Exploring Newtown School: A Quaker-Ethos Secondary School in Waterford, Ireland
Inside a Quaker-ethos secondary school in Ireland: ‘You have to get out of the boat if you want to walk on water’
Image: The Irish Times
Newtown School in Waterford, Ireland, embraces a Quaker ethos, promoting values like simplicity and community. Founded in 1798, the school now hosts 329 day students and 86 boarders, with a focus on independent learning and a relaxed atmosphere. The principal, Keith Lemon, emphasizes the importance of courage and faith in education.
- 01Newtown School, founded in 1798, operates under Quaker principles, emphasizing simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality.
- 02Currently, the school has 329 day students and 86 boarders, with over half of the boarders coming from abroad, particularly from Italy, Spain, and Germany.
- 03The school has a relaxed uniform policy and encourages independent learning, allowing students to express themselves comfortably.
- 04Newtown School has introduced classes for autistic students, with plans for expansion in the coming years.
- 05Mobile phone use is prohibited during school hours, promoting focus and engagement among students.
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Newtown School, located in Waterford, Ireland, is a secondary school founded in 1798 that embodies Quaker values such as simplicity, peace, and community. The school operates with a relaxed atmosphere, emphasizing independent learning over strict rules. Principal Keith Lemon, who has led the school since 2009, highlights the importance of courage and faith in education, referencing a Bible passage about Jesus walking on water during morning assemblies. Currently, the school has 329 day students and 86 boarders, with a significant portion of the boarders coming from international backgrounds, particularly after Brexit. The school has a relaxed uniform policy and prohibits mobile phone use during school hours to foster a focused learning environment. Additionally, Newtown School has recently opened classes for autistic students, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity. The campus features various facilities, including a music center, library, and sports pitches, creating a supportive environment for both local and international students.
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Newtown School's approach to education and its Quaker ethos positively influence the local community by promoting values of peace and community engagement.
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