Kingswood school scoops top award from Trinity Access

Kingswood Community School, has been recognised by Trinity Access, Trinity College Dublin, for their ongoing work in creating a college-going culture in their school.

Although the school is only in existence since 2016, the staff, and particularly the School of Distinction Committee, has worked tirelessly to embrace a culture of further education for all in the community.

Guidance counsellor, Maeve McCarthy said: “We are very grateful to Trinity Access for awarding us this nationwide accolade and for the support we have received over the past year of our involvement.

“Winning the School of Distinction: Community award recognises the ongoing work of our staff and students, showcasing how we promote and develop ‘college-going’ practices and a student-centred, innovative learning environment.”

The Schools of Distinction Award, conferred by Trinity Access, Trinity College Dublin, recognises and showcases 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.

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.

This School of Distinction Community Award, recognises the achievement of schools who have joined the Community of Practice and engaged in a process of evaluating and identifying the needs of their students and teachers through a School Survey.

Schools that win this award have begun the process of engaging their students in the three core practices of Pathways to College, Mentoring, and Leadership in Learning and have plans to expand these innovative programmes in the future.

Cliona Hannon, Director of Trinity Access said: “We are delighted to recognise the innovative, leadership and community focused work that these schools have achieved in an extraordinary year. We hope to share the learning from these beacons of creativity with all our other school partners. A warm congratulations from all in Trinity Access for your courageous and creative leadership.”