On the 11th of May we had a visit from a Department Inspector for an incidental inspection in Digital Learning. The Inspector met with our senior leaders, Ms Slevin and Mr Crosbie, about their new roles and had a great and productive discussion about various school matters.
Next, the Inspector went to visit two classrooms to watch lessons with digital learning in action, Senior Infants and 4th Class. She met with class teachers to give her feedback and was very happy with the teaching and learning that was happening. Levels of engagement were high and she commented on how the children were communicating with each other and actively participating in their own learning. Having reviewed digital learning notes from all teachers, she was confident that similar levels of highly effective practice existed throughout the school.
After that the Inspector discussed the Digital Learning School Plan with Ms O'Kane, who has been the Digital Learning Coordinator since 2019. The Inspector could see clear progression through the school using Digital technologies and recognised the huge amount of work that has happened across the school since digital learning was first the focus of the School Self Evaluation process 6 years ago.
Focus groups were held with a group of parents and children during the day and there was a very positive attitude, and high levels of satisfaction, relayed to her by both groups.
A final meeting with Ms Slevin to go through Child Protection procedures and the overall school plan found everything to be in order and the school in good shape.
While we do not get a written report for this short visit, the school Inspector said that exemplary practice had been seen throughout the school. An incredibly positive experience for Callystown NS!
