DEIS – Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools

Deele College

DEIS – Parents Summary Report 2025-2026

Deele College has been an active participant in the DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) programme for many years. Our DEIS plan serves as a comprehensive, whole-school strategy aimed at enhancing the learning experience for all students, with a particular focus
on supporting those with additional needs. The plan is continuously reviewed and monitored by our dedicated DEIS team, under the leadership of Ms. Sinéad Hegarty, to ensure meaningful progress and impact across the school community.

Deis Team:

• Literacy: Teresa McGinley
• Numeracy: Roslyn Kane
• Attendance: Shane McArt
• Retention: Sheena Boyle
• Attainment: Jackie Pearson
• Transitions: Fiona Friel
• Partnership with Parents: Sinead Hegarty
• Partnership with Others: Evelyn Gildea

Key Focus Areas for 2025-2026:

• Literacy -Whole-school spelling and grammar checklist to improve students’ writing across all subjects.
• Numeracy -Continued focus on building confidence in maths through a growth mindset (“I can do it”) approach.
• Attendance & Wellbeing – Continued use of the ANSEO model to improve attendance and reduce absenteeism . Use of positive supports such as mentoring and engagement strategies.
• Student Support & Progress -Continued focus on improving student attainment and exam performance. Strengthening supports for transitions between primary, Junior Cycle, Senior Cycle and post-school pathways. Study skills and exam preparation support for students.
• Inclusive Education – Continued support for EAL students and students with additional needs. Focus on ensuring all students can access learning and achieve their potential
• Teaching & Learning – Ongoing staff training to improve student outcomes. Continued use of digital learning tools.
• Student Opportunities – Continued development of STEM programmes, Erasmus+ experiences, and extra-curricular opportunities. Focus on building confidence, skills and student engagement.
• Partnerships – Continued collaboration with parents and external agencies such as Bank of Ireland, Jigsaw, Springboard, Family Resource Centre, SVP and Donegal Youth Services. Continue to strengthen home–school communication and support.
• New Initiative for Parents -Introduction of literacy, numeracy and digital learning classes for parents to support families in helping their child’s learning at home

This is what you can do to help your child:

• Talk regularly with your child about their classes, how they are engaging with their classwork, and the homework they are assigned.
• Encourage your child to take responsibility for their learning and monitor their progress.
• Check the student journal at least once a week and ensure it is signed. This is a great way to stay updated on their work.
• Use the journal to highlight any areas of concern and discuss them with your child and teachers.
• Keep in contact with the year head to ensure you are aware of your child’s progress and any challenges they may face.
• Support your child in completing Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs) and discuss how these can be an opportunity to showcase their learning.
• Attend all information meetings and parent-teacher meetings. Your involvement is key in supporting your child’s academic journey.
• Discuss assessment results regularly, including monthly assessments, Christmas, and summer exams, to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement.
• Support your child to be punctual and attend school every day, as regular attendance is crucial for academic success.
• Arrange appointments outside of school hours where possible to avoid missing important lessons.
• Respond to school surveys, focus groups, and feedback requests. Your input helps inform the school’s planning and improvements, and it is invaluable in ensuring that the school meets the needs of all students.
• Create a supportive learning environment at home by setting aside quiet time for study and encouraging a balanced routine that includes breaks and healthy habits.
• Help your child set academic goals and celebrate achievements, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and motivation.
• Model a positive attitude toward learning, showing your child that education is a lifelong pursuit that extends beyond the classroom.
• Encourage open communication, letting your child know they can talk to you about any challenges they encounter at school, whether academic or social.

“By working together, we can ensure your child’s success and growth in all areas of their education”

What We Have Achieved to Date:

• Improved Literacy & Numeracy: Engaging initiatives such as the Paired Reading programme and Math’s competitions.
• Increased Digital Skills: Upskilling students and staff in digital tools, including AI and Google-based applications.
• Positive Student Engagement: Activities like the Erasmus trip for SEN students and College Awareness Week helped broaden student experiences.
• Increased Parental Involvement: 200+ home visits, Parent Power Hours for boosting literacy, and a 1st Year Welcome Morning helped build school-family connections.