Coliste Pobal Caslen Cnucha

CASTLEKNOCK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Principals Message

Castleknock Community College is part of the County Dublin Vocational Education Committee (Co. Dublin VEC) and was established in 1995. Our College is a co-educational post-primary school catering to an ever increasing population growth within the greater Castleknock area. A comprehensive academic curriculum is promoted in addition to a wide-ranging programme of extra-curricular activities. Conscious that our College is situated in an area where education is valued and expectations are high, the challenge has been to set standards which will command the respect and the pride of the community. Aspiring towards excellence, creating high expectations, developing a holistic approach to education and instilling a sense of pride and respect among parents, pupils and staff are among our goals. Mol and ige agus Tiocfaidh S underlines our philosophy of fostering self-esteem, a positive attitude towards learning, the promotion of responsible behaviour and the encouragement of dignity and respect in all our endeavour. The philosophy of Castleknock Community College is one of inclusiveness in which the College supports the principles of partnership, equality of access and participation in the school. We respect diversity, parental choice and equality. Parental involvement in all aspects of our development is an essential and appreciated part of our College. Parents are represented on the Board of Management and there is a vibrant Parents Association. We are very proud of our academic success in the Leaving and Junior Certificate examinations. The College has created its own awards scheme, known as the Academic Excellence Awards, which recognises students for their high academic achievement of five hundred points or more in their Leaving Certificate results. These results have been acknowledged by the Universities, which, in turn have awarded Entrance Scholarships to many of our students. Castleknock Community College will always strive for greater achievement. It prides itself in providing a high quality education to all its students, inspiring them to develop their abilities to the full but conscious of the potential for further developments. All who are associated with our College are focused on its success and on providing a quality education for the youth of the community which we serve.

John Cronin Principal

Contents
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2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 13 17

Preface

College Mission Statement & Educational Aims Board of Management Members 2003 2006 College Details Funding

Good Behaviour Code Student Leadership

Promoting a Safe Environment Social & Personal Development Learning Support Department

14-16 Guidance & Counselling

18-19 The Role of the Learning Support Department 20-21 Student Enrichment Programme 22 23 26 Celebrating Academic Success Language Centre

24-25 The Chaplaincy Team 27-32 Educational Programmes Parental Involvment

(i) Junior Cycle Programme

(ii) Transition Year Programme

(iii) Leaving Certificate (Traditional) (v) Leaving Certificate Applied (vi) Class Size & Level 33 36 (vii) Class Structures

(iv) Leaving Cert Vocational Programme

34-35 Castleknock Community College The First Decade Adult Education Evening Classes

Extra Curricular Activities

Educational Aims

To enable and encourage the full growth and development of each student intellectually, creatively, physically, morally and socially. To create a caring, safe and supportive environment in which each student will have the opportunity to fully develop her/his aptitudes and talents. To promote gender equity, self-awareness and responsible attitudes on personal relationships, while encouraging dignity and respect in all our endeavours. To foster consultation and the involvement of parents in the development of school policies, and its social and recreational activities. To engender feelings of self-esteem and the creation of sensitive, caring and politically aware members of society. To create opportunities for parents and other adults to further their academic or social education by the provision of a community education programme. To aspire towards excellence in all areas of work and involvement, thus promoting an image and a reputation for our college, which will command the respect and the pride of the community. To be true to our motto Mol an Oige and Tiocfaidh Si and thus instil a feeling of self-esteem within all students. To provide a pastoral care programme that is central to the life of the college. To provide for the cultural and aesthetic needs of the community through the arts.

atement ission St our community M ds of

all the nee nd staff, in In serving rents a ellence e pupils, pa we, th owards exc aspire t ment. endeavours our ive environ support ugh cocaring and in a loping thro d deve realise growing an By ble all to will ena ation this oper tential. heir full po t

The Board of Management Members

Ms Rose Callan (Cathaoirleach) Cllr. David McGuinness Cllr. Michael Donovan Sean MacNioclis Margaret Lucey Sonia Murray Rev Paul Houston Fergus Dwyer Anne Duggan Gillian Walsh Paul McCorry John Cronin (Principal) Co. Dublin VEC Co. Dublin VEC Co. Dublin VEC Archbishop of Dublin (R.C.) Archbishop of Dublin (R.C.) Archbishop of Dublin (R.C.) Archbishop of Dublin (Cof I) Parents Representative Parents Representative Teaching Staff Teaching Staff Secretary, Board of Management

School Details
Castleknock Community College Carpenterstown Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15.
Contact Details Telephone: Fax: E-Mail: 01-8221626 01- 8221630 admin@castleknockcc.ie 76062B Mr. John Cronin Ms Carmel ONeill Mr. John Hopkins Ms Eileen Crowley Mr Brendan Bennett Ms Ruth OHiggins Ms Mary Ryan Mr. Paul Brogan Ms Fiona Clancy Mr. Paul McCorry Ms Caroline OBrien Ms Margaret Lawlor Mr. James Troy Ms Anne Quinn Mon Fri Wednesday: 8.50 a.m. - 3.45 p.m. 8.50 a.m. 1.40 p.m.

School Roll No Principal Deputy Principals Guidance Counsellors State Examination Secretary Learning Support Co-ordinator Language Centre Coordinator Extra-Curricular Co-ordinators Adult Education Director Senior Administrator Caretakers School Hours

College Uniform
Available from Grants of Manor Street. Ph: 01- 6791626 Please contact the College Secretary for details regarding book and uniform grants.

Funding

The Co Dublin V.E.C., voluntary contributions and fund raising, provides for the financial and teaching resources of the College. The voluntary contribution is an annual donation made by families to support the Sports, Social and Cultural Fund. This money is invested in extracurricular programmes and the environment of the College. An additional cost is incurred for students of The Transition Year Programme, which offsets the cost of running extracurricular and outdoor education courses. Sports Social & Cultural Fund Payments: 1. 2. 3. Contributions are subject to annual review. These contributions are voluntary. Parent(s)/ Guardian(s) may contact the Principal / Deputy Principals of the College in strictest confidence if they have any concerns regarding payment of the above. The contributions requested will be outlined to Parent(s)/ Guardian(s) at time of enrolment.

The Sports

ion Card I.D./ Registrat Badge ent Student Name -visual equipm mputer/audio ditional co Purchase of ad s (es) school Minibu and upkeep of Maintenance iations s Sports Assoc n fees to variou Affiliatio blication Year Book Pu Arts Festival/ ent Awards/Stud rophies/ Sports Purchase of T Scheme Merit Award gs eacher meetin s Re: Parent/T Expense ents Students/Par ery/ Expenses Office/ Station . oom resources dditional classr A rary facilities Upgrading Lib ublications Information P

ural Fund co , Social & Cult

ntributes towar

ds:

Note: If (a) Parent(s)/ Guardian(s) of a pupil decide(s) that they do not wish to accept the offer of a place in the College for the next academic year then 50% will be retained for expenses incurred in the organisations of the enrolment process.

I.T. Developments at the College Supporting the Knowledge Economy

Castleknock Community College has invested significantly in IT since it opened in 1995. The College has been at the forefront of developing systems that have served to enhance the quality of teaching and learning and communication. In September 2009 Castleknock Community College was recognised as one of the leading IT Schools in Ireland when it was selected as one of seventy-eight schools in Ireland to participate in the NCTEs 100mb Initiative. The roll out of Windows Live allows teachers to email students in relation to their studies. Each student in the College is issued with their own personal email account. This exciting initiative has a dual purpose; not only does it improve the quality of communication it also serves as a storage facility through the online storage space that each student can access. The launch of e-portal which allows parents to log on to their childs home page which records all her/his details at the College. The information allows parents to check on attendance, academic progress and teaching groups. It also supports the tracking programme in the school as students target assessments are recorded on their homepage. The Swipe Card system captures each students attendance record on a daily basis. In April 2010 Castleknock Community College became one of the first schools in Ireland to launch the NCTEs 100mb broadband. In March 2010 we installed twenty media projectors as a result of the 100mb initiative. Funding has also been secured to install additional interactive projector throughout the school. This investment has enhanced significantly the teaching and learning at the College. We have acquired thirty additional laptops which will be available on laptop trollies and will enable students to work on line in the classroom and other learning centres throughout the College. By 2011 the College is committed to investing significantly in further IT initiatives. We will be installing a number of interactive digital projectors, e-beam technology and visualisers which are exciting investments that will significantly enhance the quality of teaching and learning in the classroom.

B Ar An Sl Ceart The Good Behaviour Code

MEAS - RESPECT Encourage and support your fellow students. Show courtesy. Be a friend. Be respectful. Behave in a polite and mannerly fashion to everyone you meet in your college. Be helpful to visitors. Wear your school uniform with pride and always remember that you are an ambassador for your college.

AIRE - HEALTH & SAFETY Make safety and health a priority. Obey all safety instructions moving about the school, entering and leaving the building, especially in the event of a fire. Note safety instructions in all rooms, and in particular in practical classrooms. Travel with care to and from school. Be responsible when using public transport. Wear the proper safety gear when cycling to and from school. Take care of your health: Smoking, drinking alcohol, abusing drugs is harmful to your health.

AIRE DON TIMPEALLACHT - CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Show care for the environment of your school and your neighbourhood. Have responsibility for our own belongings and those of others. Make sure that any equipment taken to school is safe and is not a risk to others.

DICHEALLACHT AGUS FEABHAS COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE You are challenged to make the most of your opportunities while at Castleknock Community College. Attend regularly, be punctual and be prepared. Complete your homework and study with pride and commitment. Always make sure that you have the appropriate schoolbooks and equipment. Participate: get involved in school activities, sport, clubs and remember.

Dan do dhcheall i gcna! Always do your best!

Counter Bullying Policy

Context of Counter-Bullying Policy Our policy on Bullying has been developed in the context of our school, which aims to provide a safe and secure learning environment for all the students in our care. Our commitment to this aim means that we have developed programmes, structures and roles within the college to make this aim real for all our students. Our commitment to this aim means that we Take the issue of bullying very seriously Do all we can to be proactive about the issue Put support systems in place for the students and parents involved Include students and parents in decisions about how to resolve the issue. Review our policy regularly with students, parents and staff.

Aims of the policy To inform all students, parents and staff of the procedures To empower students to deal with the issue should it arise To engender a sense of collective responsibility regarding the issue of bullying To support the students and parents involved

Essential Elements of the Policy Focus on bullying as a human rights issue Regular highlighting of the issue with all students from first year Provision of a range of ways for students to access advice and support Regular information and In-Service support for staff

Features of the Policy Clear guidelines for staff about how to document and resolve the issue Clarity for students about how the school aims to resolve the issue Clear steps for students to follow seeking advice or reporting bullying Regular highlighting of the issue with students, parents and staff Regular review of our policy with students, parents and staff

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Student Leadership
These are The Prefect System and The Mentor Programme.

We endeavor to include our students in the day-to-day life of our college. Practical student participation is at the core of our Student Leadership Programmes. At present we have two projects for senior students to develop and refine their leadership potential.

The Prefect System

Each year a select group of our LC2 students are, after a rigorous selection process, chosen as the leaders and representatives of our student body. At a young age they are marked out as somebody with leadership qualities. They are trained in the area of leadership skills and effective communication. This is facilitated by professional trainers from outside the school. The Parents Association, who clearly appreciate the benefits of such training, financially support the costs of this programme.

Prefects are

l ing of the schoo with the runn ctical help s They: aff, giving pra nteen, corridor k alongside st cker areas, ca wor pervise lo em le helping to su me library syst for examp erate a lunchti events ers to op hool at public help teach present the sc upon to re r college are called students in ou s for younger odel ents are role m venings for Par . Information E attend School Project ed in the Green are involv
The Prefects also run the Student Council. They chair the Student Council meetings and meet with Senior Management to provide feedback. Sports Prefects have a key role in promoting sporting activities among our students and help to organize the very popular Sports Afternoon on Wednesdays for our First Year students. These experiences will enhance their curricula vitae, as the duties involve initiative, dependability, reliability and an opportunity to participate in the formal running of the school. Student leaders wear their Prefect badges with pride. Management and staff sincerely congratulate them on their commitment.

n the staff an a layer betwee

d the students

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The Senior Mentor Project

A Programme of Welcome and Support for the Incoming First Year Students
This is a joint initiative led by the Guidance and Counselling Department, in conjunction with the Year Heads of First and Fifth Years. It is aimed at making the transition from primary to secondary education more enjoyable and less threatening to our in-coming First Years. Senior Students may volunteer to act as mentors to First Years and are interviewed, where their suitability for the project is assessed. They attend a workshop where their role is clearly shaped. Throughout the year they work closely with the Tutors and Year Head of First Year. The Mentoring System provides opportunities to experience the following: Student leadership skills Personal and social skills Listening skills Social awareness Sense of responsibility Teamwork Communication skills

The experience of the College Mentors: This project is now well established in the college and continues with a new group of Mentors each year. Mentors go through a rigorous selection process, and thereafter receive comprehensive training in Leadership Skills and Group Dynamics Senior Mentors meet with the incoming First Year students during their orientation evening each June and facilitate a question and answer session Mentors play a key role most especially in September in helping the new First Years to settle into their new environment The First Years meet their Fifth Year Buddies in small groups several times throughout the year for lunchtime activities; and Mentors accompany their groups on the legendary First Year hikes! Our Mentors provide guided tours of our college during our annual Open Evening and organize a table quiz The Mentors play a pivotal role in our colleges annual Countering Bullying Workshops

This is an opportunity for our senior students to become involved in a project which has the potential to help others in a real and practical way.

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The Student Council

Context Recognition of the importance of student involvement in our decision making Recognition of the value of student input into our ongoing school development. Structure of the Student Council The council is run by Senior Prefects Their classmates elect their representatives A class captain and vice captain represent each class group Each Student Council member signs a Student Council Contract Our Colleges Student Council Constitution provides a framework for the functioning of the Student Council Class captains/vice captains meet with Senior Prefects on a regular basis Student feedback is brought to management meetings An annual one-day-workshop on issues relating to life in the College is hosted by the Prefects. A report of the workshop feeds into the School Development Plan

Functions of the Student Council To give students a forum to have their suggestions and opinions heard To ensure that all students are represented equally To bring students suggestions to school management meetings To ascertain students opinions on a range of issues To regularly review aspects of school organization for learning at the Student Council Seminars.

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Social & Personal Development

Pastoral Care Structures Class and Year Group structures Each class will have assigned to it a Class Tutor/Caomhnoir, whose role is to get to know the students in her/his care, and be responsible for the pastoral aspects of their well being while in our care. Each year group of students will have a Year Head/Ceannaire Bliana as their overall supervisor. The Year Head liases with the Tutors and monitors pupils overall progress as part of their responsibility for the Pastoral Care of the pupils. The Year Head also works closely with parents and is in regular communication with them regarding their childs progress. Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) A Pastoral Care Programme exists in the college and topics appropriate to the age and development of young people are dealt with through a programme in Social, Personal and Health Education Programme (SPHE). Civic, Social and Political Education (CSPE) While this is an examination subject for Junior Certificate this programme also contributes and complements the Pastoral Care Programme with its emphasis on Human Rights and Responsibilities in 1st year.

ear Topics Sample First Y CSPE: ponsibilities Rights and Res Bullying tion Conflict resolu consequences a actions and Dilemm sibility t taking respon The environmen

SPHE: ol My New Scho k and Study Homewor Safety Healthy Living ences Friends and influ

Religious Studies Instruction in Religious Studies will be available to Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland pupils. Arrangements will be made to provide for the needs of pupils of other religious beliefs. A fulltime chaplain works in the College whose role is to help and support students in their spiritual and emotional development.

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Guidance & Counselling Department

Personal Educational Career

We offer a full range of interventions and activities, which assist pupils to make choices about their lives. For second level pupils these choices are focused in a developmental way on three key areas:

At the end of the school year students will have experienced Guidance in educational and personal learning management. Vocational exploration and information. Individual and/or Group Counselling will have been available for all students on request and/ or on referral. Students will have access to information, which is appropriate for their personal, educational and vocational development. Parents will have met with the School Guidance Counsellors at Information evenings, at organised Guidance Meetings and on request. Students needs with regards to the Guidance Counselling Service - will be evaluated, and in partnership with staff and the Principal/ School Management, planning for the future will be ongoing.

Information for Students As a student you will make significant decisions while still at school. These choices are related to personal and social issues, educational issues and career issues. Guidance Counsellors are trained professionals with the expertise and knowledge to help you make choices in the three important areas outlined above. We do this through individual consultation, guidance classes and other activities.

We do not make decisions for you.

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During your years in Castleknock Community College we will undertake, with you, some or all of the following: Help you to explore your feelings about your present life situation. Explore with you choices open to you and explore the consequences of each choice. Help you to come up with solutions to any problems you may be experiencing. Offer confidential counselling and/or advice on issues of a personal nature. Give you information on various educational and training courses and/or employment opportunities. Organise classroom activities to develop job seeking skills Provide advice and help on study and examination techniques. Carry out Assessment and Aptitude Testing and Career Interest Inventories. Explain to you and your parents the CAO system and assist with application. Give you information on studying in the United Kingdom.

Referrals

Referrals cover two types of activity: Referrals by the Counsellor: The Guidance Counsellor recognises that an individual pupil needs assistance from other qualified helpers outside of school and organises the provision of such assistance following agreed procedures with the school, parents and local agencies. Guidance counsellors need to establish links with appropriate sources of help and have a system monitoring results. Referrals to the Counsellor: Teachers, School management and parents may refer pupils to the Guidance Counsellor. The voluntary participation in counselling of the referred pupil must be respected by all concerned.

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The Learning Support Department

Castleknock Community College will use the resources provided by the County Dublin VEC / Department of Education and Science to make reasonable provision and accommodation for students with disabilities or special educational needs. These students are free to participate in the life of the College in so far as is reasonably practicable. While recognising and fully supporting parents rights to have a College of their choice for their children, the Colleges ability to accept students with particular needs is dependent on the supply of resources, suitable to the needs of the individual student, being supplied by the Department of Education and Science/ County Dublin VEC. The Learning Support Department in conjunction with The Board of Management needs to be aware of any special needs as early as possible, so that these needs can be assessed and addressed if possible. In making provision for students with special needs the following information is required to be included with any application to the college: Has the student had access to any of the following? Special needs assistant or classroom teacher. Special classes. Help, for specific needs, from any resource teacher. Assistance with behavioural modification. Psychological Assessment. Report to be provided in strict confidence to the College. Any additional resources to help with their special needs. Help in areas including, visual impairment, hearing impairment, general learning disability or emotional disturbance. Any resource in relation to travel or mobility. The College will use all the above information to apply to the designated Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) for the appropriate resources for each child. The Board of Management, having gathered all relevant information and professional documentation, assesses how the requirements of the special needs students can be met. Final confirmation of a place, may in exceptional cases, be given when the Department of Education and Science/ County Dublin VEC / College confirm that the necessary resources are in place. Note: It may take some time for the Department of Education and Science/ County Dublin VEC to process such applications. Parents are strongly advised to inform the College as early as possible and discuss their particular situation well in advance of making application

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The Role of the Learning Support Department

Our role is to provide a proficient and responsive learning support service, which keeps up-to-date with changes in curriculum, syllabi, teaching and support methods. The Learning Support Department is committed to providing a comprehensive and effective learning support service for students. This will enable students who have special educational needs to access their curricula and achieve their full potential. Within an appropriate framework of support, we assist students to function as independent, autonomous learners. We are committed to the principles of equal opportunities for all.

How the Learning Support Department Operates We function on an in-class support model. This means that the students attend support sessions either on a one-to-one or in small group situations with their assigned tutor in the Departments suite of rooms. These rooms are fully equipped with Information Technology assistive equipment and software. Assessment on Entry All students complete Entrance Assessments, which screen for basic skills in literacy and numeracy competency. This information , coupled with the informal information obtained from the feeder primary colleges assists in identifying those students with special educational needs. Parent(s)/ Guardian(s) should forward any relevant information on their childs learning that may assist the Learning Support Department. In order to monitor the educational progress of our first years all are tested for spelling using a standardised test. Review on Progress From information gathered from the initial assessments, an individualised negotiated educational programme is put in place for each student. Regular reviews of pupils progress are maintained and parents are informed of these. Duration of Learning Support Provision The Learning Support Department is responsible for providing an intense intervention programme for those students with special educational needs in order to facilitate their full re-integration within the mainstream system. The duration of this provision will be determined by the students progress.

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Special Arrangement when sitting State Exams

Reasonable Accommodation in State Examinations (R.A.C.E)
The Department of Education & Science may grant special arrangements to students with learning difficulties and or physical disabilities. Each application is assessed on an individual basis. The Learning Support Department is responsible for the submission of these applications to the Department. An up-to-date psycho-educational assessment or a professional assessment is not necessary, though if one exists it can be forwarded with the application. The options of provision granted by the Department of Education & Science are: To have question papers read to the candidate. Candidates may be permitted to record their answers on tape recorder or word processor. Candidates qualify for exemption from spellings and grammatical components in language subjects. To have a scribe assigned to the candidate A special centre for aural exams for students with hearing impairments.

If a student avails of one of the afore-mentioned provisions in the course of a language subject, then this will be indicated on the examination certificate. An asterisk will appear next to the subject and a supplementary report will accompany this. Students who may qualify for R.A.C.E. are tested by the Learning Support Department during Third & Fifth Year. These results coupled with evidence from professional reports and progress reports from subject teachers are forwarded to the D.E.S./State Examinations Commission with the application Our positive commitment to facilitating an effective learning support system will provide an environment, which will promote, enhance and further develop the acquired skills of the pupils with learning difficulties.

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Student Enrichment Programme

Rationale C.C.C. is committed to providing an environment which facilitates all students in order that they maximise their potential. All children have a right to a broad, balanced and relevant education which provides continuity and progression and takes individual differences into account. In our College we aim to provide a curriculum that is appropriate to the needs and abilities of all our children. In 2006 the College was proud to launch the Student Enrichment Programme. Inclusion Exceptional students have equal access to all aspects of the curriculum and College life. We strive to maintain an ethos that promotes the talents of exceptional students, by recognising their achievements and encouraging them to work with like minded peers. Definition Exceptional students can be divided into the following categories: A gifted student is one who is in the top 10% in terms of academic ability. A talented student is in the top 10% in a non academic area such as sport, creativity, arts, drama, visual or performing ability. A skilled student is one who can demonstrate high performance in the area of mechanical aptitude. Any student who commands the respect of peers, parents, staff and the public is recognised as possessing a high aptitude in the areas of leadership and social awareness.

Identification We use a range of strategies to identify exceptional students. The identification process is ongoing and begins when the child joins our College and involves staff, students, parents and carers. Information considered will depend on the subject area and will include a talent portfolio. It will also include some or all of the following: Information from parents or guardians. Information from previous teachers or schools. Information from peers. Class work. Tests. Other assessment.

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Programmes for Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Ongoing assessment using a range of tests will be used, so that new curriculum targets may be set to meet the needs of our exceptional students. Extension activities, that are more demanding of their abilities, or enrichment activities that provide new and different ways of working will be provided. Opportunities for Exceptional students to work together, as well as enrichment clusters will be offered. There will be opportunities to display talents during the school year. After school clubs and activities such as debating, public speaking, creative writing and chess club will give exceptional students the chance to develop in a friendly and positive environment. If appropriate, approaches will be made to third level institutions and other external organisations for resources, advice and the achievement of mutually beneficial goals. If appropriate, adult mentors in specific areas will be approached to facilitate input on specialised topics.

Student Enrichment Programmes offered to date First year students are encouraged to participate in the Talent Search which is organised annually by the Centre for Talented Youth in DCU. Students of second year and Transition Year are offered the opportunity to take CTYI course in Mathematics and Creative Writing. Music students have participated in Voice Training sessions. Talented students in Sport attended a seminar where a member of the Irelands sporting community including Catherina McKiernan and Liam Moggin shared their sporting experiences with students who have excelled in Sport. In October 2009, the creative talents of our Junior Students were published in a magnificent publication entitled Tapestry.

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The Chaplaincy Team

The Chaplaincy Team

In a school community, which embraces a holistic vision of education, chaplaincy plays a pivotal role. The Education Act 1998 Section 9-(d) notes the obligation placed on schools to promote the moral, spiritual and personal development of students in consultation with parents having regard to the charismatic spirit of the school. While the chaplaincy is primarily concerned with moral and spiritual development of students it also plays an important role in integrating these with other dimensions of education, social, personal, academic and physical.

The Chaplaincy team is intimately involved in the life of Castleknock Community College. It is totally committed to supporting the ethos of the College through working together as a team. The Chaplaincy team operates on an interdenominational basis, and enjoys the services of a full-time Catholic chaplain, a part-time Church of Ireland chaplain, the Religious Studies Department, and bereavement volunteers who have traditionally been parents. Staff are also an indispensable part of the Chaplaincy team. Open Door No matter what stage in life we are at; all of us need some kind of support. The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provides an open door where students can come and receive support in a confidential, supportive and safe way. Many students have used this open door system as their first steps to dealing with a problem or seeking help. The Chaplain may refer a student to another member of staff, another support person or a counsellor, with the permission of the student. The school Chaplain works closely with the Principal, Deputy Principals, and the Guidance Teachers, as well as the class tutor and Year Heads. Bereavement Support The loss of someone close through death or separation is one of the most traumatic events in a persons life. When the loss occurs during teenage years, the effects can be even greater. The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provides bereavement support through The Rainbows Programme. Rainbows is a support group for young people dealing with loss or trauma. A Rainbows site has been set up in the college and is co-ordinated by the Chaplain. Several teachers and parents have now completed training to take this programme.

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Prayer & Church The Chaplains Meditation Room and office provide a haven of peace for a chat, for prayer, reflection, or simply a pause during a busy school day. Prayer and Thanksgiving are an important part of a persons life. The Chaplaincy team provide each student with opportunities to nourish their spirit and get in touch with their inner self. Class groups are offered prayer experiences, which help to develop their relationship with God. Classes take part in Eucharistic Celebrations, Prayer Services, and Meditation thus making prayer a part of the ordinary life of the school Retreats The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provide a full retreat programme for the students in the College. The retreats provide the students with an opportunity to examine their lives in relation to the issues they face each day and where God fits into their daily lives. Senior retreats are conducted away from the school and are tailored to the needs of the students. Ecumenism Since Castleknock Community College is an interdenominational College it is our policy to honour and support all faiths. The First Year multi-faith celebration is the spiritual highlight of the first term and this is always a very joyful, collaborative and unifying event. Other ecumenical occasions are the Christmas Carol Service and Prize Giving. Parents The Chaplain is always available to meet with parents and to listen to their concerns. The involvement of parents is also welcomed in the Chaplaincy team

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Parental Involvement

Since, 1995 a very dedicated and committed Parents Association has existed in the College. Parents have always played a very active part in the life of the College. In recent years they have been involved in fundraising for Computers, the College Mini-bus, a Security System including CCTV cameras and many other worthwhile projects. The Parents Association have also hosted many beneficial Information Evenings dealing with issues such as Self-esteem, Drug and Substance Abuse etc. Furthermore, they have been actively involved in designing policies in the College most notably the College Code of Behaviour. Other projects have included The Mock Interviews for Leaving Certificates Students and many extra-curricular programmes. The Parents Association meet once a month and all parents are welcome. Two parents also represent the Parent Body on The Board of Management. Without the hard work, support and commitment of all the Parents Association, our College would not be able to provide an educational experience of such high quality to our students.

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Embracing Diversity
The Beata Project
In-house Auditing! How Inclusive is CCC?

Beata Baranauskaite was born in Lithuania and is the coordinator of the Beata Project

CCC student Beata Baranauskaite is working on an internal auditing system which ensures that every student is represented on the walls of the College. She used the Equal Status Act as her yardstick thus ensuring that no matter what nationality, religion, colour, sexual orientation, learning ability or family background our students come from, they will feel at home in CCC. The project has been validated by Amnesty International.

D15 SCMP

The D15 SCMP (Dublin 15 Schools Cultural Mediation Project) was initiated by CCC and Castaheaney Educate Together in March 2008. Through the generosity of the Department of Integration, the project has translated into fifteen languages information on the CAO (Central Applications Office) process, HEAR (Higher Education Access Route), DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) and a memo from the Department of Education and Science on the financial supports available to students to assist them in progressing to studies in further or higher education. In addition, a brief resum on Irish Education is also available in several languages. See www.castleknockcc.ie

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Grandparents Day in School

CCC celebrated the 10th anniversary of GDS in May 2009. Below is an excerpt from the Irish Times on Saturday May 2, 2009. College hosts annual Grandparents Day School around the corner: returning to class for the day by Fiona Gartland Normally dominated by over 1,000 hormonally charged teenagers, Castleknock Community College was {host to Grandparents of the First Years yesterday}. They sat in on English, Maths, Spanish, History and Irish, helping their grandchildren and chipping in the odd bit of information for the teachers benefit. In maths class, all sorts of information was being imparted, about the price of a loaf of bread in old money, how milk was delivered in a churn instead of in litres and how shopping was acquired with ration coupons instead of credit cards. The students were agog at the idea that tea might come in ounces and not in bags. In geography, Martin Early said the school was a far cry from his own in Clifden, Connemara. It was very, very strict; they taught with the cane, he said. Sam Macintosh seemed delighted to have his 80-year-old grandmother to help him with maps. And Eva Macintosh, who went to strict Loreto nuns in Leeson Lane, Dublin, in her day, thought the atmosphere in the school was great. GDS coordinator Mary Ryan said she was hopeful the scheme would catch on in primary and secondary schools around the country Fiona Gartland (with gratitude to Irish Times) See www.grandparentsdayinschool.ie for intergenerational class plans devised by CCC teachers and for memories of CCC Grandparents.

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Human Rights Friendly Schools Project

CCC was invited by Amnesty International to be one of two Irish schools to participate in the global project HRFS. There are ten principles in the HRs framework and work is ongoing to embed HRs in four key areas in the College: school governance, community relations, curriculum and extra-curricular domain and school environment. A team of teachers has been trained in this area

HRFS Poster Competition 2010

The winners were:

A poster competition based on the Articles in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was organised by Ms Michelle Brady in 2010.

1st Iptisam Saeid (The Right to a Home) 2nd Jack Jennings (The Right to Free Speech)

3rd Martyna Borkowska (Who are You?) Highly commended: Rachel Boyle (The Right to Water) 27 Jack Robinson (The Right to Nationality)

Videoconference

A videoconference organised by Amnesty International Ireland for teachers interested in including Human Rights education in their schools took place between CCC and an Israel school in May 2010. Students David Ryan and Beata Baranauskaite represented the student body at the conference.

International Board Games Club

The International Board Games Club was established in 2006. Tutors and students teach each other games from their heritage country which include Chess, Backgammon and Chinese Chequers.

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Learning Centres

CCC is committed to honouring all the languages and cultures represented in the College. Albanian teachers and parents ran The Albanian Learning Centre from 2008 to 2009 where Albanian students learnt their Mother Tongue and their heritage culture.

Log On, Learn

Computer Training for Older People

Transition Year students are offering free, one to one computer training for those aged 65 and over. Learn how to book flights, surf the Internet or send an e-mail to a friend! These user-friendly classes will take place, on consecutive week day mornings. As places are limited, dont delay.

Pathways to Parental Leadership

Migrant parents have been involved directly in the College through the Religious Education classes when they provide support to the Islamic students.

CCC is the only Irish post-primary school to be represented on the National Advisory Committee of the Immigrant Council of Ireland which has developed a toolkit to facilitate the involvement of migrant parents in their childrens schooling. The toolkit for post-primary schools was launched in CCC in September 2010.

They have also been involved in the Intercultural Festival and in the Learning Centres initiative.

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School Pack on Asylum and Migration

CCC Students who were invited to the launch of a School Pack on Asylum and Migration by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organisation for Migrants on Thursday March 26, 2009

Voice Our Concern

TY students (2007 08) had the privilege of working with song-writer Mr Christy Moore when he facilitated them to write an anti-racist song as part of Amnesty Internationals project Voice Our Concern.

The same year, the TY students also wrote a consciousness-raising anti-racist play with help from a Human Rights barrister and a dramaturge; our gratitude for this to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The song and play can be seen on our website.

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Educational Programmes

Educational Programmes
The Junior Cycle Programme
Junior Cycle Core Subjects: Gaeilge* English* History* Science* French Mathematics* Geography* Modern Languages* German Spanish CSPE (Civic, Social and Political Education)* Junior Cycle Option Subjects (choice of two) Modern Language French German Spanish Art Business Studies Technical Graphics Technology Materials Technology (Wood) Materials Technology (Metal) Music Home Economics

SPHE (Social, Personal and Health Education) Religious Studies* Physical Education

(a) Subjects marked above with an * are examination subjects. (b)Two additional subjects to be chosen from the list on the right hand side.

Levels

All subjects are available at the appropriate level; Higher and Ordinary level. Foundation Level is available to students in Gaeilge and Maths and English. CSPE is offered at a common level only. The maximum class size will not exceed 30 pupils. In classes with a practical module, the maximum number will not exceed 24 pupils. However the maximum number of students for Home Economics is 20. Castleknock Community College follows the curricular programmes set down by the Department of education and Science which may be amended from time to time in accordance with the Education Act 1998 (Sections 9 & 30)

Class Size

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Class Structures at Castleknock Community College

Strict streaming of classes has been found to create very negative attitudes and to lower self-esteem. In order to avoid the potentially serious damage done to students under this system and to instead promote and encourage student self-confidence, classes are placed in mixed ability groups in first year. The opportunity for students to prepare for examination subjects at various levels is achieved by setting. This involves timetabling two or more classes for a particular subject at the same time. Thus it is possible for a student to undertake the Junior Certificate course in different subjects at different levels. For example, a student might wish to take Junior Certificate English at Higher or Ordinary level. The same student might choose to take maths at Ordinary level. This system allows for flexibility so that students needs are met, and yet it avoids the stigmatisation, which can go hand in hand with a system of strict streaming. The above system of setting will operate from the end of first year and particularly with third year and senior cycle.

Senior Cycle Programmes

Transition Year Programme
To promote the personal, social, educational and vocational development of the students, and to prepare them for their role as autonomous, participative and responsible members of society The Transition Year Programme is available at present on a non-compulsory basis. This is a one-year programme, which comes immediately after completion of the Junior Certificate.

This programme includes modules in:

Computer Studies Log On Learn Preparation for the World of Work Peer Mediation Mini Company European Studies

Steer Clear Driving Programme Work Experience Gaisce Award Scheme Further study of the subjects which the student will take at Leaving Certificate level

The Benefits of the Transition Year Programme

Students Discover more about their personal strengths. Develop maturity and self-confidence Improve self-esteem Build interpersonal and team skills Make wiser subject choices for Leaving Certificate and Further Education Extend the learning experience beyond the classroom Develop entrepreneurial skills Explore the working world. Extend their repertoire of learning styles

A wide range of teaching styles and assessment modes are used within the Transition Year Programme Individual syllabi are designed according to the needs and interests of our students The number of places available for this programme is revised annually Prospective students are interviewed in the Spring of Third Year An additional charge is requested to facilitate the wide range of activities in which students are involved during this year Research has proven that students who complete the Transition Year Programme on average achieve higher points in the Leaving Certificate
There is growing evidence that students who have taken the Transition Year Programme are most-self-reliant learners when they enter third level education than their peers. Commission on the Points System, Final Report & Recommendations, 1999, p46.

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Leaving Certificate (Traditional)

The Leaving Certificate (Traditional) allows students to sit seven subjects for examination. Three Core Subjects: Gaeilge, Maths & English One Modern Language Option Subjects (Students choose Three of the following) Business Accounting Economics Art Applied Maths Religion Music Home Economics Technical Drawing Architectural Technology Engineering Technology

History Geography Biology Chemistry Physics

All subjects are taken at either Higher or Ordinary Level. In Third Year the following process allows students and parents to make informed choices about Senior Cycle: Information Evening in September-October on Study skills and Course Choices available at Senior Cycle. DATs (Aptitude Testing) in December Early Spring Term. Information Evening on Transition Year and other Senior Cycle Options and Subjects. Spring Term Interviews for Transition Year Programme Spring Term Career Interest Inventory. Late Spring Term Students are informed of their Options/Programme in - May A comprehensive booklet entitled Choosing the Right Option at Senior Cycle is made available to all Third Year students and parents in February of Third year. Subject to sufficient demand and resources, Management reserves the right to determine on an annual basis the range and level of subjects.

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Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme LCVP

This programme was introduced to the Senior Cycle Curriculum in 1989, in response to an identified need for an enhancement of curriculum provision. Following a review of the Senior Cycle curriculum the LCVP was modified and expanded in 1994. This revised Programme enables the participation of a large number of students with a wide range of aptitudes and abilities than the original LCVP permitted. It combines the academic strengths of the established Leaving Certificate with a new focus on self-directed learning, enterprise, work and the community

LCVP Rationale
The LCVP subscribes to an educational approach which emphasizes active learning, cross-curricular and interdisciplinary activities, and the acquisition of core skills with the ultimate aim of developing autonomous, adaptable and lifelong learners. The Programme aims to develop key vocational skills, which enable students: To be innovative and enterprising To communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively To take greater responsibility for their own learning To learn from their experiences. To work as members of a team or group To solve problems and make decisions To adapt and cope with changing circumstances

LCVP Structure & Content

Each student must take the core elements of the LCVP: Two Leaving Certificate subjects from one of the two sets of Vocational Subjects Groupings: (e.g. Business Studies & Home Economics) A course in a modern European Language Irish at Leaving Certificate Students must take at least five Leaving Certificate subjects. Two LCVP Link Modules

The Two Mandatory Link Modules are: Preparation for the World of Work Enterprise Education

The purpose of the two links modules is to foster in young people a spirit of enterprise, adaptability and initiative, and to develop communication, interpersonal, vocational and technological skills and an experience of the world of work.

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Activities & Skills

Students are afforded the following experiences: Involvement in Enterprise activities Working in teams on projects Engagement in interdisciplinary projects, which facilitate learning across the curriculum Organising visits of people from the world of business, industry and community services to the school, and study visits to places of work. Participation in Work Placement, Work Shadowing or Work Simulation. Access to, and use of, information technology and audio-visual resources

Assessment & Certification

The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme Examination is assessed through two modes a common level written examination worth 40% and a portfolio of coursework worth 60% of the total marks. Furthermore, LCVP is recognized by all Third Level Universities and Institutions of Technology in the following way: Distinction 70 Points, Merit 50 Points and Pass 30 Points.

Leaving Certificate Applied Programme - LCAP

Leaving Certificate Applied ( LCA ) It is a two year Leaving Certificate Programme It is available to students who wish to follow a practical or vocational orientated programme It is one of the 3 Leaving Certificate options offered by the Department of Education and Science

What does Applied mean? The word Applied is used because the programme is designed to allow the students to apply the learning and experience they gain over the two years of the programme This learning and experience is applied to practical educational tasks at school, in the workplace and in the wider community What is different about the Leaving Certificate Applied? It is a self contained programme made up of a number of courses It is a practical programme that makes use of active and student centred learning methodologies It includes 7 Student Tasks It uses a unique system of assessment. The students work is assessed over the 2 years of the programme and they gain credits as they go along Practicals, interviews and terminal written papers are among the different forms of assessment used

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Leaving Certificate Applied Curriculum

A) B) C) D) Vocational Preparation Vocational Preparation and Guidance English and Communications Vocational Education Office Administration and Customer Care ( O.A.C.C. ) ( Specialism 1) Information and Communication Technology ( I.C.T. ) ( Specialism 2) Mathematical Applications Introduction to I.C.T. ( 1 year only ) General Education Social Education Gaeilge ( Year 1 only ) Arts Education ( Music --- Year 1 and Drama ---Year 2 ) Leisure and Recreation Graphics and Construction Studies ( Elective module ) Personal Reflection Task State Exam Subjects English and Communications O.A.C.C. I.C.T. Mathematical Applications Social Education Gaeilge ( Year 1 ) Modern European Language ( Year 2 )

Delivery of the Curriculum The delivery of the curriculum is divided into 4 Sessions Session 1 September - January LCA Year 1 Session 2 February - June LCA Year 1 Session 3 Session 4 September - January February - June LCA Year 2 LCA Year 2

Work Experience There are 4 Modules of Work Experience over the course of the 2 year programme (2 per year) There are 8 credits available for Work Experience It forms part of the final exam in English and Communications It forms part of the Students Personal Reflection Task How are students awarded credits? As the students complete their Leaving Certificate Applied course work, they collect credits. It is possible to collect 200 credits. 62 credits are awarded for the completion of the required Key Assignments 70 credits are awarded for the 7 Student Tasks 68 credits are awarded for the State examinations 36

The awarding of Leaving Certificate Applied The leaving Certificate Applied is awarded at 3 levels: Pass Merit Distinction 120 - 139 credits (60% - 69%) 140 - 169 credits (70% - 84%) 170 - 200 credits (85% - 100% )

Students who accumulate fewer than 120 credits will receive a Record of Experience Further Education Opportunities The Leaving Certificate Applied is an exciting new way of preparing for the career opportunities of the new millennium. Because it is based on active learning it helps develop a broad range of transferable skills. These skills can be further developed in a post leaving certificate course (PLC) which can lead directly to employment or to higher education. The links scheme, agreed between the NCVA and the NCEA provides a progression route to third level education from PLC courses. Employment Opportunities The Leaving Certificate Applied is recognised by a wide range of employers who include: Local Authorities Banks Health Boards Civil Service Aer Lingus Garda Sochana Intel Hewlett Packard Apprenticeships

The Leaving Certificate Applied is an excellent choice for those interested in training for a trade. (Fs, E.S.B. , Greencore, Bus Eireann etc.)

Recognising Academic Achievements

Over the last fifteen years the College has introduced a number of initiatives that recognise successes achieved by student. Merit awards are celebrated at Christmas and summer. This achievement recognises students who live out to the highest standard the values of courtesy, respect and responsibility. Academic Awards are also given for students who have achieved excellence in their house exams and who have made notable progress in these exams All awards are given in the spirit of the College Philosophy and Motto, Mol an ige agus Tiocfaidh Si. In 2003 the College introduced a new awards scheme, which recognises the achievement of our students in the state exams. Students are now rewarded for academic excellence in the Junior & Leaving Certificate and the LCA exams. Students and Parents are invited to a specially convened awards evening each spring and the Gold Medal for Academic Excellence is presented. 37

Extra- Curricular Activities

Physical education is a timetabled subject on the curriculum and all students are expected to participate. We have a Sports Hall, which provides a great facility for the promotion and development of sports and leisure activities. Other sports, games, inter-school competitions, and extracurricular activities are organised in part within the Physical Education Programme, as co-ordinated by the P.E. Department, but also and in the main on a voluntary basis, with the cooperation of teachers.

At Castleknock Community College all our students are encouraged to involve themselves in at least one extra-curricular activity. It is exciting to think that since 1995 a wide range of clubs and activities have been established to cater for all students in the College. Activities are organised to cater for boys and girls. The availability of such a wide variety of activities is a credit to the generosity of our staff. We hope that there is something for every student. Activities organised to date include: Gaelic Football Camogie Hurling Soccer Table Tennis Basketball Cricket Golf Rugby Hill-Walking Hockey Athletics Swimming International Board Games Chess Debating Public Speaking Educational Trips The Say Group (Amnesty) The Traditional Music Group The Senior Chamber Choir Folk Group Choir Chess & Backgammon Club Enterprise Group Self Defence Student Exchanges Drama Group Computer Club Homework Club

The support and involvement of parents will always be encouraged and welcomed.

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History of Castleknock Community College

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College opened on Wednesday 30th August 1995 in Temporary accommodation at Hartstown Community School. Junior Debating team wins the Inter schools Dublin West Debating Competition. College opens at Carpenterstown Road, Dublin 15. Niamh Breathanach, Minister for Education visits the College - December 96 First Science Trip to London - May 1997. College canoeing team enters Liffey Descent - May 1997 Parents Association hosted The Fashion Show and raised 15,000.00 School Choir reaches the finals of Slogadh March 1998 Students visit Torai Island - May 1998 First students sit the Junior Certificate June 1998. Gold Medal success in Leinster Championships for Kate and Miranda Ruddock May 1998 Marina Loughney wins a Silver Medal in the All Ireland Swimming Gala in the 200m Individual Medley. Marina Loughney and Jennifer Victory selected to represent Ireland and the College in The FISEC games in Spain. July 1998 Transition Year and Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) launched in September 1998. Adult Education programme launched in September College Relay Swimming Team wins All Ireland Finals in Belfast October 1998 Starsearch Talent Contest hosted in January 1999. Sinead McCarthy wins the inaugural event. College Choir performs in the National Concert Hall in the Co Dublin VEC Festival of Music. February 1999 First French Exchange Programme with Parisian School. College wins Three All-Ireland Slogadh titles - March 1999 Rainbows programme launched in the College Leaving Certificate Students travel to Italy College Public Speaking team reach the National Semi Finals of the Mental Health Public Speaking Project - May 1999 Grandparents Day hosted by the College in - May 1999 U14 boys win All-Ireland Basketball Final in Killarney - April 2000. Transition Years travel to Barcelona March 2000 European School Tour to Bavaria Germany April 2000 Girls U14 Basketball win All Ireland Final May 2000 First Students sit Leaving Certificate June 2000 Mary Robinson UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Launches the Refugee Solidarity Badge designed by Graham and John Brocklebank December 2000 Aoife Ni Mhaoileoin achieves second place in her category at the Young Scientist Exhibition. - January 2001 Mental Health Public Speaking Team reaches the All-Ireland Final in Trinity College. - May 2001 Leaving Certificate Applied Programme (LCAP) launched - September 2001 College Basketball teams win three Leinster titles April 2002 The Mentor Programme launched - September 2002 College Swimming Relay Team wins All Ireland Finals. May 2002

September 2003 First Prefects appointed September 2003 U14 Leinster Gaelic Football Champions 2003 & 04 David Hopkins (Senior Student) elected chairperson of Dil na nOg in Dublin. A Fingal County Council initiative to promote political awareness. National Finalists in the Mental Health Public Speaking Project 2004. Aoife Ni Mhaoileoin represents Ireland in the Physics Olympiad in Amsterdam May 2004 winning silver. Under 14s Boys Gaelic Football team secure top flight football by winning the Division B Leinster Final. The Under 16 Hurlers win the Colleges first Hurling Title by defeating Scoil Cathriona in the 2005 Dublin Championship. Michael Daly signs professionally for Manchester City in June 2005. The Language Centre was established in September 2005 to cater for the linguistic needs of international students and the cultural challenges presented by our changing society. The U16 Girls Soccer team begins an amazing run that takes them to their First Leinster title when they beat Alexandra College 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out in December 2006. The U18 Boys Gaelic Football team competes in the Division A Leinster Final against St Peters Dunboyne in February 2006. David OBrien is selected to play for the Republic of Ireland in the U16 European Championships in April 2006. Past pupils Paddy Andrews and Ross McConnell take their place in on the Dublin Senior Gaelic Team. The International Board Games Club is established in December 2006 Paddy Andrews is selected to represented Ireland against Australia in the Compromise Rules Tournament in April 2006 Stephen Hopkins and David McGowan win the Leinster Senior Debating Title for the first time. Niamh N Mhaoileoin and Sinead Ni Riada win the Aoife Begley Debating Trophy. Under the auspices to the Language Centre, Sumaia Edris, Muzna Hussain, Mashaal Jaffar, Hyeda Kamal, Iman Quaiser and Verdah Tanveer came first in Ireland in the Largas EDL Landscape Competition. Sinead N Riada was awarded first place in Ireland for her achievement in the 2006 Leaving Certificate Technical Drawing Examination. Jack Kiernan and Peter Murphy win the AIB Junior Schools Debating Competition in April 2007 Philip OCallaghan is one of twenty finalists to be nominated for the Pramerica Spirit of Community Award. Philip was honoured for his work with the Laura Lynn Foundation in Dublin 15 The First Intercultural Festival was hosted by the Language Centre in March 2007. The College showcased the cultures of Nigeria, Bosnia Herzegovina, India and Pakistan. U16 Girls Soccer Team reach the Leinster Finals in March 2007 The College wins the National Robocup Award for designing a computer programme robot. The College launches the Reader Leader Programme allowing senior students to mentor junior students in reading. August 2007, Martina Feyzrakhmanova achieved top marks in the country in her Leaving Certificate with an amazing 8A1s. February 2008 Colm Mooney (Leaving Certificate Student) wins the All Ireland Pramerica Spirit of Community Award. Colm was honoured for his efforts in raising an awareness of Teen Cancer. Two first year students, Aodhn Peelo and Daire Boyle represent the College in the International Competition for Young Debaters at Oxford University. Eileen ORourke our first Deputy Principal is appointed as Principal of Setanta Community College and is succeeded by Carmel ONeill as Deputy Principal.

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In September 2008, the Minister for Older People, Marie Hoctor T.D. launched the Log on Learn Programme in Castleknock Community College. This simple and user friendly programme was devised to engage older people in computer training. The programme is designed to buddy a transition year student with an older person from their community, giving both participants the opportunity to engage in cross-generation learning experiences The Primary School Gaelic League was launched in association with the local primary schools and TY students. Students from local primary schools compete in the league under the watchful eye of our TY students. Big Brother Big Sister mentoring programme was launched by Froige in the College in October 2008. March 2009, Castleknock Community College launches Green Week and invites The President of An Taisce, Eanna N Lamhna, to visit the College to speak with Junior Certificate students. Mr. Riechental, a survivor of the Bergen Belsen Concentration Camp visit the College in April 2009. The College wins the Award for Best Film Script at the 2009 CIAK Junior Film Festival. Castleknock Community College celebrates the tenth anniversary of Grandparents Day. The U14 Gaelic Team wins the Tom Quinlan Trophy beating St Davids Artane in the Final in May 2009. Ciara Gorman wins the Sean Dunne Short Story Competition and also took the National Title. June 2009, Tom OBrien retires as Principal of Castleknock Community College after fourteen years service. Mr. John Hopkins is appointed Deputy Principal of the College in September 2009. December 2009 The U14 Gaelic Team wins the Division A Dublin Championship defeating St Benildus College in the final. The College celebrates Fifteen Years in the Community with a Concert in the Draiocht Theatre. Ciara Gorman & Aodhan Peelo win the Leinster Junior Debating Title in UCD History was made on Wednesday April 21st when CCC played its first ever Cricket fixture. The U-14 Cricket team played Colaiste Phadraig, Kilcock at North Kildare Cricket Grounds, captained by Thomas Anders CCC won by 7 Wickets. In April 2010 Deirdre McGuane and Aodhan Peelo win the National Senior Debating title with an historic win in the Astra Hall in UCD.

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Adult Education Night Classes

Our Adult Education-Night Classes programme was first launched in 1999. Since then, the number of participants enrolled in our night classes has grown dramatically, as has the number of courses on offer. The current Director of Adult Education is Paul Mc Corry. There are two terms each academic year. The Autumn Term generally commences towards the end of September, with the Spring Term getting under way towards the end of January. Each term is normally of ten-week duration. An extremely comprehensive and diverse range of classes are available, with over 70 exciting courses on offer each term! Courses vary from professional qualifications in our E.C.D.L. computer classes and first aid courses, right through to classes on gardening, flower arranging, cookery, psychology, painting, reflexology, Spanish, Italian, pilates, ta chi, yoga and ballroom dancing, to name but a few! Our brochures are widely available in the local area. With over 10,000 delivered door to door in the weeks leading up to the commencement of each term. Copies of our brochure are also freely available in the school office and can be downloaded from the Adult Education Section of the Colleges website at www.castleknockcc.ie. Enrolment in our Night Classes is both flexible and easy! You can enrol in person on one of our Enrolment Nights in the college, which are held the week prior to the start of each term. Alternatively, you can enrol by post by availing of our simple and convenient Postal Enrolment facility, details of which can be found on the back of our brochure. On-line enrolment, paying by laser/credit card is also available via the Night Classes section of the County Dublin V.E.C. website at www.codubvec.ie. If there is any group of ten or more people in the community interested in any particular course currently not on offer in our programme, please contact the Director of Adult Education and we will do our best to facilitate you. Should anyone be interested in teaching a course currently on offer in our programme, or would like to teach a course not presently available, please contact the Director of Adult Education. If you have any queries concerning Adult Education, please feel free to contact us at any time. You can contact the college on 822 1626 or you can contact the Director of Adult Education directly on 812 9340 or by e-mail at nightclasses@castleknockcc.ie

Further information on the Department can also be found via the Adult Education section of the colleges website at www.castleknockcc.ie

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Notes

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The Following Policies are available on request Admissions Policy Code of Behaviour Attendance & Punctuality Policy Suspension and Expulsion Policy Substance Abuse Policy Counter-bullying Policy

Text and content copyright of Castleknock Community College

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Castleknock Community College, Carpenterstown Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15. Te l : ( 0 1 ) 8 2 2 1 6 2 6 / 4 / 8 Fax: (01) 822 1630 Email: admin@castleknockcc.ie We b : w w w. c a s t l e k n o c k c c . i e