Dear Parents/Guardians of 4th, 5th and 6th class students,
We've designed a new leaflet with tips and advice from other parents to help you with the transition to post-primary school. It complements the information provided by the school and focuses on the parents’ point of view.
Last year we asked parents of 6th class students what we could do to help with the transition. Many said that Open Evenings are a great way for you and your child to find out more about our local secondary schools.
2026 Open Evenings begin this week:
- St Dominic's College Cabra (girls only) Thursday 11th September
- St Declan's College, Cabra (boys only) Thursday 18th September
We contacted Clonturk Community College and they said they don't have any plans to host an Open Evening.
Based on feedback, we encourage parents of 4th and 5th class students to try to attend this year if possible.
Here are some other tips:
- Apply to more than one school
- Visit the school with your child - ask lots of questions!
- Talk to your child about what they want
- Think about extra curricular activities on offer
- Find out what subjects they offer for Junior and Leaving Certificate
- Be ready to submit your applications as soon as the schools start accepting them.
- Try not to feel too anxious if your child doesn't get an offer from the school you both like.
- Deadlines are usually at the start of October.
Please also see attached Secondary school information booklet (composed by our Parents' Association Committee) which contains helpful information for parents/guardians.
Best Wishes,
St Peter's Parents Association
(Secondary School Subgroup)
