2024 Dominican Prospectus : simplebooklet.com

t is with great pleasurethat I welcome you toDominican CollegeFortwilliam. Establishedin 1930 by the DominicanSisters from Cabra, ourschool is rich in historyand tradition and iscontinually growing and transforming to meetthe needs, aptitudes, and ambitions of all ourpupils.Our school ethos focuses on treating each pupilas an individual, celebrating their unique talentsand developing their full potential across a widerange of academic and extracurricular areas. Wepromote high aspirations, encouraging our pupilsto aim for excellence in all aspects of life.Based on our distinct Catholic and Dominicanethos, we are an inclusive community andpromote values of trust, tolerance, and mutualrespect. Our approach to education ensures theholistic development of each pupil, and preparesthem to meet the challenges, and embrace all theopportunities in a rapidly changing world.The educational experience provided byDominican College, ensures that our pupils growin confidence, enjoy learning, achieve highly,and are empowered to take their place as leadersin society.I hope you enjoy your visit to our school and geta flavour of life in Dominican College.Lynda CatneyPrincipal3IFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:46 Page 5

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Ethos and Aims of the SchoolAs a Catholic school, the Christian ethos of Dominican College permeates the lifeand work of the school and is reflected in its aims:We appreciate the fundamental dignity of each person and aim topromote respect for self, for others, the school, the wider community andthe environment.We aim to create a safe, stable and harmonious atmosphere withinwhich the values of truth, freedom, trust and responsibility are honoured.Within the context of a purposeful learning community, and recognisingthe uniqueness of each individual, we aim to offer a curriculum whichenables every student to reach her full potential: spiritually,academically, morally, socially and aesthetically.We aim to promote the school’s traditional appreciation of cultureand the arts.We endeavour to equip all our pupils with the self-confidence and skills,which will enable them to make informed and responsible choices in lifeand appreciate the value of the contribution they can make to society.We encourage parental support in promoting the ethos and aims of theschool and in building up the life of the school community.The Board of Governors believes that these general aims provide a framework which indicates what the school believes in, what itaims to do for our pupils and the values we hope they will espouse. The whole curriculum taught in the classroom and beyond, isdesigned to achieve these ends.••••••4Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:46 Page 6

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6Our HistoryEducating girls in North Belfast since 1930In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Fortwilliam area was one of the most exclusive areas of the city andhad among its residents, numerous wealthy business people involved in Belfast’s engineering, candle-making andlinen industries. One residence, Walton, was purchased in 1930 and renamed the Convent of the Holy Rosary.This became the home of the Dominican Sisters who, at the request of the Bishop of Down and Connor, ReverendDr Daniel Mageean, came to the area to provide much needed secondary education for young, female Catholics.Under the guidance of Mother Peter Flynn, the foundations of today’s school were established, initially with theopening on the 15th September 1930, of a Preparatory School and a Commercial College on the 6th October1930. The grammar school, officially recognised in 1934, continued to flourish throughout the 1930s.Post-War YearsIn the Post-War years, the implementation of the Education Act (NI) 1947, which provided free education for allchildren, resulted in an ever increasing enrolment which required further building programmes.Fairbourne, purchased in 1946, was renamed St Joseph’s and housed the Preparatory School of 150-200pupils until it closed in June 1977.St Mary’s building was opened in 1953.The Lodge building (previously Ormisdale), which was the site of a private school for the daughters of thewealthy, was purchased in 1957 from the Christian Brothers and renamed St Catherine’s.The Assembly Hall (St Mary’s Hall), was completed in 1963.St Oran’s House, on Fortwilliam Park, was acquired in 1965 and subsequently two nearby houses werepurchased in 1970 and 1991 to accommodate the ever expanding sixth form in what was then knownas St Colmcille’s.The College Chapel of the Holy Rosary was completed in 1966.••••••Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:47 Page 8

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7While many improvements had been made over the years, it was apparent that in order to meet the challenges ofthe new century and the needs of the pupils, a modern, purpose-built school was required. The Walton buildinghas been incorporated into the new school and remains an important link between the past and the present.A New Millennium, a New School and a New Chapter in the History of Dominican CollegeThe news that the Dominican community had long awaited, came on 9th February 2000when the Minister for Education granted £13.1 million funding for the newcollege building programme. On Friday 6th October 2006, the newgrammar school was officially opened by Bishop Walsh. In his address,Bishop Walsh noted the special contribution made by the Dominican Sistersto Catholic education in North Belfast. Press coverage of the opening ofDominican College in 1930, described it as “A Beautifully SituatedEstablishment with a High Purpose” - the same statement can be appliedto the Dominican College of the 21st century.Saint John Henry Newman once said, “to live is to change andto be perfect is to have changed often”. Dominican College haschanged in many respects since 1930 but the ethos and traditionsof the Dominican Sisters prevail.“the pursuit of Truth in all its forms,intellectual, spiritual and moral”Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:47 Page 9

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8Our CurriculumThe following information reflects the current curriculum offer, however this is reviewed regularly by theBoard of Governors. Detailed information on each academic subject, may be found on the school websiteat https://www.dominicancollege.org.uk/subjects .JUNIOR SCHOOL – KEY STAGE 3 (Year 8 – 10)A broad and balanced curriculum covering all areas of study of the Northern Ireland Curriculum is provided forall pupils. Pupils in Year 8, 9 and 10 study the following subjects:Art & Design Home Economics ScienceDrama ICT SpanishEnglish Mathematics Technology & DesignFrench or Irish Music CitizenshipGeography Physical Education Careers & EmployabilityHistory Religious Education Personal DevelopmentSENIOR SCHOOL – KEY STAGE 4 (Year 11 and 12)The school offers 27 subjects at GCSE level. All Year 11 and 12 pupils study 9 GCSE subjects (or 10 subjects ifFurther Mathematics is taken). Religious Education, English Language, English Literature and Mathematics areall compulsory. Learning for Life and Work is a statutory part of the curriculum, but is not taken for GCSE.Art & Design French MathematicsBiology Further Mathematics Media StudiesBusiness Studies Gaeilge MusicChemistry Geography Physical EducationDesign and Technology Government and Politics PhysicsDigital Technology Health and Social Care Religious EducationDrama History Science (Double Award)English Language Home Economics Food & Nutrition Science (Single Award)English Literature Irish SpanishFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:47 Page 10

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10Additional Educational NeedsSchool procedures are in place to identify students with additional educational needs. The school’sapproach for addressing this is embedded within existing good classroom practice and the pastoral caredimension of the school. It is the aim of the school to identify students with additional educationalneeds as early as possible, providing full access to a broad curriculum and ensuring that all studentsfeel valued and have a positive self-image.There is a Learning Support Co-Ordinator, Learning Support Teacher and Classroom Assistants in thedepartment. We are committed to Continuing Professional Development for all staff with a strong focuson Autism and Dyslexia. It is a central focus of the SEN department to develop an Autism and Dyslexicfriendly school by providing quiet spaces, adjustments to the curriculum, lunchtime clubs andfriendship groups. Where appropriate, access arrangements are provided in both internal and externalexaminations for those pupils on the register.Assessment and ReportingThere is regular assessment of pupils’ progress and attainment throughout the academic year, with allpupils sitting formal school examinations at least once a year. Each year group has an annual parentteacher meeting and parents receive a full written report once a year. In addition, Years8–10receive ashort report once a year and Years 11-14 are issued with grade reports mid-way through each term.Pupil progress is closely monitored and the pastoral team work closely with pupils and parents tosupport pupils in fulfilling their individual potential.Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 10/01/2024 17:24 Page 12

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12Extra Curricular ActivitiesWe believe that participation in extra-curricular activities is crucial to the all-round education of eachpupil. It develops self-esteem and interpersonal skills as well as forging friendships and a sense ofbelonging. We offer a varied programme of extra-curricular activities and encourage all pupils to getinvolved.MUSIC AND DRAMADominican College has a strong tradition of promoting culture and the arts and we offer a wide range ofMusic and Drama groups. In addition to participating in school liturgies, concerts and musical theatre, ourpupils have performed at a variety of venues and competitions.Activities include:Chamber Choir Concert Band Drama ClubJunior Choir Junior Guitar Group Junior OrchestraJunior Traditional Group Music Theory Musical Theatre ClubSenior Choir Senior Guitar Group Senior OrchestraSenior Traditional GroupSCHOOL PRODUCTIONSOur most recent school productions include:Mary Poppins The Greatest Show Sound of MusicJoseph and the Amazing Technicolour DreamcoatSPORTPupils can access a wide variety of physical activities including:Athletics GymnasticsBadminton NetballBasketball Recreational Netball ClubCamogie SoccerFitness Training TrampolineGaelic Football WaterpoloFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:52 Page 14

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13Art & Design ClubBar Mock TrialBelievers (Faith Development)Biology SupportBooster MathsBusiness Studies Club (BUG)Chemistry OlympiadChemistry SupportChess ClubCyberstart for Girls - CodingDebating ClubEnvironmental ClubFilm ClubFrancofest at QUBGaeilge ClubGCSE GaeilgeHispanofest at QUBHistory ClubHouse of History (Debating Society)GCSE ItalianJunior St Vincent de Paul SocietyJunior Maths ChallengeJunior LibraryICT ClubLiturgy GroupLunch ClubMagazine Editorial GroupMaths MentoringMedical SocietyPhysics ClinicPolitics in ActionPresident’s Award (GAISCE)/ Duke ofEdinburgh AwardRobotics ClubScience ClubScribbles Creative Writing ClubSenior St Vincent de Paul SocietySign Language ClubSociology ClubSoroptimist Public Speaking competitionThe St. Dominic Community Service AwardVeritas-ty Mini CompanyOTHER EXTRA-CURRICULARACTIVITIESFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:52 Page 15

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16Pastoral CareThe welfare of each pupil in Dominican College is paramount. We have a well embedded pastoralsystem where pupils are genuinely cared for, supported and encouraged to develop care and respect forall members of the school community. Relationships for learning are characterised by mutual respect,openness and trust. High expectations are set for pupils in terms of performance, discipline, uniformand attendance. The Year Head has overall responsibility for all pupils in the Year Group and is the firstpoint of contact for parents and guardians. Class Tutors take a very supportive approach towards pupilsin their care and monitor each pupil’s progress academically and pastorally. The Class Tutor is the firstpoint of contact for pupils at morning registration and all pupils meet with their tutor at the end of theschool day, at afternoon registration. Counselling services are available to pupils in school whenrequired. We can offer the support of two outside counsellors and a fully trained Teacher Counsellor.Pupils attend weekly Tutor class and also follow a structured programme of personal development. Theschool’s main pastoral policies, including the Safeguarding and Child Protection policy are available toview on the school website at https://www.dominicancollege.org.uk/pastoral-policies .ParentsWe believe that key to our success is the effective partnership between school and parents andguardians. In line with the Dominican Ethos, we recognise parents and guardians as the primaryeducators of our pupils and aim to promote a positive relationship with them to ensure the very bestoutcomes and educational experience for all of our pupils. Parents and guardians are made verywelcome in school, at concerts and productions, Masses and other social events. We hold regularcurriculum information sessions for parents as well as annual parent teacher meetings andcommunicate regularly using a variety of Online methods, including school email, ParentMail, SIMSParentApp, Microsoft Teams and SchoolCloud. We actively encourage parental engagement and haverecently hosted parent training sessions provided by outside agencies, addressing issues such as‘Talking About Tough Issues’ and Mental Health and Well-being.Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:52 Page 18

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17Leadership and MentoringOur pupils are encouraged to assume leadership roles and we provide many opportunities fordeveloping leadership skills throughout their school career. Sixth-form pupils are strong role models forthe younger pupils and act as mentors in both pastoral issues and in providing peer support withacademic work. Recently our prefects and mentors have undergone training in mentoring and peermediation. In addition, they have been involved in the Barnardo’s Leadership programme and a groupof pupils have been trained as TAMHI Mental Health Ambassadors. We are delighted that a large groupof our sixth-form pupils are currently involved in the ‘SistersIn’ Leadership Programme, where they arebeing mentored by inspirational leaders from the business world.Community and CharitiesAs a Catholic school, the Christian ethos of Dominican College permeates the life and work of the schooland pupils are encouraged to become active contributors to the local and global community. All pupils areactively involved in charity campaigns, including the Trocaire campaign during Lent, St Vincent de PaulHamper and Toy appeal at Christmas, as well as the Shoebox appeal. In recent years, our pupils haveparticipated in the Saphara project. This involves whole school fundraising for a group of sixth yearpupils who travel to India to teach children and promote the education of girls.Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:52 Page 19

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20Transition to Year 8In Dominican College, we recognise the importance and complexities of the transition from Primary toGrammar School. Our induction programme is specifically purposed to enable our Year 8 pupils toadjust to their new school surroundings, new routines and new aspects of learning. The Year 8 pastoralteam play a key role in the delivery of our induction programme and strive to ensure that the inductionprocess is a warm, supportive and motivating experience for our new Dominican pupils.Year 8 Induction Programme 2024Year 8 Pastoral CareOur commitment to the holistic development of our pupils is demonstrated through the range and varietyof specific pastoral support initiatives we offer throughout Year 8 outlined below. Our pupils enjoy manyopportunities to make new friends and form close relationships with their tutors, subject teachers andsixth form pupils as mentors and prefects. We remain adaptable and responsive to the needs of our pupilsand hope that Year 8 is a memorable year in Dominican College, laying the necessary foundations thatwill enable each pupil to fulfill their full potential over the years spent with us.Year 8 Pastoral InitiativesJJUNE 2024IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn pprreesseennttaattiioonn ffoorr ppaarreennttss aanndd ppuuppiillssffoolllloowweedd bbyy aa oonnee--ttoo--oonnee WWeellccoommee IInntteerrvviieewwwwiitthh aa mmeemmbbeerr ooff tthhee YYeeaarr 88 ppaassttoorraall tteeaamm..PPaarreennttaall rreessoouurrcceess oonn ssuuppppoorrttiinngg ssuucccceessssffuullppoosstt--pprriimmaarryy ttrraannssiittiioonn ddiissttrriibbuutteedd..SEPTEMBER 2024WWeellccoommee AAsssseemmbbllyy..YYeeaarr 88 TTrraannssiittiioonnWWoorrkksshhooppss ((RRoouuttiinneess,, RReessppoonnssiibbiilliittiieess aanndd RReellaattiioonnsshhiippss.. PPaarreenntt IInndduuccttiioonn EEvveenniinngg aanndd PPrreesseennttaattiioonn ffrroomm YYeeaarr 88 IInndduuccttiioonn TTeeaamm..AUGUST 2024YYeeaarr 88 SSuummmmeerr CCaammppTTwwoo ddaayyss ooff aaccttiivviittiieess aanndd wwoorrkksshhooppss ffooccuussiinngg oonn ffoorrmmiinngg nneeww ffrriieennddsshhiippss..YYeeaarr 88 IInndduuccttiioonn aanndd FFaammiillaarriissaattiioonn DDaayy.. TThheemmee:: ““OOuurr NNeeww SScchhooooll””OCTOBER 2024YYeeaarr 88 TThhaannkkssggiivviinngg MMaassss iinn oouurr CCoolllleeggee CChhaappeell..Year 8 MentoringExtra-Curricular Clubs and SocietiesSixth YearTAMHiMental HealthAmbassadorsYear 8 Peer Medidation andFriendship SupportYear 8 Weekly AssembliesYear 8 Internal Events Translink SafetyBus/Hallowe’en FancyDress/ Christmas/Prize-Giving CeremonyYear 8 Preventative CurriculumLearning Support,Subject Mentoring& Study Buddy SchemeChocolate and ChatSessions with HOYYear 8InductionProgramme2024Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 10/01/2024 17:29 Page 22

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Where are they now?Cliodhna McTaggartUniversity: Queen’s University Belfast Degree: MedicineA-levels: Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Digital Technology.Why did you choose the course?I wanted to follow a career that would have lifelong learning as well as beingable to make an impact on people’s lives. I enjoyed my A Levels in Science andwanted to learn more, while also doing a degree that would enable me to makeconnections with people and change their lives for the better..Amie GrehanUniversity: St Mary’s University College, Belfast Degree: ReligionA-levels: Religion, Health and Social Care and Sociology.Why did you choose the course?I have always wanted to be teacher from a young age and this course in St Mary’s had everything I could’ve wanted included. From the open days I had such a good feeling and knew it would be a good place for me.Annphina MeppillyUniversity: Queen’s University Belfast Degree: Medicinal ChemistryA-levels: Chemistry, Biology and Geography.Why did you choose the course?Medicinal chemistry is a course which combines my interests in Chemistry as well as Biology. I can directly impact people’s lives by designing anddeveloping new drugs or improving existing ones. Being a Medicinal Chemistwill allow me to contribute to advancements in healthcare which is something that really excites me.Kiran JoyUniversity: Queen’s University Belfast Degree: Pharmacy (M Pharm)A-levels: Biology, Chemistry and Health and Social Care.Why did you choose the course?Choosing to study Pharmacy has been driven by a genuine passion forhealthcare and a desire to contribute to the well-being of others. I wanted tobroaden my horizons in Science and understand how medicines improved ourhealth. Moreover, the diverse opportunities within Pharmacy such as community, hospital and research have always appealed to my aspirations of becoming an independent and versatile person.22Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 24

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Cara GillenUniversity: Queen’s University Belfast Degree: Law with PoliticsA-levels: History, Government and Politics and Sociology.Why did you choose the course?I want to have the options to explore different career paths within this area. This course is a Joint Honours, so you will graduate with a law degree and apolitics degree. The modules are also very interesting.Kyla McGowanUniversity: Queen’s University BelfastDegree: Computer Science with Professional Experience A-levels: Maths, Digital Technology, Sociology and Financial Studies.Why did you choose the course?I really like computing and I've wanted to do computer programming as a career for a longtime, this course will teach me the Professional skills needed for this career path.Martha CurranUniversity: Ulster University Degree: Accounting and LawA-levels: Chemistry, Biology and Maths.Why did you choose the course?I have a genuine passion and interest for Mathematics, it was my favourite andstrongest subject at school. I really enjoy the course and the opportunities thatcome with it.Kady HughesUniversity: Ulster University Degree: Foundation Art and DesignA-levels: Art and Design, English Literature and Moving Image Art.Why did you choose the course?Art was always my favourite subject in school and it was something I knew I wanted to do as a career. I chose this course as a way to explore a variety ofArt mediums and decide which one is best for me to specialise in for 3 years.Maeve McSherryUniversity: Queen’s University Belfast Degree: MathematicsA-levels: Chemistry, Biology and MathsWhy did you choose the course?I have a genuine passion and interest for Mathematics, it was my favourite andstrongest subject at school. I really enjoy the course and the opportunities thatcome with it.23Here are the destinations of some of Our Year 14 pupils who left in Summer 2023Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 25

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24The Siena RestaurantSiena Restaurant provides a relaxed, comfortable and friendly environment where pupils and staff can enjoyhealthy, nutritious food. The Restaurant holds a Food Hygiene Rating of 5 from Belfast City Council andoperates a cashless system of payment. Cards are issued to each pupil and these are used to make payment forany purchase in the restaurant.. Breakfast 8.10am – 8.50amMorning Break 10.50am – 11.10amSenior Lunch 12.00pm – 12.40pmJunior Lunch 12.50pm – 13.30pmDaily Timetable Uniform (Year 8 – 12)College Regulation Uniform Regulation school blazer with school crest. Regulation school tunic (knee length) with school crest.Green regulation sweater with school crest. White blouse and regulation tie orRegulation striped blouse.Black tights.Flat Black shoes.P.E. Uniform Regulation O’Neill’s Dominican College Training or Ruby top or white polo shirt. Regulation O’Neill’s Dominican College Shorts or Skort or Regulation green shorts or DominicanCollege black leggings. White sports socks. Non-marking sports trainers.Optional: Regulation O’Neill’s Dominican College HZ squad top or Regulation O’Neill’s DominicanCollege Hoodie (no other plain or branded sweatshirts, hoodies or tops are permitted).*Please note: regulation black leggings can only be purchased in school TIME09:00 - 09:1009:10 - 10:0010:00 - 10:5010:50 - 11:1011:10 - 12:0012:00 - 12:5012:50 - 13:3013:30 - 14:2014:20 - 15:1015:10 - 15:20PERIODMorning RegistrationPeriod 1Period 2BreakPeriod 3Period 4Junior LunchPeriod 5Period 6Afternoon RegistrationFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 26

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25Access To Dominican CollegeThe pupils attending Dominican College come from a very wide area. The school benefits from being on a numberof major bus routes. Buses from Randalstown and Antrim leave pupils adjacent to the school, while the AntrimRoad has a substantial bus service in both directions. The Downview bus route which originates at the City Hallleaves students at the school gates.A number of dedicated buses leave the school in the afternoons. The collection points for pupils are withinthe school grounds with the exception of the Crumlin and Glenavy buses which leave from Fortwilliam Park.The routes for these dedicated buses are:1. Glengormley (Sandyknowes)Antrim Road, Sandyknowes Roundabout, Ballyhenry Road, Beverley Shops, Carnmoney Village, Prince Charles Way, Abbey Centre.2. Glengormley (Hightown)Antrim Road, Glengormley, Hightown Road (Turning Circle), Mallusk Road, Blackrock Square.3. LigonielAntrim Road, Salisbury Avenue, Westland Road, Cliftonville Circus, Alliance Avenue, Ardoyne Road, Crumlin Road, Ligoniel (Mountainhill).4. ArdoyneAntrim Road, Salisbury Avenue, Westland Road, Cliftonville Circus, Alliance Avenue, Ardoyne Shops.5. Whiteabbey/WhiteheadAntrim Road, Floral Road, Whitewell Road, Shore Road, Whiteabbey Village, Greenisland, Carrickfergus, Whitehead.6. CrumlinFortwilliam Park, Antrim Road, Carlisle Circus, Crumlin Road, Horseshoe Bend, Nutts Corner, Crumlin, Aldergrove Crossroads, The Diamond, Ardmore Road, Largy Road.7. GlenavyFortwilliam Park, Antrim Road, Carlisle Circus, Crumlin Road, Horseshoe Bend, Nutts Corner, Glenavy, Crumlin.Service Buses:We have the facility of sharing a service bus for pupils travelling from Crumlin in the mornings. The busdrops our pupils off on the Antrim Road.We have the facility of sharing a service bus for pupils travelling from Whiteabbey in the mornings. Thebus picks up pupils at Whiteabbey Village and along the route to the school. The bus drops off the pupils inthe school grounds.We have the facility of sharing a service bus for pupils travelling from Whitewell in the mornings. The buspicks up pupils at Mill Road (Bawnmore Park), Arthur Road, Whitewell Road and Shore Road. The busdrops off the pupils on the Somerton Road.•••Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 27

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26Admissions CriteriaDOMINICAN COLLEGE 38 Fortwilliam ParkBelfast BT15 4AQTelephone No: 028 9037 0298Fax No: 028 9077 3661E-mail: info@dominican.belfast.ni.sch.uk Web-site: www.dominicancollege.org.uk Principal: Mrs L Catney BSc PGCE PQH (NI) Chairperson of the Board of Governors: Mrs Sheila CreaOPEN DAYOpen Day will be on Saturday 20th January 2024 from 9.30am – 1.00pm.Principal’s address at 9.30am and 11.00am.A prospectus and further information will also be available on our website. www.dominicancollege.org.ukTo PARENTS/GUARDIANS naming Dominican College as a preference on your child’s TransferApplication.SEAG ENTRANCE ASSESSMENT RESULTSIn assessing academic ability, Dominican College will use the BAND awarded to pupils completing the SEAG EntranceAssessment on Saturday 11th November 2023 and Saturday 25th November 2023, as specified by the school.Parents/Guardians must state the BAND achieved on the online Transfer Application and must upload a copy of the statementof results which they will receive on Saturday 27th January 2024, to the Portal on the EA website..SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCESAny parent/guardian claiming Special Circumstances must complete the SC Form in the Special Circumstances Pack, availablefrom Dominican College or on our school website. The SC Form, together with the independent documentary evidence whichcorroborates the claim for Special Circumstances, must be uploaded with the Transfer Application to the Portal on the EAwebsite, by Thursday 22nd February 2024. Please refer to the “Claiming Special Circumstances - A Guide for Parents andGuardians” document which is available from Dominican College or on our school website..SPECIAL PROVISIONFor those currently in P7 in primary schools in Northern Ireland, claims for Special Provisions should be made on the SP Form anduploaded with the Transfer Application to the Portal on the EA website, along with independent, verifiable documentary evidence,as appropriate, by Thursday 22nd February 2024. The SP Form is available from Dominican College or on our school website.After this date, claims for Special Provisions should be made directly to Dominican College and the Admissions Office of theEducation Authority, no later than 4pm on Monday 4th March 2024. Please refer to the “Claiming Special Provisions - A Guidefor Parents and Guardians” document which is available from Dominican College or on our school website. Further details on Special Circumstances and Special Provision are outlined in the Admissions Policy.ADMISSIONS POLICYRESPECTIVE FUNCTIONS OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND PRINCIPAL IN RELATION TO ADMISSIONS TOTHE SCHOOLThe Board of Governors draws up the Admissions Criteria and delegates to an Admissions Sub-Committee, which includes thePrincipal, the responsibility for applying these criteria. Any reference herein to the Board of Governors includes any Committeeor Sub-Committee appointed by the Board of Governors for the purposes of applying the Admissions Criteria set out herein.It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to ensure that they supply, on/with the Transfer Application, all the informationrequired to enable the Board of Governors to apply the admissions criteria...Voluntary Grammar SchoolGirls’ GrammarDenominationalAge Range: 11-18Admissions No: 150Enrolment No: 1050Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 28

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27NOTES ON SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCESPlease read the “Claiming Special Circumstances - A Guide for Parents and Guardians” document, available fromDominican College or on our school website, before completing an application for Special Circumstances.Details of Medical or Other ProblemsWhere it is claimed that an applicant’s performance in the SEAG Assessment has been affected by a medical or otherproblem, it is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to set out in the online Transfer Application, using the SC Form, theprecise details of the problem and append/upload independent evidence to corroborate its existence.Where the problem is a medical one of short term duration which affected the applicant only at the time of the assessment,the school will require the production of evidence that the applicant was examined by a medical practitioner in relation to theillness, at the time of the assessment.Where the problem is of a non-medical nature the Parents/Guardians should append/upload appropriate independent evidenceIf a claim for special circumstances is made in respect of matters for which access arrangements were granted, or could havebeen granted had they been made known to the assessment centre, the Board of Governors may take into account the fact thatthe child was granted access arrangements or could have been granted access arrangements for these matters.Educational EvidenceSufficient objective documentary evidence must be provided by the Parents/Guardians applying for Special Circumstances and beuploaded with the online transfer application, to enable the Board of Governors to reach a decision. The following must be provided:Results of all standardised tests in English/Literacy and Mathematics/Numeracy taken by the applicant in KeyStage 2. These should be CAT4 (Verbal and Quantitative) and/or PTE and PTM Standardised Age Scores (SAS).All test results must be accompanied by the name of the standardised test supplier and verified by the PrimarySchool Principal (ie signature, School stamp/school headed notepaper)Parents may provide any other relevant educational evidence from the Primary School.Applicants considered under Special Circumstances will be judged on evidence made available to the school and awarded a Bandaccordingly. The Board of Governors, applying the College’s Special Circumstances Protocol, will convert the standardised test resultssupplied by the applicant and provide a Band equivalent for the applicant. (Special Circumstances Protocol available on request).These Bands will be considered with those of all other applicants who received a Band and the admissions criteria applied.NB: The existence of special circumstances DOES NOT in itself lead to automatic admission to Dominican College, or anadjustment to the Band attained. Each case is considered on its own merit by the Board of Governors.It is emphasised that the onus is on the Parents/Guardiansto ensure that the above information is provided by the PrimarySchool. Failure to provide such information may result in the school being unable to consider the application for SpecialCircumstances.Parents should be aware that they have a statutory right to obtain information on their own child from their Primary School.Further information on parents’ rights can be obtained from the Information Commissioners Office (www.ico.gov.uk).NOTES ON SPECIAL PROVISIONSPlease read the “Claiming Special Circumstances - A Guide for Parents and Guardians” document, available fromDominican College or on our school website, before completing an application for Special Circumstances.Special Provision will be made by the Board of Governors for applicantswho have received more than half of their primary education outside Northern Ireland (based on the timefrom the start of Primary 1, 1st September 2017, to 28th February 2024, i.e. more than 3 years and 3months); orwishing to transfer to a post-primary school that uses the SEAG Entrance Assessment, from a school outside NorthernIreland; orwho, due to serious medical or other problems, which are supported by appropriate documentary evidence or for ademonstrably valid reason, also supported by documentary evidence, was EITHER unable to sit the SEAG EntranceAssessment OR has an estimated outcome because they only sat one of the two Entrance Assessment papers.12123Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 11/01/2024 10:58 Page 29

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28Applicants in categories 1 & 2, who wish to apply under Special Provisions do not need to take the SEAG EntranceAssessment or the supplementary assessment unless their parents/guardians so wish, in which case the SEAG EntranceAssessment Band obtained would also be considered. The Board of Governors will consider all the verifiable educational evidence supplied with the SP Form and may require anassessment of an applicant’s abilities to be carried out by a suitably qualified person or body approved by the school. (Theschool will make direct contact with parents to make arrangements for an assessment where required.) Where DominicanCollege is not your first preference school and you have sat an acceptable Special Provisions test in another school,Dominican College reserves the right to use the results from that Special Provisions test to assess the applicant’s abilities. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to provide precise reasons why the applicant did not take part in one or both of theSEAG Entrance Assessment tests and to submit appropriate documentary evidence which must be uploaded with the onlineTransfer Application.The Board of Governors will consider each application for Special Provision. Where this is granted, the Board of Governors,applying the College’s Special Provisions Protocol, will determine, on the basis of the information available, an appropriateBand equivalent for the applicant. Such applicants will then be considered with all other applicants who have received aSEAG Assessment Band and the Admissions Criteria applied. (Special Provisions Protocol available on request).ADMISSIONS CRITERIA FOR ENTRY TO YEAR 8 IN SEPTEMBER 2024Applicants resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission will be selected for admission before anychild not so resident can be selected.The Board of Governors of Dominican College will consider all claims for Special Provisions and SpecialCircumstances. Where a claim is accepted, the Board of Governors will assign a Band to the applicant. Those applicantswill then be considered along with all other applicants who have received a Band through SEAG Assessment, and theadmissions criteria applied.The Board of Governors will apply the following criteria for admissions in September 2024, in order of priority as set downbelow. If after the application of a criterion, there remain more applicants than places available, the next criterion is applied. ADMISSIONSApplicants will be ranked in order of the Band attained in the SEAG Assessment, the Band awarded under SpecialProvisions, or the Band awarded under Special Circumstances, namely 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.First preference will be given to those applicants who have attained Band 1 in the SEAG Assessment or have beenawarded Band 1 under Special Provisions or have been awarded Band 1 under Special Circumstances.If places remain after all Band 1 applicants have been admitted, priority will be given to those applicants who haveattained Band 2 in the SEAG Assessment or have been awarded Band 2 under Special Provisions or have beenawarded Band 2 under Special Circumstances.If places remain after all Band 2 applicants have been admitted, priority will be given to those applicants who haveattained Band 3 in the SEAG Assessment or have been awarded Band 3 under Special Provisions or have beenawarded Band 3 under Special Circumstances.If places remain after all Band 3 applicants have been admitted, priority will be given to those applicants who haveattained Band 4 in the SEAG Assessment or have been awarded Band 4 under Special Provisions or have beenawarded Band 4 under Special Circumstances.If places remain after all Band 4 applicants have been admitted, priority will be given to those applicants who haveattained Band 5 in the SEAG Assessment or have been awarded Band 5 under Special Provisions or have beenawarded Band 5 under Special Circumstances.If places remain after all Band 5 applicants have been admitted, applicants who have attained Band 6 in the SEAGAssessment or have been awarded Band 6 under Special Provisions or have been awarded Band 6 under SpecialCircumstances will be admitted.In the event of the number of applicants in a category under consideration (i.e. Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) exceeding thenumber of places available, priority will be given to pupils using the Sub Criteria below in the order set down below.ABCDEFFortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 30

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29SUB CRITERIAApplicants who have a sibling* (see note below) currently enrolled at Dominican College, or a sibling whohas already been selected under the current transfer procedure. (Please state the name, year group andyears attended of the sibling(s)).If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria .Applicants who had a sibling* (see note below) previously enrolled at Dominican College. (Please statethe name, year group and years attended of the sibling(s)).If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 3.3. Applicants who are the eldest girl of the family to be eligible to apply for admission to DominicanCollege. This criterion covers only children, and the Board of Governors will treat twins or other multiplesas joint eldest.Applicants who consider that this criterion applies to them (as the ‘eldest’ girl of the family), must providea verifying letter written on headed notepaper, and signed by one of the following, who is not a member ofthe child’s family:• Primary school principal• Family doctor• Parish priest/member of clergy known to the familyIf an applicant has an elder sibling who did not gain entry to Dominican College in previous years due toapplying to Dominican College and not gaining entry, she shall be considered with all eldest girls(evidence must be provided).If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 4.Applicants who are entitled to Free School Meals**(see note below)If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 5.Applicants who are a Child Looked After.*** (see note below)If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 6.Applicants who are enrolled at the following feeder primary schools (no priority will be given to anyparticular school); Abbots Cross PS, Antrim PS, Ashgrove PS, Ballyhenry PS, Ballymacrickett PS, Ballymacward PS Ballysillan PS, Ben Madigan Prep,Bunscoil an Tsleibhe Dhuibh (Belfast), Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagain, Bunscoil Phobal Feirste, Carr’s Glen PS, Cavehill PS, Christ the Redeemer PS, Cliftonville Integrated PS, Crumlin Integrated PS, Elmgrove PS (Belfast), Fairview PS, Gaelscoil Eanna, Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach Crumlin), Gaelscoil Na Bhfal, Glengormley Integrated PS, Greenisland PS, Hazelwood Integrated PS, Holy Child PS, Holy Cross Girls’ PS, Holy Family PS, Holy Rosary PS, Holy Trinity PS, John Paul II PS (Belfast), Ligoniel PS, Lowwood PS,Mercy PS, Mossgrove PS, Mount St Michael PS, Oakwood Integrated PS, Our Lady of Lourdes PS, Our Lady Queen of Peace PS, Our Lady’s Girls PS, Scoil An Droichid, Scoil Na Fuiseoige, Seaview PS, Springfield PS (Belfast), St Anne’s PS, St Bernard’s PS (Belfast),St Bernard’s PS (Glengormley), St Bride’s PS, St Clare’s PS, St Colman’s PS (Lambeg), St Comgall’s PS (Dromore), St Comgall's P.SSt James’ PS, St John the Baptist PS, St Joseph's Holland Drive, St Joseph’s PS (Antrim), St Joseph's P.S (Belfast), St Joseph’s PS (Crumlin),St Joseph’s PS(Lisburn), St Kevin’s PS, St MacNissi’s PS, St Malachy’s PS, St Mary's On The Hill P.S, St Mary’s P.S(Belfast), St Mary’s (Kircubbin), St Mary’s Star of the Sea, St Matthew’s PS, St Michael’s PS, St Nicholas’ PS, St Oliver Plunkett PS, St Patrick’s PS, St Paul’s PS, St Peter’s PS, St Teresa’s P.S, St Therese of Lisieux PS, St Vincent de Paul PS, Templepatrick PS Whiteabbey PS, Whitehead P.S.If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 7..123456Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 31

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30If after consideration of the above criteria there remain more applicants than places available, places willbe allocated by date of birth as identified on the applicant’s birth certificate, supplied along with the onlineapplication. Priority will be given to the oldest applicant.If after consideration of this criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places will beallocated on the basis of Criteria 8.If after consideration of the above criteria, there remain more applicants than places available, places willbe allocated on the basis of the initial and subsequent letters of the applicant’s surname followed by theinitial and subsequent letters of the applicant’s forename(s) (as entered on the birth certificate). This letterorder was determined by random computerised selection and verified by the Board of Governors.X F Q V O J T Z G H W B L I P C R U E N A M D Y S K*A A “sibling” is regarded as a “child of the family”, as defined by DE in circular 2016/15.** “entitled to Free School Meals” will mean applicants who are listed on the Education Authority register as entitled to Free SchoolMeals at the date on which their Parent or Guardian has submitted their post-primary Transfer Application, or any date up to andincluding 4th March 2024.*** A Child Looked After is defined by the Children (NI) Order 1995 as children ‘who are in the care of a Trust or who are providedwith accommodation by a Trust.’ (Accommodation may be in a residential home, residential school, foster placement or in a familyplacement with a relative or occasionally at home.)PLEASE NOTE:When considering which applicants should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will only takeinto account information which is detailed on or uploaded with the Transfer Application. Parents shouldtherefore ensure that all informationpertaining to their child and relevant to the school’s admission criteria isstated on the Transfer Application or uploaded with it. An example of such information includes: whether thechild has a sibling currently enrolled at Dominican College or is the eldest girl of the family eligible to transferto mainstream post- primary education. .DUTY TO VERIFYThe Board of Governors reserves the right to require such supplementary evidence as it may determine to support orverify information on any applicant’s Transfer Application. If the requested evidence is not provided to the Board ofGovernors by the deadline given, this will result in the withdrawal of an offer of a place. Similarly, if information issupplied which appears to be false or misleading in any material way, the offer of a place will be withdrawn.WAITING LIST POLICYThe names of all unsuccessful applicants will be automatically placed on the waiting list. Parents/Guardians shouldcontact the school in writing if they wish their daughter’s name to be removed from the waiting list.Should a vacancy arise after 18th May 2024, all applications, on the waiting list, for admission to Year 8 including: applicationsthat were initially refused; new applications and applications where new information has been provided will be treated equallyand the published criteria applied. This waiting list will be in place until 30th June 2025.The school will contact parents in writing if their child gains a place in the school by this method.Applications and AdmissionsYear Admissions No Total Applications Total AdmissionAll Preferences2021/22 160** 253 164*2022/23 153** 184 153*2023/24 160** 185 162**includes children who were admitted to the School with a statement of special educational needs and children admitted on appeal.** temporary variation granted for admission of an additional 10 places..VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONThere is no Capital Fee payable, but we ask parents/guardians for a voluntary contribution of £120 per annum (payable at £10per month if desired) to assist with the provision of additional facilities and equipment.Admission criteria for Years 9 to 13 is available on the school website, or by contacting the school directly.78Fortwilliam prospectus 2024:Layout 1 09/01/2024 21:59 Page 32

2024 Dominican Prospectus

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