Every summer, Dublin City University (DCU) Library opens its doors to secondary school students preparing for the leaving certificate exam, an important qualification for entry into higher education in Ireland and similar to A levels in the UK. By offering access to study spaces, the scheme demystifies university life, breaking down walls for students from all backgrounds to consider university as a viable walkway to the future.
The scheme initially focused on students from under-resourced schools within the local community in the heart of Dublin’s Northside, aligning with the library’s longstanding commitment to educational outreach. Since its launch in 2015, it has expanded significantly and now serves as a model for other Irish universities. The Leaving Certificate Scheme at DCU supports more than 1,600 students, preparing for their leaving certificate exams. The group ranges from 17 to 18 years of age.
The scheme is active between May and June, offering a structured environment for students to focus on their revision. The students who participate in the scheme have access to all library spaces and study rooms, which are available for group work and independent study. These facilities provide an ideal setting for collaborative learning and exam preparation.
Introducing masterclasses
The number of students registering for the scheme has risen by 213 per cent in recent years. In 2024, we welcomed 1,676 online applications through the library website. This surge in popularity can be attributed to three factors.
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First, the library introduced masterclasses in 2022 that provide exam tips and guidance on structuring answers for leaving certificate English and Irish. These sessions, led by the DCU writer-in-residence and local schoolteachers, were well attended and became so popular that a waiting list was introduced.
Second, the library’s outreach and engagement team has made significant efforts to promote the scheme online and connect directly with more than 100 schools. They use the library’s website and social-media channels to share updates and key information, such as the start and end dates of the scheme, how to apply and the facilities that are available to them in the library. Additionally, they reach out to local schools directly to encourage applications in the months leading up to the launch in May.
Third, the scheme has benefited significantly from word of mouth, as satisfied students and their families share their positive experiences with their peers. This organic promotion has helped generate interest and trust in the scheme.
Mastery of the scheme
Planning for the scheme involves collaboration with DCU units, such as communications and marketing, DCU Access and the student recruitment office, as well as support from the local community. The process begins in January. To reach students and parents effectively, emails and promotional posters are distributed to local schools. A dedicated web page is created, masterclass teachers are confirmed and venues are reserved.
The leaving certificate masterclasses take place in early May, and the study scheme runs from May to June at two of our sites, Cregan and O’Reilly libraries. As the launch approaches, both the masterclasses and the overall scheme are actively promoted on social media and external websites to maximise visibility.
Library staff play a crucial role in ensuring students feel welcomed and supported during their visits. They provide amenities, such as sweets, earplugs and in-house “good luck” posters to create a positive atmosphere. Staff members are also on hand to offer guidance and support. These thoughtful measures contribute to an inviting experience for all participants.
What students tell us about the scheme in their own words
Collecting quantitative statistics and assessing the qualitative impact on user experience is an important part of maintaining the scheme. So, we have introduced an anonymous student exit questionnaire.
The “quiet” and “peaceful environment” were the aspects students praised most frequently. They mentioned that the silence allowed them to focus better than they could at home.
Spaciousness was another standout benefit. Students valued the large desks and ample room, which made it easier to spread out study materials. The overall size of the library was often mentioned, with one student likening our space to an “enchanting labyrinth”.
Students also appreciated the change of scenery from home. Many mentioned that the library provided a focused environment. For some, simply being around others who were also studying was helpful, as one student remarked: “Being around others studying helped motivate me.” Others valued the opportunity to study alongside friends.
Looking to the future
The Leaving Certificate Scheme is just one component of a broader outreach network that encompasses the immensely popular Culture Night and the longstanding creative writing competition. Together, these initiatives strengthen our connection with the local community and promote the offerings of DCU Library.
Given the increasing demand for the scheme, we need to find the best ways to accommodate this influx of additional users and their specific needs within our spaces. We must consider their requirements, which may differ from those of university students, and collaborate to create a scheme that effectively serves us all. This may involve exploring extended opening hours and granting access to our newest site, Woodlock Hall Library.
We continue to empower future generations to pursue their dreams of higher education, transforming walls into walkways of opportunity.
Aoife Murphy is a public services operations coordinator, Nuala Murray is a help desk supervisor at Cregan Library, and Angela Laddaga is a help desk supervisor at O’Reilly Library. All three are senior library assistants in public services and outreach at DCU Library at Dublin City University.
Dublin City University was highly commended in the Outstanding Library Team of the Year category in the 2024 THE Awards. A full list of nominees can be found here.
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