UL School of Education and Limerick and Clare ETB Collaborative Professional Learning Project

A collaborative and sustainable School-University Partnership between University of Limerick’s School of Education and Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board Schools has been awarded a €5000 bursary by The Teaching Council for cross-sectoral professional learning activities. The Féilte Bursary Scheme is designed to support collaboration between schools, enhance teachers’ professional learning, and aims to build collaborative professional communities.

Welcoming the announcement, Donncha Ó Treasaigh, Acting Chief Executive, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, said: “Our Community National Schools, Community Special School and Community Colleges strive to promote excellence in serving the needs of our communities and we are delighted to work with the School of Education at University of Limerick to support student teachers in their development and learning”.

Internationally, co-operating teachers are acknowledged as pivotal in shaping student teachers’ school placement experiences. They facilitate student teachers’ integration into the profession through daily interactions and mentorship. This project aims to foster collaboration and communication within a school-university partnership, supporting both student and co-operating teachers. It will establish a comprehensive framework for school placements, ensuring clear expectations and development while respecting the unique cultures and experiences of individual schools.

Dr Ann-Marie Young, Academic Director of School Placement, University of Limerick, said: “We are delighted to share this exciting news to support the development of a collaborative and sustainable School-University Partnership between the School of Education and Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board. This partnership will provide a robust framework for professional collaboration, enriching the experience for all stakeholders involved. We look forward to strengthening our connections with Limerick and Clare ETB schools, working closely with principals, teachers, and student teachers to promote innovation and shared learning.”

The UL School of Education team working with Limerick and Clare ETB includes Dr Ann-Marie Young, Dr Rachel Lenihan and Blathnaid Breslin. The Limerick and Clare ETB team includes the ETB Director of Schools, Castletroy College, Ennis Community College, Killaloe Community College, Kilkee Community College, Coláiste Mhuire, Askeaton, Raheen Wood Community National School, and Limerick Community Special School.