Secondary schools: Inspection reports released yesterday by the Department of Education have highlighted the need for greater use of the internet in secondary schools.
Some 173 post-primary school inspection reports were released covering individual subjects and Whole School Evaluations.
The mild-mannered assessments highlighted the positive work of schools and focused on recommendations to help build on school strengths within the limitations of available facilities.
Many of the reports included recommendations for the improved use of information and communications technology across a range of subjects.
What the reports say: selected extracts
Meánscoil Na mBráithre, CBS, Ennistymon, Co Clare
The school's "values of care and community" were highlighted. The report recommended that the purposes for which the hours allocated to vocational guidance are being used should be clearly outlined as part of a whole school plan and that professional development should form part of the school guidance plan.
St Aidan's CS, Tallaght, Co Dublin
The report highlighted the support for science and biology in the school. It recommended that "careful thought be given to planning the use of the blackboard when preparing lessons in order to maximise its effectiveness".
Ballincollig CS, Co Cork
The school's strengths include "an attitude of care and support for students in keeping with the aims of the school". It recommends that "consideration should be given to the possibility that the choice of Leaving Certificate subjects be made in transition year rather than in third year".
Carrick VS, Carrick, Co Donegal
The science element of this school was highlighted. The report said "most notebooks observed [in science] were of a good standard" and showed evidence of having been checked. It recommended that "this practice be adopted in all science classes".
St Catherine's VS, Killybegs, Co Donegal
Included in the strengths for this school were the "neat and tidy" technical graphics workshops and the "well planned" lessons. It was recommended that management should explore ways of encouraging more girls to study the subject.
Bush Post-Primary School, Riverstown, Co Louth
Resources were praised, particularly the provision of information and communications technology. The school was also praised for its use of Individual Education Plans. However, absenteeism was a concern.
Scoil Phobail, Clifden, Co Galway
The school was commended for the "excellent rapport between students and teachers evident in all lessons observed". But it said "the entire syllabus in technical drawing is not covered in the scheme of work for Leaving Certificate", and "the level of homework assigned to students varies considerably".
