- Programme has helped over 4,500 students from DEIS secondary schools in Dublin and Cork progress to third level, higher education, and apprenticeships.
- Aspire2 added Deansrath Community College and Bishopstown Community College as new partner schools, bringing total number to twelve.
Arcadis, the global leader in sustainable design and consultancy for natural and built assets, celebrated the 10th anniversary of Aspire2. Aspire2 is an Irish nonprofit oraganisation founded by DPS and now supported by Arcadis, that helps youth from DEIS secondary schools in Dublin and Cork achieve strong Leaving Certificate results and advance to higher education or apprenticeships.
Founded in 2015, Aspire2 has supported over 4,500 students from ten schools in Dublin and Cork, and provides programme participants with student mentoring sessions, youth advisory panels, and work experience. Partner schools have seen a 52% increase in progression rates while participating in the programme, and Aspire2 has formed partnerships with leading Irish universities, including University College Dublin, University College Cork, and Maynooth University.
With the addition of Deansrath Community College (Clondalkin) and Bishopstown Community College (Cork), Aspire2’s network now includes twelve partner schools, expanding its reach to even more students and families. Aspire2 also maintains a robust alumni network, designed to foster mentorships between graduated participants and current students.
On January 24th, a formal anniversary celebration was held – organised by Aspire2 alumni – featuring mentors, parents, educators, partners and supporters — a powerful reflection of the strong community that has grown around the programme over the past decade. The event recognised the crucial role of DEIS schools, university Access teams, and Aspire2 mentors, whose guidance and encouragement continue to open doors for students.
Michelle O Kelly, Principal of Mercy Secondary Inchicore said: “Aspire2 has been a game changer in our school in terms of addressing educational disadvantage. The programme is designed completely around the needs of the students and most importantly in consultation with the students to ensure that their voice is central to the decision-making process. Aspire2 is unique & we are delighted to be collaborating with Arcadis.”
Janice McGarry, Project Manager for Aspire2 said: “As we celebrate ten years of Aspire2, we are reminded of the incredible journeys our students have taken and the positive impact the programme has had on our community. Welcoming Deansrath and Bishopstown Community Colleges into our network marks an exciting new chapter, enabling us to support even more young people in achieving their dreams.”
