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English Department

English is taught by 11 qualified teachers many of whom have had experience of teaching both in Ireland and abroad.

The members of the department are:

• Hilda Quin
• Conall Hamill
• Penny O'Sullivan
• Monica Docherty
• Ann Fitzsimons
• Paul Reidy
• Robert McDermot
• Gina Doran
• Nicola Carter
• Stephen Gill
• Stephen McArdle

The English courses in St. Andrew's are designed to meet the requirements of the Irish Junior and Leaving Certificate programmes, or the International Baccalaureate programme.

Students in 1st year are placed in mixed ability classes for English. In 2nd year they are assigned to classes in accordance with their ability.

Likewise, Transition Year students study English in mixed ability classes, moving to Higher or Ordinary Level groups in 5th and 6th year for the Leaving Certificate programme.

The English Department hopes that the courses provided in language and literature helps students to improve their communication skills and increase their confidence in self-expression; to acquire an understanding and appreciation of literature, an enjoyment of reading and the theatre; and to establish a sound basis for literary judgement.

In addition to teaching the required programmes, the English teachers supplement and enhance the students' experience of this subject by organising, activities such as visits to the theatre, inviting guest speakers/authors, encouraging students to write for The Wine-Dark Sea, and Grapevine, the creative writing journal and magazine produced by staff and students of the English Department. The English Department plays a major role in the organisation of the St. Andrew's College Arts' Week, during which students perform a one-act play which is often written by an English teacher. Students are encouraged to enter writing competitions and frequently win prestigious prizes. Several former students have gone on to become published authors. Debating in St. Andrew's is catered for by the MUN and MEP. Several members of the department are involved in these organisations, giving students the opportunity to have their views heard at home and abroad.