IT is a core curricular subject in Junior Cycle. Currently students are prepared to complete the ECDL exams during one period per week. These exams however are the lower benchmark of the expected IT skills and a new curriculum based on coding and programming is currently being developed as a short course (within the framework of the Junior Certificate reform) to replace the ECDL from Setember 2013.
Modules currently on offer in Transition Year focus on computer coding, programming, web design and photoshop. The school also has a Coder Dojo Club to support students with advanced computer skills.
The school has a comprehensive ICT infrastructure which supports the active integration of IT into the teaching and learning process. Classrooms are equipped with laptops, beamers and interactive whiteboards. The school also boasts a fully equipped designated computer room and a mobile computer unit. Wifi is available and access to internet is governed by the acceptable use policy AUP_Policy approved
Students and teachers are encouraged to use IT to communicate core subject content be it in the form of teacher notes or student homework. In line with best educational practice students are encouraged to present and retain project work in digital format.
IPads are soon to be introduced on a phased basis for the following subject areas, English, French, German and Science.The Sage Accounting package is part of the core curriculum for accounting and in Senior Cycle E-books have been introduced in subject areas, Geography and Business Studies.
