Send us a textJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Gerard McHugh, the former Director of Dublin West Education Support Centre. A man who dedicated his career to transforming the landscape of education in Ireland. Tune in as Gerard shares valuable insights from the evolution of his leadership, navigating the complexities of educational reform and pioneering European partnerships. Gerard's tenure at the Dublin West Education Support Centre stands out as a period of significant ch...
Send us a textThis week our host Ultan chats with Lyn Stone, 'the Taylor Swift of Literacy'. Join us as literacy expert Lyn unlocks the secrets to effective language education. Learn how Lyn's passion for linguistics and special education sparked innovative methods in spelling and grammar, turning her workshops into must-attend events for educators. Discover what makes her approach to language education stand out as she shares insights on overcoming common misconceptions and the value of unde...
Send us a textJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Jacinta Kitt, a distinguished educator who dedicated her career to fostering positive behaviours and relationships in schools.In her conversation with our host, Ultan, Jacinta explores the power of positive relationships and their monumental impact on educational success. She emphasises the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence and creating an environment in schools where both students and staff can thrive. This episode offers ...
Send us a textJoin us for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Helena Trench, the inspiring Principal of Powerstown Educate Together National School in Dublin 15. Helena's journey to school leadership has been fuelled by a passion for inclusive education and a love for working with children. In this episode, Helena shares stories of building a vibrant school community from the ground up, celebrating the unique blend of traditions and opportunities at newer schools like Powerstown E...
Send us a textWelcome to another Season of Teachers Themselves! Season 3 opens with a wonderfully open conversation between our host Ultan Mac Mathúna and Dr. Séamus Conboy, the Director of Schools at Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI). Séamus takes us through his journey to becoming a passionate educator and advocate for multidenominational schools in Ireland, from his upbringing in Knock, County Mayo, where he honed his interpersonal skills, to his progression into leadership...
Send us a textÁine Hyland is a name synonymous with educational reform in Ireland and we are honoured to have had her as a guest on the Teachers Themselves podcast. Wrapping up Season 2, the conversation between Áine and our host, Ultan Mac Mathúna, was so captivating that we have made it available in two parts. This episode is Part 2 of their conversation so before you listen, go back and enjoy Part 1. Join us as Áine recounts her vibrant tapestry of experiences, weaving through th...
Send us a textÁine Hyland is a name synonymous with educational reform in Ireland and we are honoured to have had her as a guest on the Teachers Themselves podcast. Wrapping up Season 2, the conversation between Áine and our host, Ultan Mac Mathúna, was so captivating that we have made it available in two parts. Join us as Áine recounts her vibrant tapestry of experiences, weaving through the milestones of a storied career that has shaped Irish education. Áine's journey from the gra...
Send us a textDermot Looney's story is not just one of teaching but of someone who is deeply connected to local history and community. Our conversation with Dermot delves into his career as a dedicated primary school teacher in Tallaght, his teaching philosophy and the indelible impact of his environment on personal growth. This episode is an example of the outstanding educators that we have in Ireland. Dedicated people such as Dermot, whose interests extend far beyond the classroom wall...
Send us a textThis episode of Teachers Themselves, features Teaching Principal, Cormac O’Farrell. Cormac has a dedication to teaching and education, only matched by his dedication to the Arts and extra-curricular activities. This conversation isn't just about traditional teaching; it's an exploration into school leadership and the alchemy of the arts in shaping an educator's prowess. As he recounts the seamless blend of his passions - from drama to sports - you're invited into a world wh...
Send us a textThis episode recounts the extraordinary journey of Áine Lynch. She opens up about her passionate pursuit of strengthening partnerships between schools and parents, drawing from her own experience as an early school leaver who later became the CEO of the National Parents' Council. Áine's story is a testament to the non-linear paths that can lead to profound influence and change.Throughout our conversation, we uncover the layers of complexity within the parent-teacher dynamic, emp...
Send us a textMeet Máirín Ní Chéileachair, a passionate educator, influenced by family legacy and a community rich in scholastic virtues. In this inspiring conversation, she grants us an intimate look into the stepping stones that propelled her from a classroom teacher to an advocate within the INTO and NIPT, all while holding fast to her intrinsic zeal for education that flourished beyond the traditional learning environment.Navigating the labyrinth of education policy can be as challenging ...
Send us a textIntroducing Finbarr Hurley, a visionary in the realm of primary education. Join us as he shares his story of growth from the fields of West Cork to the bustling classrooms of Qatar. Every educator has a tale, but not every tale weaves through the multicultural tapestry of European schools and leads to the construction of a diverse educational community. Finbarr's narrative is one of passion and perseverance.Finbarr Hurley's career is a testament to the adaptability and innovatio...
Send us a textAre you ready to transform your teaching skills and stay ahead in the ever-evolving education landscape? This bite-size bonus episode is an extract from Episode 006 'The Transformative Power of Teaching: John Williams on Professional Growth'. Listen in to expert John Williams on the importance of continuous professional development (CPD) for educators. John's top three recommendations for growth in this field focus on prioritising well-being, honing leadership qualities, and emb...
Send us a textWhat if the key to unlocking a student's potential lies in the hands of their teacher? A teacher whose goal was always just "to make a difference". Join our host, Ultan Mac Mathúna, as he chats with John Williams, an experienced educator, former principal, and chairperson of the Dublin West Education Support Centre management committee. We discuss the vital role teachers’ play in the classroom and John's own professional growth. Embark on a journey with John as we expl...
Send us a textAre you ready to level up your skills as a Special Needs Assistant? Look no further as we bring you an excerpt from the enlightening conversation with Magdalena Landziak, a seasoned educator deeply passionate about additional needs education. In this bite-size, bonus episode, Magdalena provides her top 3 CPD tips for SNAs planning for the academic year ahead and shares her invaluable three-pronged approach towards continuous professional development for SNAs. She emphasizes the ...
Send us a textDo you want to be the change that you want to see in the world? Meet Magdalena Landziak, a special needs assistant (SNA) who's doing just that. Join our host, Ultan Mac Mathúna, as he chats with Magdalena, an experienced SNA in a Primary school in Co. Limerick. From her beginnings as a teacher in Poland to creating a national magazine for SNAs (AMYGDALA) in Ireland, Magdalena's story is a narrative of determination, innovation, and deep understanding of the distinct challen...
Send us a textMary passionately shares her wisdom on Continuing Professional Development (CPD) which is a treasure trove for every educator striving for growth. Tune in to this bite-size bonus episode for her insights and recommendations. Mary’s CPD recommendations for the year ahead are; to attend her CPD with DWEC, to consider the CPD available through the NCSE and for CPD for your own Wellbeing. You can book her CPD recommendations here:Mary McKenna’s CPD with DWEC...
Send us a textAre you interested in Autism Education and seeking guidance on how to approach the subject with sensitivity, respect, and accurate terminology? Allow us to introduce you to Mary McKenna, a seasoned primary teacher and CPD facilitator, who pioneered the first Autism early intervention class in Ireland. In this episode of ‘Teachers Themselves’, Mary provides a thoughtful examination of the labels often used to describe neurodivergent individuals and classrooms, challenging us...
Send us a textIn this bite-size bonus episode, Shannon provides her top 3 CPD tips for educators planning for the academic year ahead. Shannon’s CPD recommendations for the year ahead, are for AI, Classroom Management and Teaching Methodologies. Luckily for you, we have you covered! You can book CPD this Autumn with dwec.ie We are delighted that Shannon will be facilitating CPD for DWEC again this Autumn. Book your place;ChatGPT for Teachers - A Beginners GuideChatGPT for Maths Teachers ...
Send us a textAre you looking for ways to innovate your teaching? Join Ultan Mac Mathúna, as he sits down with the trailblazer in STEM education, Shannon Ahern, a teacher in St Declan's College in Cabra, Dublin, who is transforming the world of Maths and Science with her innovative teaching methods. Discover how Shannon uses an AI tool, ChatGPT, to create personalised learning experiences and pique student curiosity, making the subject not just educational but also enjoyable. Tune in to ...