The Irish Primary School Curriculum Framework
At the heart of this Curriculum framework are eight overarching principles that guide learning, teaching, and assessment in primary education. The START Competition, an innovative initiative that engages children in real-world projects, directly supports and enhances these principles in meaningful ways.
1. Partnership
The Curriculum framework emphasises collaboration among schools, families, and communities. The START Competition embodies this principle by bringing together children, teachers, parents, and local communities to work on projects that go beyond the classroom.
2. Learning Environments
The Curriculum framework advocates for diverse, stimulating environments—both indoors and outdoors—that nurture independence and support engagement across the curriculum. The START Competition encourages children to explore various environments as they work on their projects, whether they are conducting experiments, collecting data in nature, or presenting their findings. This variety of settings enriches their learning experience and encourages a deeper connection with their surroundings. Many previous START Competition entries involve activities outside of the classroom or allowed children to move into different classroom environments to conduct the trial.
For example, the 2023 first place trial studied “Running debate: Should we run for distance or time?“. You can find more examples of these past projects here
3. Inclusive Education and Diversity
Inclusive education is a cornerstone of the Primary Curriculum Framework, ensuring that every child has access to equitable learning opportunities. The START Competition welcomes children of all abilities and backgrounds, fostering a learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.
“The START methodology also supports differentiation and inclusion, as it allows different ability levels to engage with the same project but at their own level”
Dara Glynn, Primary School Principal
4. Pedagogy
The Curriculum framework emphasises the use of evidence-based pedagogical approaches that engage children and connect learning to their life experiences. The START Competition promotes these approaches by involving children in hands-on, inquiry-based learning projects that are relevant to their interests and real-world contexts. This method not only deepens their understanding but also makes learning more engaging and meaningful.
5. Engagement and Participation
The Curriculum framework promotes children ownership of learning. The START Competition is a perfect example of this principle in action. Children are given the opportunity to lead their projects, make choices about the question they will answer, their approach, and ultimately work together creatively. This active participation fosters a sense of agency and responsibility, empowering children to take charge of their learning journey.
6. Relationships
Caring and supportive relationships within the school community are essential for creating a positive learning environment. The START Competition encourages the development of strong, supportive relationships among children, teachers, and parents as they work together on projects. This collaborative spirit not only boosts motivation but also helps to create a nurturing and inclusive school culture. Previous START Competition entries have included cross-age peer-learning, with older children including and supporting younger children to participate in the trial. This approach can benefit both groups: younger children receive guidance and explanations from their older peers, while older children reinforce their own knowledge by teaching others. It can also foster leadership, communication skills, and a sense of community among children.
On the testimonial page, listen to Seamus Foudy and Iseult Mangan share how they involved cross-age peer learning in their winning trials.
7. Transitions and Continuity
Smooth transitions in learning are key to children development. The START Competition builds on prior knowledge and skills, helping children gain confidence and reinforcing their learning journey.
8. Assessment and Progression
Meaningful assessment is an integral part of high-quality learning and teaching and a key principle of the Curriculum framework. Every submission to the START Competition is carefully assessed by our judges, and each participant receives a feedback letter. This feedback helps children reflect on their work, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for future growth. Teachers can also use the completed projects as a record of work.
Shortlisted classes that are invited to the awards ceremony receive detailed verbal feedback from our judges.
Conclusion
The START Competition is more than just a project-based learning activity; it is a powerful tool that supports the principles of the Irish Primary Curriculum Framework. By fostering partnerships, creating diverse learning environments, promoting inclusive education, and encouraging active participation, the competition enriches the educational experience for all children.
