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Welcome to Wicklow Democratic School

Ireland’s first democratic school for self-directed education

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More than
just a school

We strive to be a caring and empowering community where democracy, self-directed learning and a dedicated staff team support students to pave their own chosen paths in life.

Our Community

Lighting a fire

As educators, our job is not to tell young people what to think, but to help them learn how to think for themselves and provide an environment that gives them the best chance to find the kindling that will ignite their passions.

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Empowering students

Through a balance of challenging and cherishing, students are supported to follow their curiosity and take control of their own learning journey.

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About Wicklow Democratic School

Wicklow Democratic School is Ireland’s first democratic school for self-directed learning. Students at our school are free to determine their own learning path and structure their days in whatever way works for them, with the freedom to play and to fully immerse themselves in their passions and interests. We recognise the importance of mental and emotional well-being, and our community has built a culture of respect and restorative conflict resolution. Our students develop intrinsic motivation and learn to live their own independent lives based on their individual goals and aspirations.

How to Apply for Enrolment

Wicklow Democratic
School Campus

Wicklow Democratic School is located in
Ballybeg, Rathnew, Co Wicklow, A67 PW18.

Help us build the future of education!

Staff

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Testimonials

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Crash Course

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Make a Donation

Help support educational activities throughout the year at Wicklow Democratic School by making a donation

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Parent Testimonials

“Since the moment my daughter started in WDS, she has gone through a metamorphosis. It has been the true making of her. She is learning rapidly, devouring information, very enthusiastic about school and planning her bright and exciting future. This would not have happened if she’d stayed in mainstream school.”

Parent Testimonials

“In today’s world where there are dangers to our children through bullying, peer pressure and exam pressure, democratic school offers an alternative. Our daughter is no angel, but she has so many strong qualities that if nurtured properly and she has the right learning experiences, who’s to say that she won’t change the world for the better. At Wicklow Democratic School, she will have the opportunity to do that.”

Parent Testimonials

“Wicklow Democratic has given our son the freedom to dive deeply and uninterruptedly into doing the things he loves to do. He can be as physically active as he needs to be, as social as he needs to be, whatever it is he needs to be, learning each step of the way to know what that is and trust it. We all know that’s how the school functions, but the actual reality of having that freedom and experience to grow into one’s thoughts, interests, beliefs is an unmeasurable, ultimate learning for being and for life.”

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