DEIS Annual Report 2026

This academic year was a very busy time for Ballymahon Vocational school in relation to DEIS. In November we had our inspection on ‘Evaluation of learning and planning for improvement - DEIS’.

Staff and students were inspected by the DEY over three days, and the findings in the inspectorate’s report were extremely positive. It was noted that ‘The quality of learning outcomes and experiences was very good overall with examples of excellent practice in lessons. The use of group work, differentiation and teacher support was highly praised. Classroom management was also praised. One key point which was noted was that the ‘Teachers clearly had very good relationships with their students, encouraged them and praised them for their efforts. Students responded positively by asking for support and for clarifications as necessary.’ Again, this highlights Ballymahon Vocational School’s ongoing goal to show the ‘Individual Matters’.

The area of Literacy was also praised with it being noted as examples of good to very good practice observed. Some key strategies which were implemented through our theme of Literacy were

• · Use of student surveys and collection of base-line data through powerful peer collaboration.
• · There were some excellent literacy interventions in the school including those implemented as part of the JCSP programme.
• · Planning for the implementation of universal literacy actions showed very good improvements for certain cohorts of students.
• · Excellent systems and structures were in place to support peer collaboration and provide effective supports to other DEIS themes.

Following on from this our new DEIS plan for the forthcoming three years has also been developed by staff. Some new initiatives for the next period are.

• · The school will pursue the National Well-Read Award as an anchor for all efforts to promote positive attitudes toward ‘reading for pleasure.’
• · Vocabulary Enrichment Programme to develop Literacy Skills (NCSE)
• · Teacher floating hours to support those most in need
• · Parents will be surveyed on their needs and wants for the school. This will include interest in sitting on the Parents’ Association.
• · Recognition of improved attendance, not only perfect attendance.

As always, DEIS is at the forefront of everything we do here in Ballymahon Vocational to help support our students in school and in the wider community.