Merlin College in Doughiska has grown to such unprecedented levels that it now pins its hopes on the Department of Education granting an extension to the building so that all children wishing to attend will be accommodated, especially those from the community in the east of the city.
The large number of applications, along with the building now full with more than 700 students, has meant that the numbers being permitted to attend for 2022/23 will have to be reduced significantly.
"Having such growth has meant that the school will be granted a second deputy principal next September, which will be very welcome," said principal John Cleary, "but what it now needs also to serve the community in any real and long term way, is extra learning spaces. So far already we have 150 applications and we haven’t even advertised for enrollment next year yet."
The school is a leader in many initiatives, this year alone becoming a LGBTI+ Safe and Accredited School, qualified for the BT Young Scientist finals, a Green Schools Water Ambassador Award runner-up, and a winner of a Gaelbreathach Flag (five years in a row ) for the promotion of Irish. The school also has its own podcast, held a two week careers fair online for senior students and parents, and is also involved in Creative Schools and Music Generation which is an initiative to develop in the playing of musical instruments. Sport is also a large part of Merlin College life with basketball, soccer, Gaelic football, and athletics, among others, playing a significant part in the life of Merlin’s students.
