Our school received a grant in 2021 to implement initiatives aimed at addressing the digital divide and support our learners at risk of educational disadvantage as a consequence, as part of the Irish National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) a project under the Recovery and Resilience Facility funded by the European Union through NextGenerationEU. This funding was used in our school in the following ways:

1. Devices for Pupils

• iPads and Chromebooks for pupils to use in class and on loan for home use.

🧑‍🏫 2. Devices for Teachers

• Laptops and chromebooks for teachers to prepare digital lessons and support blended/remote learning.

🧰 3. Accessories and Supports

• Headphones for pupils using tablets & laptops.
• Protective cases for devices to ensure safe handling during loan.

4. Educational Software & Apps

• Literacy and numeracy apps (e.g. Spellings for Me, Raz Reading, Read Theory, Word Wall).
• Coding tools like Scratch
• Mindfulness and well-being

🎥 5. Teaching Tools

• Interactive whiteboard panels for classroom use.
• Visualisers to share pupil work and for the teacher to model writing and drawing.

🌐 6. Online Learning Platforms

• Subscriptions to Google Workspace for Education and Vimeo
• Licensing for age-appropriate digital learning tools – Raz Reading, Spellings for Me & Read Theory

🧪 7. STEAM Kits & Equipment

• Bee-Bots

🏠 8. Home–School Connectivity

• Cyber Safety sessions for pupils, parents & Guardians

🛠️ 9. Technical Support Services

• Setup/configuration fees for new digital devices.
• Software installation and device management systems.
• Training for staff on using new digital tools in the classroom.

🌍 10. Support for Inclusion

• Custom apps for pupils with SEN.