School Strategic Planning

Planning for the development of an 1,000-pupil school requires a concerted effort by the whole community to work towards a common purpose. The creation of staff teams, which help to activate student and parent voice, allows a strategic approach in the development of a fit-for-purpose 21st century urban secondary school.

By always putting teaching and learning to the fore, the school can plan for the needs of a diverse student population during its formative years. 

Teaching, Learning, Assessment and Reporting (TLAR)/Board of Studies Team

This team supports the Senior Management Team in promoting highly effective learner experiences and learner outcomes. This is achieved through School Self Evaluation (SSE), advising the principal on matters related to the curriculum, and promoting the advancement of the best learning and teaching practices for all staff. The TLAR/Board of Studies team also oversees excellent assessment practices and have a role in the creation of a Transition Year and Leaving Certificate programme for our school.

Student Support Team (SST)

The Student Support Team works proactively and reactively to support the wellbeing of the entire student body. Through initiatives like anti-bullying campaigns, LGBTQI week and the Amber Flag initiative, the team helps to create a resilience and contentedness at a time when so much in society is changing so fast. The Student Support Team also identifies students who need additional guidance or emotional support and puts scaffolding in place to allow students to feel safe and happy coming to school. In doing this, the SST ensures that the TLAR team can have the most impact possible.

The Additional Support Needs Team (ASN)

The ASN team supports students who require additional support to access the curriculum. These students may have a diagnosed need like dyslexia or dyspraxia or may be identified as needing support for other reasons. Some students may need support in navigating social and emotional life at school and others may have primary care needs which can only be addressed by having SNA access. Support can be offered with team teaching or in small groups or sometimes in a one-to-one setting. While the classroom teacher remains responsible for all the students in their class, the ASN team can further support identified students to achieve the best that they can. The ASN team also supports the work of the TLAR/Board of Studies team and communicates with the SST.

Digital Strategy Team (DST)

The DST supports and encourages teachers and students to make the best use of digital technology so that it supports and not distracts from the core work of the school - learning and teaching. On a practical level, the DST ensures that WIFI, internet, school hardware and other equipment are maintained to a high standard. In a strategic way, the DST advises the Board of Management and principal on appropriate spending of grants to support the overall needs and priorities of the school. The DST also promotes online safety and highlights the necessity of good sleep hygiene. 

Ethos/Patron Team (PT)

The Ethos/Patron Team is the main point of contact between the Educate Together Ethical Education national network and Goatstown ETSS. In doing this, the team aims to plan for global development education, the Ethical Education curriculum and for links to be made between the equality-based ethos of Educate Together and the learner experiences and outcomes for students. The PT also works to promote student voice in the day-to-day life of the school.