Speaking after the visit the Minister said: “I want to congratulate St Mary’s on its new status as a designated Specialist Maths school. Specialist schools aim to assist in raising standards and tackling the barriers to learning by developing those areas in which the school is already strong and expanding it to other areas of the curriculum.
“I know that by promoting co-operation and collaboration and building links with surrounding schools St Mary’s will ensure that this good practice is shared by all. Their increased collaboration with local businesses and the community will also give pupils increased access to new expertise and learning experiences.
“Mar Aire Oideachais, is é an aidhm atá agam ná chun díriú ar mórcheisteanna mar – ag soláthar oideachais d’ardchaighdeán, ag aithint na héagsúlachta atá le sonrú inár sochaí agus ag cothú comhionannais sa soláthar do na daoine óga AR FAD.
“As Minister for Education, my agenda is to focus on a number of issues including - delivering a quality education, recognising diversity and promoting equality of provision for all our young people.
“I am determined that every young person in our post-primary schools will have not just access to, but an entitlement to, a range of courses that can meet their needs and aspirations and lead them into further and higher education, training and employment. I want to thank all the pupils and staff here at St Mary’s who have made me feel so welcome today. Finally I want to wish the Principal Margo Cosgrove and her team every success for the future.”
Notes to Editors:
Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
