A Brighter Future: From Stats to Opportunities

Following the recent report launch of  “A Socioeconomic Analysis of Dublin’s South West Inner City” by Dr. Barra Roantree, and some of the stark findings it revealed, we want to share more about what we as an organisation are actively doing to address the statistics through our targeted work in the South West Inner City (SWIC).

Students from Warrenmount Primary on a visit to UCD with the Solas@School Futures Programme

Education was highlighted in the report, revealing that the third-level progression rates for students in the area are less than half the national average:

“Just 36 percent of students who sat the Leaving Certificate at schools in the SWIC went on to third level eduction in 2024. This progression rate is less than half of that in Dublin (81 percent) or nationally (80 percent).”

We know that the young people in this community are not lacking ability or ambition, but rather opportunity and access. That is why our Solas@School Futures programme introduces 6th class children to the idea of attending third-level education from an early age. The programme aims to start conversations with children who may be at risk of educational inequality about what is possible for them, and also building their confidence and sense of self-worth. While we recognise that third level education might not be the right choice for all young people, we want to give them the opportunity to explore it as an option and make an informed decision about their future.

The programme begins with an interactive classroom discussion about future career pathways, third-level education and the steps each student can take to get there. The following week, students visit a university campus, where they experience a taste of college life through a campus tour, workshop, and even a hot chocolate from the café. The programme concludes with a final in-class session where students reflect on what they learned, what surprised them, and whether their perspectives on the future have changed.

A teacher from Scoil Treasa Naofa in Dublin 8 shared about the programme:

“The UCD trip gave my students a brilliant chance to see the range of options in education ahead and the benefits of campus life.”

We want to say a big thank-you to all of the campuses who have hosted us for tours and activities including: University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and Dublin City University. So far this academic year, our Solas@School team has facilitated the Futures Programme across 8 primary schools in the community, supporting 187 students to see what possibilities are available to them and encouraging them to dream big, believe in themselves, and feel confident about their futures.