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 Overview00:50 Annual Review of the Primary School Year02:49 January: Snow Days and New Government07:09 February: Controversies and Challenges11:08 March: The Cluster Games and Special Education16:37 April: Teacher Burnout and Financial Crisis22:52 May: Religion in Schools Debate26:45 June: End of School Year and ICT Grant27:52 July: Teacher Shortages and National Convention31:24 August: Secretary and Caretaker Strikes34:44 September: Strike Lessons and Hot Meal Scheme37:34 October: School Census and Budget39:59 November: IPPN Conference and New Minister41:44 December: Reflections and Looking Forward This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit simonmlewis.substack.com/subscribe

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related