In this episode I offer a comprehensive review of Irish primary education for the year 2025. I cover various educational policies, initiatives, and challenges, spanning teacher shortages, special education crises, the hot meal scheme, religious influences in schools, and the controversial snow days. I discuss new policies introduced by the government, the effectiveness of the Department of Education, and the impact of external events like the conflict in Gaza on school environments. Despite the challenges, I’m, as always, cautiously optimistic for 2026!
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:50 Annual Review of the Primary School Year
02:49 January: Snow Days and New Government
07:09 February: Controversies and Challenges
11:08 March: The Cluster Games and Special Education
16:37 April: Teacher Burnout and Financial Crisis
22:52 May: Religion in Schools Debate
26:45 June: End of School Year and ICT Grant
27:52 July: Teacher Shortages and National Convention
31:24 August: Secretary and Caretaker Strikes
34:44 September: Strike Lessons and Hot Meal Scheme
37:34 October: School Census and Budget
39:59 November: IPPN Conference and New Minister
41:44 December: Reflections and Looking Forward
