Kerry school’s new chapter as it shifts away from Catholic ethos to provide greater inclusivity

The history of North Kerry’s Lyreacrompane Primary School can add another chapter to its annals this week after the school announced that they are to become Kerry Education and Training Board’s (Kerry ETB’s) fourth Community National School (CNS).

In what has been described as a “significant move”, this decision by the school marks a shift from its previous Catholic ethos to a multidenominational one, aimed at offering greater inclusivity and choice to families within the community and wider area.

In explaining the motivation behind the decision, here’s what Principal Eilish Lyons had to say:

“Locally, there was a lot of support for it. Many of our families have different religions, and we wanted to offer choice to everyone. We are a changing Ireland,” she said, emphasising the collaborative nature of the decision making process.

It was taken, she said, with the involvement of parents, the Board of Management as well as the Kerry Diocese with the reaction being a positive one.

The transition is not merely a symbolic shift but also carries profound implications for the school’s educational philosophy and values. While the curriculum remains unchanged, the introduction of the Goodness Me Goodness You Programme reflects a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Eilish elaborated on this, noting:

“We currently have children that do not take part in our religion classes, they do other work, and now they will be fully included in our school day. The primary school curriculum is the same as all other schools but the Goodness Me Goodness You which is the 30 minute per day patrons programme enables the holistic development of the child, supporting them to grow and flourish as active participants in their learning and in their communities.”

The teaching methodologies will also see a shift towards greater emphasis on philosophy and critical thinking.

Ann O’Dwyer, Director of School, Youth, and Music at Kerry ETB, mentioned the importance of nurturing these skills from an early age.

“A community national school aims to facilitate pupils’ thinking and debating skills and to facilitate their understanding of their own ideas and those of others,” she explained, adding “philosophy helps children to reflect and think deeply about their place in their community, society, and globally.”

Regarding staffing and leadership, the transition will involve support and training from Kerry ETB for current staff. While there will be no changes to the school’s facilities, the long-term vision is to develop the school further, potentially extending services such as a bus route from a local town if there are 10 or more pupils who would use the service.

There will be increased choice and new learning opportunities for pupils, both academically and socially. Measures will be in place to support students who have strong ties to the Catholic tradition of the school, including supporting Communion and Confirmation preparation after school.

If you would like to enquire about places in the school feel free to contact the Principal Eilish Lyons on (068) 48233 or email [email protected].

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