October presented Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta with a varied and busy programme of work as we continue our work on behalf of the sector throughout the North. There was a particular focus on educational support, the development of new provision, the promotion of Irish-medium education and co-operation with our partners in the sector. We continued our advocacy work to promote the needs of the sector in the context of the ongoing changes in education.
Education Team
The Education Team had a busy month with a number of important events taking place during the period.
On 15 October, a the Irish-medium Principals' Forum was held, where assessment and other issues related to the development of the sector were discussed. As part of the day, researchers from Stranmillis University College organised focus groups with principals to explore the gaps in the sector, particularly in the context of the lack of centralised management and employment structures.
The same day saw the launch of new research on assessment, which will serve as a valuable advocacy tool and source of evidence as we engage with the Department of Education, the Education Authority and other stakeholders in the future.
Staff also attended a careers fair in Omagh, where they spoke to young people about the career opportunities available in the Irish-medium education sector. This was part of our ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the various roles that are essential to building a strong, sustainable sector in the future.
Engagements with the Department of Education on the TransformED reform agenda continued. Representatives from the EA’s SEND Transformation initiative visited Scoil an Droichid to discuss the needs of Irish-medium pupils and to ensure that Irish-medium education is included in the planning of future services.
Development Team
The Development Team continued its work during the month, supporting new projects and the development of existing supply.
The team had a positive meeting with the Naíscoil an Bhearnais committee on October 19 to agree an action plan and plan the next steps for the project.
As part of our awareness campaign ahead of the school application period in the new year, work has begun with local media organisations to raise the profile of Irish-medium education and the opportunities available to families.
Contact with communities looking to develop new provision continued.
Significant progress has been made in the work of the Tyrone and Fermanagh Working Group on the development of free-standing secondary provision. Aspen Consultancy has been appointed as a project consultant to assist in the progression of the work, and a steering group is being established to oversee the next steps.
There was also positive progress in relation to Gaelscoil an Phiarsaigh in Derry’s Waterside. The school's Development Proposal will now be considered by the Education Authority's Strategy and Planning Committee, and it is hoped that the project will progress to the next stage in the coming months.
In Gaelscoil na mBeann, work continued to develop a new suitable site for the school. Three potential sites were examined in conjunction with the school, the Department of Education and other relevant parties.
In the meantime, information packs have been delivered as part of the ongoing work to support the development and promotion of Irish-medium education.
Advocacy and Policy
Staff attended meetings of the Irish-medium Education Strategy working group and steering group during the month, in conjunction with the Department of Education and other stakeholders. Work begun on ‘Pillar’ 4; that is, family and community support, including youth matters.
Important Department of Education consultations are currently open, relating to pre-school education and school admissions; further information is available here: Consultations | Department of Education
Thanks
The Council staff were delighted to welcome a pupil from Ardscoil Mhaolmhaodhóg who was with us on work experience during the month. She gained insight into various areas of the organisation's work and made a significant contribution to the day-to-day work during her time with us. We thank her for her work and wish her every success in the future.
Looking ahead
As we approach the end of the year, Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta will continue to work with schools and communities across the North. After Christmas, the application processes for September 2027 will begin and we will be supporting families every step of the way.