Killorglin Community College a leader in online learning

KILLORGLIN Community College is leading the way in the domain of eTwinning and information and communication technology following the announcement that the Kerry school has won a prestigious title for its innovation.

Last week the Killorglin school was awarded the title of eTwinning School, and it is one of only five schools in the country that have been awarded with this title, and the only one in Kerry. According to the Principal of Killorglin Community College, Vera Kerrisk, this award is for the whole school.

“This is an outstanding achievement and it would not have been possible without the fantastic support of students, teachers, parents and members of the wider community”.

eTwinning is an initiative of the European Commission that encourages European schools to collaborate using Information and Communication Technology. The involvement of Killorglin Community College in eTwinning began in 2017 and was initiated by former principal Donal O’ Reilly. As an eTwinning school, Killorglin Community College is recognised as a pioneer and leader in digital practice, eSafety practice, innovative and creative approaches to teaching and learning, and in promoting collaborative learning practices between staff and students. Its eTwinning involvement has further enhanced the technological aptitude and confidence of teachers and students at the college. In fact, eTwinning by its nature encourages teachers to use technology effectively and consistently.

“eTwinning has not only changed the way that my colleagues and I teach, but it has provided us with the opportunity to emphasise and showcase our experience and expertise in using ICT to facilitate and reinforce high quality teaching and learning,” said Ms Kerrisk.

Two eTwinning National Quality Labels were awarded in August 2019 to two eTwinning projects undertaken at the school. One project entitled “Motivation at School through ICT and Innovative Educational Methods” was led by Mrs Kerrisk and the other project, entitled “Discovering Science and Maths”, was led by her colleague, Marieke O’ Connor. Both projects were also awarded with European Quality Labels. Throughout the duration of the projects, Killorglin Community College partnered with schools in Portugal, Spain, France, Croatia, Belgium, Italy and Estonia using online digital platforms creating websites, eMagazines and flipped classroom videos. These projects saw staff and students travel for a week to each of the participating countries and host staff and students during their return visit to Killorglin.

As an eTwinning school, Killorglin Community College is also recognised as a leader in promoting the continuous professional development of staff at both a national and European level.

“Receiving national and European recognition for their digital and eTwinning endeavours affirms the tremendous work and achievement of Killorglin Community College,” Ms Kerrisk added.

Killorglin Community College students Ethan Victor, Liath Lenihan, Kate Moroney and Michéal Teahan who are now celebrating the schools’s prestigous award for online learning.