Catholic schools must remain true to their foundations – status quo will not achieve this
Failure to evolve undermines both education system and mission of Catholic schools
The pragmatic option is to sit down with the Department of Education and work out a comprehensive agreement to rebalance patronage at primary level.
Catholic education in Ireland requires radical change if it is to remain relevant in an increasingly pluralist society. To date, the conversation has focused largely on the need to rebalance the patronage profile of our primary schools. Such a move enjoys broad support, but if Catholic schools are to remain relevant, change must go beyond simply a downsizing exercise. What change will look like and the pace at which it comes depends on the ability of those leading Catholic education to create a compelling vision for it.
Catholic schools are recognised around the world for excellence in academics, for instilling a commitment to civic engagement, for fostering leadership, and for nurturing a respect for the dignity of the person. Intentional Catholic schools embed these pursuits in their culture, and they are a trademark that has contributed to the Catholic church becoming the largest non-governmental provider of education in the world serving more than 12 million students annually.