The Board of Governors of St Patrick’s Cathedral Grammar School has announced (16.04.14),that it will enter the Free Education Scheme in September 2014.

According the Principal, Sylvia Hick, moving into the Free Education Scheme will enable the Grammar School to maintain its high standard of education, while retaining its curriculum and current teaching staff. The school ’s entry to the scheme will offer a choice to those seeking a school with a Protestant ethos in the Dublin city centre without having to pay fees.”

Founded in 1547, the Grammar School, along with the Choir School comprise the Cathedral Schools, and are the country’s oldest schools. Both schools are located beside St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin 8. The Grammar School is a voluntary secondary school under the patronage of the Church of Ireland, and this will remain the case in to the future.

According to Ms Hick: “This as a very positive step forward for the school. As a school with a strong tradition in education for over four centuries, we have adapted and developed according to the needs of our pupils, parents and curriculum. The movement into the Free Education Scheme is yet another development in our rich history.

“Since the recent economic downturn, it is clear to us that some families are turning down offers of a place in the school because they cannot afford it. Our transition into the Free Education Scheme now offers diversity of choice to those parents.”

The Grammar School was originally founded to educate boy choristers for St Patrick’s Cathedral. It has now evolved into a modern, co-educational school serving the needs of a diverse student body. However, music remains a core element of its curriculum .
“ I am particularly pleased the Department of Education and Skills has recognised the Grammar School’s strong musical tradition by allocating a specific teaching post for music and choral studies. Music has always been an important part of the school’s ethos , and the post ensures that this will continue into the future , ” said Ms Hick.

St Patrick’s Grammar School currently has 122 pupils. In moving into the Free Education Scheme, the school would hope to increase the number of available places to meet anticipated demand. “We already have plans for a limited building programme which would enable us to increase our intake. Over the coming years, we look forward to working with the Department of Education and Skills through the Free Education Scheme with a view to offering choice and diversity in the secondary cycle,” added Ms Hick.

Source: School Press Release

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