Kilrush Community School received a grant in 2021 under the Irish National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), a project funded by the European Union through NextGenerationEU, to support initiatives addressing the digital divide and educational disadvantage. This funding forms part of the Recovery and Resilience Facility.

The primary objective of the grant was to support learners at risk of educational disadvantage due to limited access to digital infrastructure. With this funding, we have invested significantly in enhancing our school's digital learning environment through the purchase of computing devices, including:

• Desktop PCs

• Laptops and laptop trolleys

• Data projectors and networked printers

These investments have enabled us to strengthen teaching, learning and assessment across all levels, particularly in support of:

• Junior Cycle Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs)

• Senior Cycle STEAM subjects, including Design & Communication Graphics and Leaving Certificate Physical Education

We have also purchased managed devices as part of our strategy. These managed devices are centrally configured and maintained, ensuring consistency, security, and ease of use for both staff and students. The benefits include:

• Enhanced device security and data protection

• Remote support and updates, reducing downtime

• Streamlined integration with educational platforms such as Microsoft Office 365, including MS Teams and OneNote

• Improved user experience and equitable access to digital learning tools

Microsoft Office 365 is our platform of choice and is fully utilised across the school community to support communication, collaboration, and learning. These digital technologies also contribute significantly to our wellbeing programme, providing additional ways to engage with students and support their holistic development.

Our upgraded computer room is now fully equipped to facilitate the development of computational thinking, digital literacy, and creativity, empowering students with skills essential for further education and the modern workplace.

This investment would not have been possible without the generous support of the European Union through NextGeneration EU, and we are proud to continue developing an inclusive, innovative digital learning environment at Kilrush Community School.