KCETB Hosts Regional Consultation as Part of National Conversation on the Future of Education
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) recently hosted a regional consultation event at Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training as part of the Department of Education and Youth’s National Conversation on Education, a key step in shaping the Convention on Education in 2026.
The Convention on Education represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for children, young people, parents, educators, and wider society to help shape Ireland’s education system for decades to come. To inform the agenda for this landmark convention, the Department is engaging with stakeholders across the country through a National Conversation.
This nationwide initiative invites everyone with an interest in education to share their views on its future. It includes a national survey, school community engagements, and a series of regional consultations. The recently concluded survey saw an exceptional level of public engagement, with almost 42,000 responses submitted.
The KCETB regional event brought together participants from across the community to explore the key themes emerging from both the national survey and school-based discussions. Attendees were invited to share their perspectives on whether these themes reflect the most significant issues facing education today, and to identify priorities that should be addressed at the Convention.
The consultation facilitated a broad and inclusive discussion, with participation from education stakeholders, community representatives, and members of the public. The event aimed to ensure that diverse voices were heard and that regional perspectives contribute meaningfully to shaping the future direction of education in Ireland.
KCETB Director of Schools Dr. Pauline Egan said “This regional consultation provides an essential opportunity for school leaders, teachers and communities to contribute their perspectives to the national conversation. By bringing these voices forward, we ensure that future policy and practice reflect the real experiences and needs of our school communities.”
KCETB Director of Further Education and Training Martha Bolger said “Hosting this regional consultation is vital in ensuring that the voices of learners, educators, and communities directly shape the national conversation. It allows us to gather real insights from those at the heart of Further Education and Training, helping to inform a system that truly meets regional and national needs.”
The insights gathered at the regional consultation will help inform the agenda for the Convention on Education in 2026.
