Teaching & Learning at Waterford Educate Together NS

At Waterford Educate Together National School, our teaching and learning is rooted in respect, inclusion, creativity and care. We believe that every child is capable, curious and full of potential — and our role as educators is to nurture that through a broad, balanced and engaging curriculum.

We are proud to be part of the Educate Together network of schools, which means our approach is:

  • Child-centred – placing the needs, abilities and interests of each child at the heart of what we do.
  • Equality-based – all children are treated with equal respect, regardless of background, belief or identity.
  • Democratically run – we encourage student voice and active participation.
  • Co-educational – we promote mutual respect and positive interaction between all genders.

🌱 A Holistic Curriculum

Our curriculum follows the national Primary School Curriculum, but we bring it to life through:

  • Inquiry-based learning
  • Collaborative projects
  • Creative arts and storytelling
  • Outdoor learning and green initiatives
  • The use of digital tools and technology in the classroom

We aim not only for academic excellence but to help children grow as kind, thoughtful and critical-thinking citizens.

🌍 Ethical Education – What Makes Us Different

At Waterford ETNS, one of the most distinctive parts of our curriculum is the Learn Together Ethical Education programme.

This curriculum replaces religious instruction with a values-based approach that supports every child — regardless of their background or belief system.

We focus on teaching shared human values like kindness, honesty, fairness, and respect. Children explore big ideas around:

  • Moral and spiritual development
  • Equality and justice
  • Belief systems from around the world
  • Ethics and the environment

Unlike denominational schools, we do not provide faith formation. Instead, we teach children about a wide range of religions and worldviews in an open and respectful way, without promoting any one belief as “right” or “wrong”.

This helps children develop:

  • Critical thinking
  • Respect for difference
  • A strong sense of personal identity
  • An understanding of others in a diverse society

The result is a classroom environment that feels inclusive, reflective, and grounded in curiosity — a space where every child feels seen and respected.

🏅 Celebrating Learning

Learning at Waterford ETNS is not confined to textbooks. We celebrate our students’ efforts and achievements in many ways:

  • Participation in Green Schools, Active School Flag, and Blue Star programmes
  • A vibrant Student Council
  • School-wide events like Science Week, Art Exhibitions, Multicultural Days and Seachtain na Gaeilge
  • A strong commitment to inclusive special education support

🤝 Working Together

We recognise that children thrive when schools and families work in partnership. Parents and guardians are active collaborators in their children’s learning, and we welcome their voices at every stage.

Teaching and learning at Waterford ETNS is joyful, values-led, and rooted in respect — preparing children not just for school, but for life.