Beneavin school honoured with prestigious award

Beneavin De La Salle has won the School of Distinction: Innovation award from Trinity College Dublin for its student-centred approach in creating a college-going culture for its students.

The Dublin school received praise from the Trinity Access judges for the range of mentoring activities available across the school as well as its vibrant College Awareness Week celebrations.

Beneavin De La Salle was particularly successful in helping Leaving Certificate students prepare for the transition to college through its recently introduced teacher-student mentoring programme. The school was also commended for its initiatives for students in junior cycle.

These included Beneavin De La Salle’s Belonging Plus programme and peer-mentoring, both of which are aimed at supporting all First Year students in what can be a difficult time as they make the step from primary school to secondary school.

The regular sharing of effective teaching and learning practices by teachers, support from management for teachers to undertake professional development and investment in technology in Beneavin De La Salle were also highlighted as areas of strength.

Beneavin De La Salle’s Guidance Counsellor, David Murphy, was thrilled with the school’s achievement.

“Winning the School of Distinction: Innovation award recognises the ongoing work of our students and staff. We are delighted to be part of a nationwide movement to promote the importance of post-secondary education”, he said.

The Director of Trinity Access, Cliona Hannon described the school as a “beacon of creativity”.

“We are delighted to recognise the innovative, leadership and community focused work these schools have achieved in an extraordinary year. A warm congratulations from all in Trinity Access for your courageous and creative leadership”, she stated.

Beneavin De La Salle’s Principal, Dr Aideen Cassidy, expressed her pride in the staff for their efforts. “This is a huge acknowledgement of the hard work of the staff and their commitment to our students. We are so aware of the amazing potential of the boys and we want to encourage and support them in every way to access College and enjoy the benefits in their lives. They really deserve it,” she stated.

The Schools of Distinction Award, conferred by Trinity Access, Trinity College Dublin recognises and showcases the efforts of schools nationwide to transform their schools culture and develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

The Innovation Award recognises the creative and innovative ways that schools are embedding a college-going culture.