Empowering Children to Reach

their Full Educational

Potential

Sarah Grimson

Trinity College

Children’s Rights Alliance SymposiumDublin Castle2nd April 2009

The Schools & Community

Outreach Links

Developing Alternative Admissions Routes,

Policies & Procedures

Learning What Works: TAP Evaluation &

Research

The Post Entry Progression Programme

I. Aims of the SCOL Programme

Strengthen connections between TCD and schools designated as disadvantaged.

Increase interest among students in remaining in education and attending third level.

Provide parents with the support and skills necessary to facilitate their child's interest in education and third level.

To increase the number of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds who proceed to third level education.

Primary School Activities

School Visits Maths & Science Exploration Programme Bookmarks Treasure Chests Parents Information Sessions

Second Level Activities

School Visits Junior Cycle:

TAP Educational Achievement Awards TCD Medical Day Parents Evening

Senior Cycle: Computer Clubhouse TAP Student Shadowing Day Programme TAP Summer School Take-5 Summer Programme Exploring Options Day Honours Maths Support Programme

II. Targeted Entry Routes

• Foundation Course for Higher Education

• TCD CDVEC Partnership Access Course

• Higher Education Access Route

III. Post Entry Progression

Academic Social: “It is like whole community type

thing…it is just brilliant, there is always somebody that you can talk to”.

Personal: “If I hadn’t got a TAP connection…I don’t think I would have lasted ‘cause you are very out on your own”.

Financial

““Since our school became involved with Since our school became involved with TAP, I have noticed that the notion of TAP, I have noticed that the notion of

third level education rests easier with our third level education rests easier with our students. They have now accepted that students. They have now accepted that

going to university is a viable option and going to university is a viable option and during school visits to Trinity they walk during school visits to Trinity they walk

the campus without any feeling of the campus without any feeling of unease or of not belonging”unease or of not belonging”

Teacher, TAP link Second Level SchoolTeacher, TAP link Second Level School

“It is important to go to college because as we grow older people will give you more

respect, will treat you equally in society and you will feel free and happy”.

1st Year Student TAP link Second Level School1st Year Student TAP link Second Level School