English
Language is the primary tool for human communication, enabling the expression of ideas, information, emotions, and creativity. The English curriculum views language learning as an integrated process, with oral language, reading, and writing treated as inseparable.
Oral communication is given special emphasis, as it supports children’s cognitive development and helps them acquire social and communication skills. It is also essential across other subjects, where discussion, questioning, and dialogue are key strategies for learning.
A strong focus on literacy is central to the English curriculum. Reading comprehension, the development of vocabulary and critical thinking are particularly emphasised, with children engaging with a variety of texts. From the early years, students are immersed in a print-rich environment, and the joy of reading is a focal point of their education.
Our beautiful, parent-run library offers our pupils access to an up-to-date and attractive collection of books, nurturing a lifelong love of reading—an invaluable gift!
Writing is also developed progressively, with children learning to express themselves clearly and creatively for different audiences and purposes, across various genres. Each year, pupils from Junior Infants to 2nd Class take part in the Write-A-Book competition, where they design, write, and publish their own books—whether fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or biography.
An Ghaeilge
Irish, our native language, is a central part of Scoil Naomh Pádraig’s curriculum. The Irish language curriculum follows a communicative, task-based approach to language acquisition. Learning is shaped by pupils’ interests and needs, with activities like games, conversations, role-plays, and drama encouraging children to use Irish in an engaging and natural way. Irish is also used informally in interactions throughout the school day. The broader Irish programme promotes cultural pride and awareness, allowing pupils to experience Irish dance, music, storytelling, folklore, and poetry.
It is important that children hear Irish as a living language. This is done through opportunities to communicate throughout the school day and to engage in real-life situations, for example, Siopa SNP (shopping) or a Seó Faiseanta (a fashion show)! Each week we introduce a Frása na Seachtaine (Phrase of the Week) and the children are encouraged to use their bank of phrases both at home and in school. The children also learn a seanfhocail each month, which adds a richness to the Gaeilge that they use. Seachtain na Gaeilge is one of our favourite weeks in the year, when we celebrate all things Irish together!