Anseo.net - If I were the Minister for Education

In this episode of ‘If I Were the Minister for Education,’ I discuss the tumultuous journey of the Irish Primary Language Curriculum since its inception in 2016. I explain the confusing and unworkable nature of the curriculum, which stemmed from panic-induced reforms after a minor dip in Ireland’s PISA scores in 2009. I highlight the chaotic development process plagued by bullying allegations and mass resignations within the NCCA. I describe the practical challenges teachers faced with the original curriculum’s complex and unmanageable format, likening it to an accordion. Despite efforts by the PDST to provide clarity, the curriculum remains inadequately understood and halfway implemented a decade later. I underscore the recurring patterns of vagueness and panic-driven educational reforms in Ireland, leaving teachers to navigate and adapt to these changes on their own.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:47 The Primary Language Curriculum: A Decade of Confusion
02:15 The Roots of the Curriculum Chaos
05:07 The PISA Panic and Its Aftermath
09:56 The Chaotic Development Process
15:13 The Unmanageable Curriculum Rollout
21:13 Teachers’ Struggles and Adaptations
23:55 Reflections and Future Concerns
27:08 Conclusion and Farewell


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I couldn’t think of a better title to this week’s podcast which is all about admin work. Unfortunately, the biggest change to my job in the last decade or two is the crazy increase in administrative work and constant additions to my workload. My brain physically can’t hold it all so I decided to make it my aim to outsource my brain. This episode goes through some techy tools to help with admin. If nothing else, it will make a good sleeping aid.


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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


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Every time I open Google’s NotebookLM, it gets better and better. The graphic above was created using the app and I think it did a good job of summarising the year in a single graphic.
The podcast didn’t do a bad job either though it fell into temptation a couple of times referring to issues at second level. However, all in all, I’m pretty pleased with it, and I’d love to know what you think.


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In this episode of 'If I were the Minister for Education', I delve into the integration of AI in the Irish Primary Education System joined by Amanda Jolliffe, the lead of Microsoft Ireland's Dream Space, to discuss the influence of AI on education and the various innovative tools and programs offered by Dream Space. We explore how AI can assist both teachers and students, from lesson planning to creative learning activities. The discussion covers not only the benefits and applications of AI but also the importance of critical thinking, ethical use, and equitable access to technology in schools. The episode also highlights the significance of professional learning for teachers and forthcoming initiatives like a new Dream Space hub focused on skilling and cloud operation infrastructure.
More about Dream Space: https://dreamspace.microsoft.com/en-us/dreamspace/ireland
Oide AI Hub: https://www.oidetechnologyineducation.ie/ai-hub/


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