Prestigious digital schools award Europe achieved by multiple Wexford schools

A group of post-primary schools, part of the Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), have received national recognition as among the first in Ireland to achieve the prestigious Digital Schools Award Europe through a collaborative cluster…

Four Wexford schools were received recognition. The distinction was awarded to Coláiste Abbáin, Adamstown, Bridgetown College, Bunclody Community College, Kennedy College, New Ross and St Paul’s Community College, Waterford in recognition of their shared commitment to digital excellence in education.

The award validator praised the cluster’s strong focus on collaboration and sharing best practices to advance technology in classrooms and prioritising ongoing professional development and mentoring.

To achieve the award, each school demonstrated a comprehensive whole-school digital strategy, effective integration of technology to enhance learning, and a commitment to ongoing professional development for teachers. These coordinated initiatives have enhanced the digital learning experience for students across the entire school cluster.

Speaking to Wexford Weekly, WWETB Director of Schools, Eimear Ryan added:

“We are thrilled to celebrate the shared success of the WWETB schools in achieving the Digital Schools Award. This achievement reflects their outstanding teamwork, innovation, and commitment to delivering high-quality digital education. The award recognises not only individual school efforts but also the powerful impact of their collaborative approach in preparing students with essential digital skills for the future.”

Annmarie Whelan, Education Manager at HP Ireland, said:

“Digital skills are crucial for young people’s success. It is inspiring to see these schools recognised for their commitment to digital teaching and learning.”

Supported by HP, AMD, and government partners, the Digital Schools Awards programme provides a development roadmap, resources, and assessment tools through the European Commission’s SELFIE survey. Participating schools benefit from a robust framework covering leadership, collaboration, infrastructure, professional development, assessment and digital competencies in learning and teaching, ensuring sustained excellence in digital education.

“Achieving this award reflects the dedication of our entire school community to innovative learning,” said Sarah Roche, Principal, Kennedy College “The recognition motivates us to further develop digital opportunities for students.”

Currently, 357 Irish schools are part of the Digital Schools Awards Europe programme. Schools can participate for free by visiting www.digitalschoolsawards.eu to assess and enhance their digital education practices.