Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh joins Castletroy College in being awarded European ‘Digital School’ status for excellence in digital teaching and learning
Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, has been recognised with the prestigious European ‘Digital School’ status for their outstanding contributions in digital teaching and learning. This achievement follows the success of Castletroy College, another Limerick and Clare ETB school, which was awarded the Digital Schools Award in March 2022. Both Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh and Castletroy College are now mentor schools in the Digital Schools Award program, a testament to their commitment to digital innovation in education.
Teachers and students at Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh who took part in the interview process for the European Digital Schools award.
Supported by global technology leaders HP and AMD, in partnership with government and education organisations, the Digital Schools Awards Europe programme promotes digital teaching and learning and recognises schools that are preparing students with essential digital skills for the future.
To earn this award, schools must demonstrate a whole school digital strategy, demonstrate how digital technology enhances learning, and commit to ongoing professional learning for teachers. The programme emphasises innovative and collaborative approaches to digital technology in education, setting an example for other schools to follow.
“We are incredibly proud to have achieved this award,” said Ciara Ní Dhrisceoil, Digital Leader at Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh. “It reflects the hard work of our entire school community and our dedication to enriching learning and teaching.”
Students from Castletroy College celebrate receiving their status as a European ‘Digital School’ in 2022.
Joe Shortt, Digital Learning Coordinator at Castletroy College, added: “We are proud to have contributed to the Digital Schools Awards since as a mentor school, witnessing first hand its transformative impact on schools. We’re thrilled to be part of the Digital Schools Award community and encourage all schools to seize the opportunity the initiative presents. We look forward to continuing as a mentor school with the Digital Schools Award as part of a network of educational professionals that can support each other and learn from one another.”
The Digital Schools Awards programme offers participating schools, which have completed the European Commission’s SELFIE self-reflection survey, access to mentorship and professional development resources. The programme covers key themes such as leadership, collaboration, infrastructure, professional development, teaching and learning, assessment, and student digital competencies.
Donncha O’Treasaigh, Acting Chief Executive of Limerick and Clare ETB, described the Digital Schools Awards as being very beneficial for schools: “I’m really delighted that we’ve been able to support an initiative like this, where the digital innovation of both teachers and students is formally recognised. This award is a testament to Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh’s commitment to providing students with a cutting-edge education and equipping them with advanced digital skills. We are incredibly proud of both Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh and Castletroy College for achieving this recognition and for their dedication to fostering digital excellence in education. Limerick and Clare ETB is committed to supporting all ETB schools in their journey towards digital transformation.”
Digital Leaders from Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board.
During the recent Open Day, where student digital leaders received their Special Recognition Awards, Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh principal Kevin Ó Raghallaigh said: “The Digital Schools Award Europe provides an essential platform for schools to evaluate, develop, and be acknowledged for their digital capabilities. Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh has shown remarkable leadership in integrating digital technology to enhance education. Congratulations to all the teachers and students on this achievement, and we look forward to continuing to drive digital innovation within our school.”
Annmarie Whelan, Education Manager at HP Ireland said: “Digital skills are crucial for the success of young people in today’s increasingly digital world. It is inspiring to see Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh recognised for their commitment to digital teaching and learning, and for equipping students with essential skills for the future.”
Currently, 285 schools in Ireland have registered for the Digital Schools Awards Europe programme. Schools are invited to participate for free by visiting the official website, www.awards4selfie.eu, where they can conduct a self-evaluation of their current practices and standards.
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