For schools
Bringing the Kingdom of God to the classroom
A classical Catholic curriculum for independent Irish schools, homeschooling co-ops and hybrid schools.
Schools Programme
Why open a Catholic classical school?
"The absence of the Catholic school would be a great loss for civilisation and for the natural and supernatural destiny of man." The Sacred Congregation for Catholic Education
Opening a Catholic classical school in your area has a four-fold purpose:
- It provides an authentic Catholic education to the next generation.
- Education is an authentic, effective tool for the New Evangelization of Ireland. It has the potential to bring entire families back to God and to help parents in the faith formation of their children.
- It helps build Catholic communities where God and charity are put first. These communities will attract more people to God's love.
- It creates Catholic employment for Catholic teachers who may otherwise be tempted to leave the education sector.
Affiliation
Why should my school affiliate with Mater Dei Education?
A curriculum built in Ireland
Developed by Catholic Irish teachers and lecturers following a classical approach to education, for independent primary Irish schools, homeschooling co-ops and hybrid schools taking part in the renewal of Irish Catholic classical education. It promotes the learning of the Irish language, Irish history, and Irish culture.
Assurance and recognition
The Mater Dei Education name provides a level of assurance and recognition to your independent school — long-term sustainability, consistency of education, and a contribution to the reputation of the school. Students sit internationally recognised exams: IGCSE, DELF, and TEG.
Ready-to-use materials
Teachers have in hand a coherent, structured tool and complete ready-to-use materials — an appreciable saving of time, avoiding dispersal across numerous textbooks and ensuring logic and homogeneity in the progression between the different classes.
Independent learners
The Mater Dei lesson plans encourage children to work independently — a real help for teachers who teach multiple class levels.
A dedicated consultant
Teachers can reach out to their Mater Dei Education consultant for counsel and advice. The consultant will help you set up your school and implement the classical pedagogy.
A future school network
Affiliated schools can form a future Irish Catholic school network — collaborating to share best practices, train new teachers, facilitate student visits and exchanges, and provide expertise in marketing, budgeting, and fundraising.
Teacher training
Affiliated schools can have their teachers trained in the classical methodology.
Website template
Affiliated schools can avail of our Mater Dei Education website template.
Registered trademarks
"Mater Dei Education" and the Mater Dei Education logo are registered trademarks of Mater Dei Academy. The trademarks may be licensed to Mater Dei Education schools that meet established criteria.
How does this work?
Our members agree to four commitments
To adhere to the Magisterium of the Catholic faith.
To attend Mass as a school community at least once a week.
To implement the Mater Dei Education curriculum, and uphold our rigorous standards.
To have the school be affordable for families of limited financial means.
Thinking of starting a school in your area?
Talk to us about affiliating your independent school, co-op or hybrid school with Mater Dei Education.