🏆 Narrowing the Digital Divide 💻
Since receiving a grant in 2021 under the Irish National Recovery and Resilience Plan, The Swan N.S. has made significant strides in addressing the digital divide and enhancing student learning through ICT. With funding used to purchase iPads, students have developed digital skills across subjects such as literacy, numeracy, science, and history. In 2023, additional funding from the Department of Education supported the introduction of Lego Spike robotics, fostering coding, problem-solving, and computational thinking. This led to the school’s successful participation in the First Lego League, where students showcased their teamwork and STEM skills around the theme "Submerged." At a special event attended by STEM engagement officer Seanie Morris, the school received First Lego League medals and was gifted Vex IQ Robotics kits to further expand their STEM learning opportunities in the upcoming school year.
Please find a statement below detailing our Digital journey even further:
👇
🎖️ First Lego League 🧱
The children of The Swan N.S. thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the First Lego League this year, embracing the challenge with enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork. Throughout the project, they engaged deeply in problem-solving, coding, and innovative thinking, all while having great fun building and testing their Lego creations. Their dedication and curiosity stood out, culminating in the proud achievement of receiving the Curious Minds award. This recognition highlighted not only their technical skills but also their ability to collaborate, explore ideas, and approach challenges with a positive and inquisitive mindset. It was a truly rewarding experience that sparked a lasting interest in STEM for many of the students.
🚢✈️🌀
🫧School Tour 🔎
The school tour to the Explorium in Dublin was a fantastic experience for The Swan N.S. this year, made even more special by joining together with our friends from Wolfhill N.S. The day was filled with excitement, discovery, and hands-on learning as students explored the many interactive science and sports exhibits. From climbing walls to mind-bending illusions and high-tech experiments, every child found something to spark their curiosity and imagination. The collaboration between the two schools created a wonderful sense of community, with students mixing and making new friends throughout the day. The tour was exceptionally well-organized, and the enthusiasm from both pupils and staff made it a highlight of the school year.
🧲💡⚗️🧬
🥅 Sports' Day ⚽
The Swan N.S. Sport's Day was a tremendous success this year, filled with energy, teamwork, and a wonderful community spirit. Blessed with sunny weather, students of all ages enthusiastically participated in a wide range of activities—from classic races and novelty events to team challenges that kept everyone engaged. The atmosphere was lively, with parents and staff cheering on the side-lines, creating a supportive and fun environment for all involved. The day ran smoothly thanks to excellent organization, and the smiles on students' faces reflected just how much they enjoyed the experience. It was a memorable day that truly highlighted the school’s commitment to physical activity, inclusion, and celebration.
🏆🎖️🎯