From the early years to 6th Class, pupils are prepared carefully for the move to secondary school. We focus on academic readiness, organisation and confidence – so pupils arrive at their next school on the front foot.
Secondary School Preparation
Ready for secondary school in every sense
Where our pupils go next
Our pupils move on to some of Ireland’s most respected secondary schools – including schools that are genuinely competitive to get into. What makes the difference is not just the academic preparation. It is that by age 12, families have a much clearer picture of who their child is, what kind of learner they are, and where they will genuinely thrive – and that makes for a better secondary school decision.
The logos below show a selection of the schools our pupils have recently gone on to. We also hold feeder school agreements with a number of local schools, including SEK International and St Joseph of Cluny – reflecting the range and quality of destinations our leavers reach.
6th Class Journey
Learn a little more about some of the highlights our 6th Class pupils have to look forward to during their final year in primary school. A year shaped by leadership, teamwork, performance and shared experiences.
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Leadership Allocation
Pupils take on leadership roles across the school, supporting younger classes and daily routines. These roles build confidence, responsibility and a strong sense of contribution.
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Fundraising Movie Week
A pupil-led initiative where classes organise film screenings to raise funds for chosen causes. It develops teamwork, creativity and ownership of a shared goal.
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Sustainability Exhibitions
Pupils explore environmental topics and present their findings to parents and peers. The project builds research skills and encourages responsibility for the world around them.
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Christmas Concert – Choir Leaders
6th Class pupils lead the Christmas Concert, wearing choir robes for a candlelit procession into the church. They take centre stage as the main choir, setting the tone for a special school tradition.
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Personal Development Day
A dedicated day focused on wellbeing, reflection and practical life skills. Pupils take part in workshops that support confidence and preparation for secondary school.
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The School Musical
A full-scale stage production with 6th Class pupils in leading roles over two nights. One of the highlights of the Castle Park year.
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Collings Projects
Independent projects where pupils explore a topic of interest in depth. They build research skills, creativity and pride in their final presentation.
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Sports Programme & Tournaments
Pupils represent the school in a range of competitions throughout the year. These events develop teamwork, resilience and pride in participation.
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Wellbeing Learning Workshops
Workshops focused on wellbeing and mental health. Sessions support emotional awareness and encourage open, age-appropriate discussion.
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Summer Concert
A celebration of music and performance at the end of the school year. Pupils showcase their talents in front of family and friends.
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Ski Trip / Science Blast (Week Without Walls)
Pupils take part in a Week Without Walls experience, with the option of an international ski trip or a school-based programme. Both pathways offer rich, active learning beyond the classroom.
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Graduation Ceremony
The final milestone of the 6th Class journey. A graduation ceremony with family marking the transition to secondary school.
Our approach and what secondary schools notice
This comparison shows how the experiences and expectations in 6th Class translate into clear readiness for secondary school. It highlights the day-to-day skills, confidence and independence pupils develop, and how these are often recognised when they move on.
Alumni testimonials
Hear from some of our recent past pupils and how their time at Castle Park helped prepare them for the move to secondary school.
Alannah – St Columba’s College
Alannah reflects on the friendships, confidence and life skills she developed during her time at Castle Park, including public speaking and feeling prepared for a new school environment.
Pierce – Rathdown School
Pierce shares his experience of school life, from sport and friendships to the wide range of opportunities available, and the lasting memories made along the way.
Secondary School Transition
Clear guidance, every step of the way
The move to secondary school is a big moment – and Castle Park doesn’t leave families to figure it out on their own. Clear guidance is in place for both pupils and parents at each stage. Support includes:
- Dedicated secondary school information mornings
- Open discussions about best-fit schools for each child
- Insights from former pupils and families
- Passport to Secondary events, where schools visit to meet parents
- A practical digital guide to support decision-making and next steps
The Passport to Secondary is a practical guide covering timelines, school options, assessment preparation and what to expect in the first term of secondary school.