Dunamase College have been chosen as a lead school on a three year National Digital Excellence in Schools project which is part of a scheme established to support innovation and excellence in the education system.
It supports schools in working together on innovative projects to enhance teaching and learning using digital technology.
The Dunamase College project will involve using technology and innovation to improve mathematics education in the transition from primary school to post primary school.
Dunamase College will be working with two primary feeder schools in the town, Scoil Bhríde and Gaelscoil Phortlaoise in this exciting project. They will also be coordinating with schools in Offaly and Kildare.
In Offaly the Sacred Heart Secondary school will be working with St Philomena’s National School and Scoil Mhuire in Tullamaore.
In Kildare town, the Community School will be collaborating with St Brigid’s Primary School and Kildare Town Educate Together primary school.
The project is supported by the Education Centres in Laois and Kildare and is being guided by the work of Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin (UCD) , Dr Mark Prendergast (TCD) and Dr Paul Grimes (DCU).
Aoife Elster, Principal in Dunamase College is delighted to be involved with this project.
She said: “Here in Dunamase College we place great emphasis on innovation in education. Our use of technology coupled with the school commitment to professional development helps us to maximise learning for our students.
“Transition from primary school to post primary school can be difficult for many students and this project supports our strategy to ease this transition for young people.
“International studies show that providing strands of continuity between the two levels increases student learning in the early years at second level and decreases levels of anxiety and stress in students.
“The use of technology and electronic portfolios fits with our technological focus and the learning methodologies required for the new Junior Cycle”
Speaking at the announcement of the project Paul Fields, Director of Schools for LOETB stated that: “Dunamase College’s innovative approach to teaching and learning are at the heart of the school and the project is a recognition of that creativity and excellence.
“I wish to congratulate all involved and look forward to seeing the students embrace the concepts and engage in learning in a fun and creative manner, using information technology.”
Dunamase College is still accepting enrolments for the coming years and an information evening for parents of students starting in August 2018 will be held in the school on April 25 at 7pm.
SEE ALSO – €1.3million social housing scheme opens in Mountrath
