Portlaoise College has been recognised by Trinity Access Programmes (TAP), Trinity College Dublin, for their ongoing work in creating a college-going culture in their school.
The Schools of Distinction Award is conferred by TAP, Trinity College Dublin, which this year celebrates 30 years working with schools and organisations to increase participation from under-represented groups at third-level.
Established in 2017, Schools of Distinction recognises and celebrates the efforts of schools nationwide to transform their school culture and develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
This School of Distinction: Transformation Award recognises schools that have embedded a vibrant college-going culture, transforming school vision, perceptions and expectations.
Transformation Award winners have established the 3 core practices of Pathways to College, Mentoring and Leadership in Learning as fundamental to their whole school culture.
Innovative and student-centred teaching and learning is a priority with teachers leading and supporting a Community of Practice within their own school and the wider Trinity Access community.
Transformation Award winners actively engage in a process of reflection, using school data and current research to inform their whole school planning and target setting.
This award scheme aims to support the development of ‘college-going’ practices and a student-centred, innovative learning environment across schools nationwide.
Portlaoise College was particularly successful in hosting a Careers Evening for 6th Years and their parents.
The event was a joint effort between the College’s Guidance Department and the Parents’ Council.
Initially, the guidance team had worked alongside the students and devised a list of careers that students sought information on.
The Guidance Team invited those in the local community who work in various fields of employment to volunteer their time and give talks on their careers to the students.
6th-year student Callen Dunne said that he was amazed by the number of people who had given up their time to come into the college to give talks on their careers.
He was thankful to them as he felt it was a massive help in deciding what he would do after his Leaving Cert.
Guidance Counsellor, Daryl Egan said: “We are delighted to be part of a nationwide movement to promote the importance of post-secondary education.
“Winning the School of Distinction: Transformation award recognises the ongoing work of our staff and students.”
The new director of TAP, Wendy Crampton said: “It is wonderful to begin a new role with an organisation that carries a rich history of working with schools.
“I want to congratulate all the Schools of Distinction Awardees on their achievements.
“These schools work tirelessly to embed a college-going culture inspiring their young people to recognise their full potential.”
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