During March 2006 inspectors from the Department of Education and Science visited St. Fergal’s for a number of days and evaluated classrooms and observed teaching and learning. The inspectors interacted with students and teachers, examined students’ work and interacted with class teachers. They reviewed school planning documentation and teachers’ written preparation, and met with various staff teams where appropriate.

The inspectors then issued a report on its findings, these findings have also for the first time been posted up on the Department of Educations Website for public viewing.

We got on excellently and we are very proud of the work we do at St. Fergal’s.

Here are some of the findings of the evaluation:


1. In line with its mission statement the school strives to provide a quality education for all students in the school.



2. The work of the senior management team is carried out effectively and efficiently in a collaborative manner ensuring that a partnership approach with staff and students is fostered.



3. Management strives to provide students with a broad curriculum and a comprehensive range of subjects and programmes.



4. The provision of extra- and co-curricular activities is comprehensive and the members of staff involved make a most valuable contribution to the holistic education of the students.



5. The staff is to be commended on the dedicated and professional approach to teaching and learning as observed in the course of the subject inspections.



6. The atmosphere in the classrooms visited was positive and conducive to learning. Classroom management was uniformly good and discipline was sensitively maintained.



7. There has been a long tradition of learning support in the school. In general the school continues to cater well for students in need of learning support.



8. The pastoral care of the students is recognised first and foremost as being the concern of all staff members. The concern for the emotional and physical wellbeing of students is paramount in school life.