School Development

The school continues to grow and develop with each generation of pupils.

  • A new Computer Room was introduced in 1998 with capacity for a whole class to participate in a computer lesson.
  • In 2013, the two courtyards were developed into a Library Garden and an Outdoor Classroom – a new dimension to pupil learning!
  • In 2014, SFX Senior School opened its first autism class “SONAS” and we were delighted to welcome pupils transitioning from the Junior School autism class.
  • With the funding received from the Parents’ Contribution in 2016, the school library was redesigned and relocated.
  • In 2017, thanks to the tremendous fundraising efforts by the Parents’ Association together with support from the Boards of Management of the Junior and Senior schools, a joint school astro-turf pitch was developed on the school grounds.
  • In 2016, an ICT plan was drawn by the staff and Board of Management and spearheaded by Deputy Principal, Ms. Deirdre Byrne. The Board committed to significant investment in technology to enhance teaching and learning in the school and prepare the pupils for the demands of the 21st We are delighted then that in November 2018, St. Francis Xavier Senior School was awarded Digital School of Distinction status.

 

In late 2021, our school was selected to be part of a Department of Education project in Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), supported by the European Union through NextGenerationEU funding under its Recovery and Resilience Facility.

As part of this initiative, our school received an upgrade to our internet infrastructure, significantly enhancing online learning opportunities, digital teaching tools, and access to educational resources. This improvement supports our ongoing commitment to providing a modern and connected learning environment for students and staff.

This school now has high speed broadband connectivity through the Department of Education School Broadband Programme, delivered as part of the Irish National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) under the Recovery and Resilience Facility funded by the European Union through NextGenerationEU.

  • In 2023, Amazon Community Support helped the school redevelop the school library. The library was equipped with integrated shelving and cosy reading areas. In combination with a big book drive, the library was fully stocked with wonderful books thanks to community support. The library also contains a sensory corner for pupils who need sensory breaks.

  • In 2024, the school upgraded it’s heating system to keep the building at a comfortable temperature whilst also cutting down on its gas usage and emissions. This has hugely helped with our Green Schools efforts.

  • In 2025, St. Francis Senior School has commenced a major upgrade, which includes new wiring and safety systems to ensure the highest standard of safety in the school. A new 4 classroom building has commenced construction near SONAS.