The world is changing at such a hectic pace that no one can predict what skills will be necessary for the next decade ( not to mention when our present Junior infants finish their education). Unfortunately, sometimes ‘Education’ places a greater emphasis on tests and grades than the whole child. As Sir Ken Robinson has noted ‘We penalise students for being wrong’ but unless we make mistakes then we will never learn.
As we know intelligence is diverse, dynamic, and distinct to every child. Here in Scoil Naomh Iosef we realise and believe in this. We know that every child has talents and working as a team we encourage each child to nurture and grow their talents. We do this by valuing Creativity in every aspect of the school day. Picasso said that ‘Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.’ We see our students’ creative capabilities for the richness they are. We use every opportunity from science to drama, P.E. to film, maths to Gaeilge, etc., etc. to instil in the children a joy of learning, an opportunity to ‘take a chance‘ in a safe environment where we all are learning through our mistakes.
We can achieve this aspiration because we have an enthusiastic staff who are supported by a Board of Management with a clear vision for the betterment of our school. Through the support and input of the parents of our students, we have a school that is vibrant and happy for everyone.
As I begin teaching every year I put one word on the board, RESPECT. If we all come from a place of Respect then I firmly believe that any challenge can be overcome. The staff in Scoil Naomh Iosef live this every day as they mix with the students, teachers, and parents in our school. At present, the wonderful words of John Hume greet you as you enter the gates ‘The answer to difference is to respect it ‘.
I look forward to meeting you in the future.
Terence Dineen
Principal