Schools of Distinction
The School of Distinction award scheme aims to support the development of 'college-going' practices and student-centred, innovative learning environments across schools nationwide, particularly within schools where there is a low progression rate to post-secondary education.
We aim to recognise and showcase the efforts of schools nationwide to transform their school culture and to develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
The scheme recognises the often extraordinary work being successfully undertaken by schools in challenging conditions and with limited resources. This is achieved through the implementation of our three core practices - Pathways to College, Mentoring, and Leadership in Learning.
It encourages participants to draw on their own school and community resources and the resources of the Trinity Access project in Trinity College Dublin to support educational innovation and change. There is a strong focus on schools within the Delivering Equality of opportunity In Schools scheme (DEIS) and Schools Completion Programme.
Each new School of Distinction participants is supported in their work through:
- 2 consultation meetings with our teacher fellows
- Access to resources that support the implementation of our 3 core practices on thestaffroom.ie where our Practitioners Guide can also be downloaded
- Ongoing CPD opportunities including the Post Graduate Certificate in 21st Century Teaching and Learning
- Community of Practice activities including conference, teachmeet, and staffroom chats
- Regular news through our Staffroom Mailer