The New Primary Curriculum Framework

At St. Fergus’ National School, we are embracing the New Primary Curriculum Framework, launched in 2023 by the Department of Education. This curriculum marks an exciting step forward in Irish primary education, replacing the 1999 curriculum with a more modern, flexible, and child-centred approach to learning.

The new curriculum continues to value strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, but places a greater emphasis on well-being, creativity, digital learning, and the development of key life skills. It also introduces broader areas of learning rather than individual subjects in the early years, supporting a more integrated and engaging learning experience for children.

Unlike previous curricula, this framework gives schools more flexibility to tailor learning to the needs of their pupils and local communities. It also encourages active, hands-on learning, critical thinking, and collaboration, helping children to thrive in today’s changing world.

To find out more about the New Primary Curriculum Framework, visit the official curriculum website:
🔗 https://www.curriculumonline.ie

Parents can also learn more about these changes and what they mean for your child by visiting the following resources:

National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) – Primary Curriculum    https://ncca.ie/en/primary/

Information for Parents – NCCA – https://ncca.ie/en/primary/resources-for-parents/

We look forward to working together with parents as we continue to implement this exciting new chapter in primary education.

Enriching Experiences Beyond the Classroom

At St. Fergus’ National School, we are committed to providing a broad and balanced education that goes beyond the core curriculum. We strive to educate the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—and our extracurricular offerings play a key role in that mission.We offer a variety of exciting extracurricular programmes that give pupils opportunities to explore their talents, develop new skills, and enjoy learning in creative and active ways.

Why Extracurricular Activities Matter
These programmes help pupils to:

  • Develop new talents and interests
  • Build confidence and leadership skills
  • Form friendships and work as part of a team
  • Stay active and healthy
  • Express creativity and explore their identity
  • Strengthen their voice in school life

🎨 Visual Art – with Tommy Moloney

In the final term, well-known art teacher Tommy Moloney visits the school to lead engaging, creative art lessons. This is always a pupil favourite and is partially funded by our Parents’ Council.

⚽ Soccer Coaching – Klasskickz

Pupils enjoy soccer coaching sessions from the professional team at Klasskickz, who bring energy and fun to skill development and team play during school hours.

🏐 Gaelic Football – Bord na nÓg Coaching

Each year, pupils take part in a football skills programme, funded by the school and Bord na nÓg, supporting physical development and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

🏊 Swimming Lessons 

We aim to return to swimming lessons in local pools in the new School Year and look forward to fully implementing this life saving skill, which is part of the Physical Education Curriculum.

Developing Voice, Values and Wellbeing

🗳️ Student Council

Our Student Council gives pupils a voice in school life. Representatives are elected from each class and meet regularly to discuss ideas, raise concerns, and lead initiatives such as fundraising and school events. This helps build leadership, responsibility, and democratic values.

♻️ Green Schools

As a Green School, we are committed to environmental awareness and sustainability. Pupils help promote recycling, energy saving, and eco-friendly actions, and our Green Flag flies proudly outside the school.

💚 Active Schools

We participate in the Active Schools Programme, encouraging daily physical activity through fun events, challenges, and our annual Active Schools Week. Our goal is to make movement a natural part of the school day.

🌼 Well-being Committee

The Well-being Committee leads activities focused on mental health, friendship, mindfulness, and kindness. The committee promotes a positive school climate where all children feel valued, supported, and safe.

📚 Senior Book Club

Our Senior Book Club offers older pupils the chance to explore new books, share recommendations, and discuss themes in a relaxed and social setting, encouraging a lifelong love of reading.

🏛️ Heritage in Schools Scheme
As part of our commitment to developing a strong sense of identity, culture, and connection to place, St. Fergus’ NS proudly participates in the Heritage in Schools Scheme, supported by the Heritage Council. This programme brings professional heritage specialists into our classrooms to share their knowledge on topics such as local history, archaeology, wildlife, biodiversity, traditional crafts, and folklore.

These visits are hands-on, interactive, and deeply engaging for pupils. They help children to:

  • Connect with their local environment and traditions
  • Understand the rich cultural and historical background of Glin and the Shannon Estuary
  • Value the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship

By linking the past to the present, the Heritage in Schools Scheme supports our broader focus on wellbeing, citizenship, and pride of place, nurturing a sense of belonging and responsibility in every child.