Digital Strategy ICT Infrastructure Grant for the 2016/2017 academic year
Fine Gael’s education strategy sets out a clear vision to fulfil the potential of digital technologies to transform the learning experiences of students.
Approximately €3.42 million has been allocated to Cork primary and post-primary schools, to develop information and communications technology.
It forms part of a total funding package of €30 million nationally by the Department of Education and Skills to develop ICT infrastructure in schools.
The Digital Strategy ICT Infrastructure Grant for the 2016/2017 academic year is worth approximately €4,000 for a 100 pupil school and approximately €11,000 for a 500 pupil school at primary level.
At post-primary level, the grant is worth circa €15,000 for a 500 student school, and over €27,000 for a 1,000 student school and will benefit 427 schools in Cork.
The funding will support the development and implementation of an eLearning Plan for each school to embed ICT in teaching and learning.
At primary level, large extensions have been added to Kilcredan NS, Scartleigh NS in Saleen, Whitegate Mixed NS, Scoil Iosagain in Aghada, St John the Baptist NS and Rushbrooke NS. A new Community National School, Scoil Chliodhna, opened last September in Carrigtwohill and construction is ongoing on Gaelscoil Mhainistir na Corann.
At secondary level, St Aloysius’ College and St Mary’s High School has been extended and Midleton CBS Secondary School opened what is virtually a new school in September this year and construction is underway at St Colman’s for a huge extension.
Minor Works Grant for 2016/2017 academic year
The Minor Works Grant for the current school year, was made available by the Government’s Department for Education and Skills. It is for relatively small scale, but necessary, improvements to primary school facilities and equipment.
It is worth €5,500 per school plus an additional €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil.
The works that can be undertaken under the Minor Works Grant include:
- Improvements to school buildings and grounds
- Improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services
- The purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment
- The purchase of floor coverings and window blinds and the purchase of IT related equipment.
