Generous praise from minister as he formally opens Ratoath College

The official opening of Ratoath College was carried out by the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O'Keeffe, last Wednesday morning, when he congratulated the school on its impressive IT facilities. The €14.5 million school came into use two years ago after the founding of Ratoath College in 2005. It had been based at Fairyhouse Racecourse for a number of years. In 2005, there were 66 students and six teachers, and the school now has 614 pupils, 47 teachers, eight special needs assistants, a secretary and caretaker. It can accommodate 875 students.The school building has 60 rooms, including six technology suites, five science suites, two computer labs, a multi-media suite and gym. Minister O'Keeffe said: "I'm delighted to be here in Ratoath to celebrate the official opening of this impressive new school which will enhance teaching and learning for students in the area for many years. Information Communications Technology is an integral part of teaching in Ratoath College. I'm delighted to learn that all classrooms have interactive whiteboards, ceiling-mounted projectors and a computer." The minister said the school prides itself on its modern and progressive approach to teaching and learning. "This academic year sees the college's first Leaving Certificate class, and the Leaving Certificate Applied class has laptops to facilitate pupils' progression through the programme." Minister O'Keeffe congratulated Ratoath College on its participation in Project Maths, a pilot project designed to teach maths in a way that promotes better understanding of mathematical concepts and the everyday relevance of the subject. "Project Maths holds a particular interest for me given that it is designed to encourage a greater take-up at higher level and provide a solid foundation for careers in science, technology, engineering, business and humanities, as we seek to build a knowledge economy," the minister added. "Your participation in this initiative will ensure that this school will be at the cutting edge of maths reform in the years ahead." The opening of the institution, the first new second-level school opened in the county in a decade, was attended by students, teachers, parents, community representatives, local public representatives, Meath VEC and other educational representatives from inside and outside the county.