18th December 2024
Saint Kevin’s College has received outstanding feedback in its recent Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) Report released today, 18th December 2024. The inspectors highlighting St. Kevin’s College as a nurturing and successful environment for young people to learn and grow.
The report noted that St. Kevin’s College's vision and values are central to school life. Core principles such as respect, compassion, and community are reflected not just in planning and learning but also in the school’s day-to-day culture, where pupils feel supported & celebrated to achieve their best.
Principal Gary Kelly welcomed the brilliant inspection report commenting, " We are the 1st school in Fermanagh and only the 2nd secondary school in our sector in N.I. to receive an inspection report in this new model. This outstanding report is a testament to the wonderful pupils of our college, our hard working, committed and driven teachers and staff who go well beyond the extra mile for the children. It also recognises the world-class opportunities and results the young people achieve in St. Kevin’s College including the many international trips that the pupils experience to other schools and communities in Kenya, Africa & Spain as well as the wide range of sporting, business, charity events and partnerships that the pupils benefit from. We were also praised for the wide range after-school clubs that the school runs."
Mr Kelly said he was delighted that the hard-working governors of St. Kevin’s College also received recognition. Mr Kelly said this week was, "A very successful week for St. Kevin’s College because not only did we receive this outstanding inspection report but also the New St. Kevin’s College School Building went out to public tender, to N.I. contractors, and our new school building is due to start in April 2025." Mr Kelly said the inspectors recognised that the St. Kevin’s is oversubscribed, in every year group, and has grown from 580 pupils in 2016 to 760 pupils in 2024, an increase of 30%.
The inspectors praised the brilliant academic success of the St. Kevin’s College, with 98% of Year 12 pupils achieving five GCSE or equivalent qualifications at grades A* to C ( and 88% of Year 12 pupils achieving five GCSEs including English & Maths). The curriculum was described as broad and balanced, supporting pupils in making smooth transitions from primary to secondary school and continuing on to university & further education.
The inspectors highlighted the pupils’ exemplary behaviour and the school’s innovative approach to education. This includes using artificial intelligence (A.I.) in classrooms, supported by professional learning for staff, to enhance both teaching and pupils’ learning experiences.
The inspection report noted that St. Kevin’s College balances the educational disadvantages some pupils face by prioritising their well-being. It offers initiatives such as a free breakfast club, fresh food available to all, sensory spaces, a therapy dog and nurture rooms. Pupils told inspectors they feel safe and secure and this is reflected in the school’s welcoming, caring, stimulating, creative, passionate, motivating and trusting environment.
The school’s strong connections within the local community were also commended. Partnerships with businesses and employers enhance pupils’ educational experiences and help develop important skills for the future. Careers advice and work-related learning are tailored to guide pupils through key educational decision-making stages.
While congratulating all staff, the Board of Governors Chairman, Thomas O’Reilly, added, "There isn't one person who comes in through this door who doesn't put in 100% effort. The staff here go above and beyond for the pupils and school community, and that's evidenced by the report and the generations of children who have passed through St. Kevin's."
The report captures St. Kevin’s College's dedication to creating a positive environment where pupils thrive academically, socially, and personally. The school’s ethos continues to inspire success and ambition in its pupils.
Comments