DEIS

DEIS - Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools

Merlin College was awarded DEIS status in 2022. As part of DEIS planning, we are looking at eight themes in relation to school improvement. The aim of the DEIS plan is to prioritise the following eight themes:

1. Literacy

2. Numeracy

3. Attendance

4. Retention

5. Supporting Educational Transition

6. Attainment

7. Partnership with Parents

8. Partnership with Others

DEIS Teaching & Learning A2 Poster.jpg

This is an inclusive, reflective and collaborative whole school process. Working on our DEIS plan encourages us to focus on and evaluate what is working well in our school as well as see what areas we can improve upon to enhance Learning and Teaching. The DEIS team works together throughout the year on the six-step process of SSE to collect and analyse data in relation to the eight DEIS themes. We then evaluate what is working well and see what needs to be improved in each area.

School Self Evaluation is a continuous process at Merlin College and embedded into our practices. The diagram below illustrates the 6 step process that schools implement in the SSE journey.

Community School Improvement Plan

Parents and guardians play an important role in supporting student learning and wellbeing. Below are some practical ways families can support each of our key improvement themes.

Literacy

Encourage your child to read for pleasure at home.
Support opportunities to develop communication skills through debating, presentations and public speaking.

Numeracy

Highlight the importance of numeracy in everyday life.
Point out real-life examples where maths is used.

Attendance

Ensure your child attends school every day where possible.
Encourage punctuality and arriving on time.

Retention

Highlight the importance of completing second-level education.
Encourage your child to participate in the many extra-curricular and co-curricular opportunities available while continuing to engage fully with their classwork and homework.

Supporting Educational Transitions

Talk to your child about their transition from primary school to secondary school and regularly check how they are settling in.
Discuss the subject options available after Junior Cycle and attend school information evenings.
Support your child when making subject choices by exploring their interests and future aspirations together.
Have open conversations about the different education, training and career pathways available after the Leaving Certificate.

Attainment

Discuss assessment results, including Week 10, Week 20, Mock Examinations, end-of-year assessments and class tests, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Encourage your child to complete homework and assignments each evening.
Check and sign your child's school journal regularly to stay informed of school communications.
Praise effort, celebrate achievements and encourage a positive attitude towards learning.

Partnership with Parents

Attend Parent-Teacher Meetings to discuss your child's progress.
Take part in parent information evenings and school events.
Ensure you have access to VSware so you can receive important school communications.
Consider becoming involved in the Parents' Association and supporting school initiatives.

Partnership with Others

If you have links with local businesses, community organisations or other services, let the school's Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) Coordinator know.
Working together with parents and the wider community helps strengthen opportunities and experiences for all students.