Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
When will the school open?
We hope that the school will open September 2010, and certainly no later that 2011.
Is there Religious education?
Yes, there is. The students are taught about all beliefs and none, and can opt for religious instruction outside school hours if they wish. There is a strong ethos in our cross-curricular programme Learn Together. For more information on the ethos and values that are instilled in our students, click here.
When will preenrolment begin?
Pre-enrolment will start early 2009, after the enrolment policy has been finalized.
Where will the school be?
That depends on a number of factors such as availability of sites, co-operation from South Dublin County Council, zoning and planning issues etc. It is hoped the school will be built (or redeveloped, in case of an empty industrial building that might be available) in or very near to Lucan.
How can I help?
First of all you can put pressure on our local and national politicians.Click here.
Also, you can donate money (or time!) or join the Taskforce. Contact any of us and we will be more than willing to talk to you.
Do I have to pay fees?
No. The ethos of the school commands equal access to all. Of course it does cost a lot of money to run a school, so you may be asked for a voluntary contribution.
Is there an entrance exam?
No. A confidential student profile will be drawn up, consisting of the standardized tests of the last two years in primary school, the end of 5th year school reports and the 6th class Xmas report, as well as a multiple intelligence test. This profile will be used to determine the student’s best teaching and learning methods.
What size will the school be?
The school will accommodate between 1200 and 2000 students, depending on the decision of the Department for Education and Science. The school must have enough places for the pupils of the 5 Educate Together national schools (which in time will be 250 students per year), but it will also need to provide places for the wider community (it is a well known fact that there is a substantial need for additional second-level places in the Lucan area.
Can I have any input into the school?
Of course you can! Nothing is set in stone at this point in time, so email us with your suggestions and comments.Once the school is there, you can join the Board, the PTA, the policy sub-committees or help provide parent-led workshops
What are multiple intelligences?
A man named Howard Gardner has identified 8 different intelligences, Everyone is strong in some and weaker in other intelligences. They influence how people learn, how they should be taught and what they are naturally good at. Read more. .
What is the MI test?
A MI (multiple intelligence) test is a list of questions which help you find out how you are smart. If teachers know where the student’s strengths lie and how the student learns best, they can cater to the individual students needs and help the student reach his/her full potential.