Co-ordinator: Laura Griffin

In 2001 St. Andrew’s College opened the European Annexe to provide mother tongue, second and third language tuition for students attending the College whose parents are employed by the European Commission, the Food and Veterinary Office and the European Foundation. A special building was commissioned to house theAnnexe. It comprises eight classrooms and a small communal area that is used as a library and a social area. This building has come to be known, affectionately, as ‘The European Village’. During the day, it possesses a lively, intercultural atmosphere and is frequently ablaze with colour from the seasonal decorations which are continually being produced by the various classes there.

Mother Tongue Languages

Students from both the Junior and Secondary Schools attend mother tongue classes in the European Annexe five periods per week, when their classmates have Irish. The Annexe also provides mother tongue language tuition for students who wish to follow the IB programme in Fifth and Sixth Year.

Second and Third Language Instruction

 Secondary School students have 4-5 periods of second language classes per week and Junior School students have three periods. Third language tuition is provided when requested. In addition, students in the Junior School attend one period of European studies per week.

Examinations

Students have the opportunity to sit examinations (Junior and Leaving Certificate or International Baccalaureate) in their mother tongue, second or third language.

English as a Second Language

Students requiring tuition in English as a second language attend classes at 8.15am. In the Junior School, these take place five mornings per week and in the Senior School as required. Intensive English language tuition is available for students who have little or no English when they arrive in Ireland.

The staff in the Annexe have put a huge amount of effort into delivering the varied teaching program which is tailored to the needs and interests of their students. Teachers and parents have developed many contacts with schools and other educational organisations in their home countries. Through these contacts, they can acquire valuable information about changing educational policies and practices of which they need to be aware.

The opening of the European Annexe at St. Andrew’s College was a very significant contribution to the provision of educational services for overseas children temporarily resident in Ireland. We look forward to expanding the role and resources of the Annexe in the years ahead.