. into all subject areas and recognises that technological skills are important for advancement in education, work and leisure. All classrooms have interactive whiteboards. Our Computer timetable and I.T. plan ensures that pupils will have the opportunity to develop competency in I. T. during their time in the school. Developed I.T. skills e.g. word-processing, data handling etc. is integrated into all subjects to support all aspects of the primary curriculum. Skills developed at a young age will benefit pupils for the remainder of their education and beyond.
Independent Whole School Evaluation
During February 2020, the Junior School undertook an Independent Whole School Evaluation. This evaluation was carried out by two former Inspectors from the Department of Education and Skills and is available to read in the attachment below.
Independent Whole School Evaluation