Many primary schools across Ireland are currently eligible to apply for funding through the RISE Community Fund, which supports technology projects in national schools. With the application deadline approaching, schools may be considering how best to use this funding to enhance digital learning for their pupils.
One option worth exploring is the introduction or expansion of coding education within the school.
What is the RISE Community Fund?
The RISE Community Fund provides cash grants to national primary schools in all 26 counties to support projects that use technology to enhance teaching, learning, and school infrastructure.
According to the fund guidelines, supported projects may include:
- Improving digital learning experiences
- Enhancing classroom technology
- Supporting technology that benefits pupils and teachers
- Using technology to strengthen school operations and connectivity
The fund is designed to help schools make meaningful improvements through technology, particularly where budgets may otherwise be limited.
Can the RISE Community Fund Be Used for Coding?
Coding and computational thinking are widely recognised as key digital skills for pupils. Structured coding programmes support:
- Problem-solving and logical thinking
- Creativity and design skills
- Confidence with technology
- Alignment with the Digital Learning Framework for Primary Schools
As coding involves the purposeful use of technology to support learning, it fits naturally within the scope of digital learning initiatives supported by the RISE Community Fund.
Schools may choose to use funding to support:
- A structured coding programme for pupils
- Access to age-appropriate coding platforms
- Teacher support or training linked to digital learning
- Resources that allow coding to be delivered consistently across classes
Introducing Coding with The Code Lab
The Code Lab works with primary schools to deliver high-quality, curriculum-aligned coding programmes that are accessible to pupils of all abilities and backgrounds.
Our Schools Coding Programme:
- Is designed specifically for Irish primary schools
- Requires no prior coding experience from teachers
- Uses clear, child-friendly lessons that build skills step by step
- Supports both pupils and teachers in developing confidence with technology
- Can be delivered as a short programme or over a longer term
Schools that receive funding through the RISE Community Fund can use it to support the introduction of a coding programme that enhances digital learning in a practical and engaging way.
Support with Planning and Implementation
Applying for funding can feel daunting, particularly when schools are unsure how best to structure a technology project. The Code Lab can support schools by:
- Advising on how coding fits within digital learning goals
- Helping schools plan a realistic and impactful coding initiative
- Delivering the programme once funding is secured
Our aim is to make coding easy to introduce, meaningful for pupils, and sustainable for schools.
Find Out More
If your school is considering applying for the RISE Community Fund and would like to explore how coding could form part of your technology project, you can:
- Learn more about our Schools Coding Programme at TheCodeLab.ie
- Get in touch to discuss what might work best for your school
For full details on the RISE Community Fund and application criteria, visit the official RISE Global Foundation website. https://riseglobalfoundation.com/
The Code Lab has experience supporting schools of all sizes and contexts in introducing high-quality coding education as part of their digital learning journey.
Images from The Code Lab Schools Coding Programme (used with permission)
