‘Very good’ verdict on maths at local school

‘Very good’ was the verdict on the quality of teaching and learning in Mathematics at Mullingar Community College in a recent Dept of Education inspection, which praised the active learning approaches, strong student support systems and commitment to professional development.

Mullingar Community College, under the patronage of Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board, had an enrolment of 371 students at the time of the inspection. The school offers a wide range of programmes, including Junior Cycle, Transition Year, Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied and Level 2 Learning Programmes. It also participates in the DEIS programme and has two autism classes.

Inspectors found that mathematics lessons were characterised by welcoming classroom environments where students were encouraged and supported to participate. Active learning featured in most lessons observed, and students regularly worked in pairs, taking part in practical activities and engaging in problem-solving exercises. In one lesson, students measured distance and time to calculate speed, while another used a Connect Four-style game to reinforce learning.

Students who met inspectors said they enjoyed opportunities to work collaboratively and valued feedback from teachers. The report noted that many lessons successfully encouraged students to take ownership of their learning and made effective use of visual, physical and digital resources.

Assessment practices were rated as good, and teachers regularly monitor progress through questioning and observation. Inspectors recommended that teachers place a greater emphasis on higher-order questioning to challenge students and encourage them to explain their mathematical thinking. They also called for more consistent use of formative feedback, including written comments that help students improve their work.

Whole-school support for Mathematics was described as very good. Inspectors praised the close collaboration between mathematics teachers, special educational needs staff and school management to support students with additional needs. The school was also commended for its extensive provision of mathematics classes, strong technology resources and active culture of teacher collaboration and professional learning.

Planning and preparation in the mathematics department were also rated very good. Inspectors noted the efforts to align learning across levels and programmes, while recommending that planning documents include more detailed guidance on teaching methodologies, learning experiences and evaluation of student progress.

The report concluded that Mathematics is a significant strength, and there are opportunities to build further on existing success through enhanced feedback practices and greater promotion of mathematical reasoning and communication.