Minister Moynihan opens NCSE inclusion conference
Minister of State Michael Moynihan launched the NCSE’s Annual Research Conference focused on inclusive education and student belonging. Held at Croke Park, the event gathered national and international experts to discuss evidence-based practices and policy developments in Ireland.
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Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion Michael Moynihan officially opened the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) Annual Research Conference, which took place at Croke Park, Dublin. The event convened leading researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders from Ireland and abroad to explore the latest research on inclusive education, student wellbeing, and creating a sense of belonging within educational settings.
In his opening remarks, Minister Moynihan highlighted the significance of the conference against the backdrop of the government’s unprecedented investment in special education. He emphasised that inclusion extends beyond mere access to education, focusing on fostering environments where every child feels welcomed, valued, and supported to reach their full potential. The insights shared at the conference aim to guide policy formulation and enhance inclusive practices across Irish schools.
The programme featured distinguished speakers such as Professor Erik Carter from Baylor University, who discussed his ten dimensions of belonging, and Professor Elizabeth Walton from the University of Nottingham, who presented an ecological perspective on inclusion. Other contributors included Dr Caoimhe Dempsey of University College Cork, Dr Mary Kelly of Hibernia Colleges Group, and Dr Deirdre MacIntyre from ICEP Europe, all sharing research relevant to Ireland's inclusive education landscape. John Kearney, CEO of the NCSE, noted the crucial role of research in informing effective educational policies and fostering inclusion for all learners. The conference attracted a diverse audience from across the education sector, including school leaders, teachers, researchers, and advocates.
In his opening remarks, Minister Moynihan highlighted the significance of the conference against the backdrop of the government’s unprecedented investment in special education. He emphasised that inclusion extends beyond mere access to education, focusing on fostering environments where every child feels welcomed, valued, and supported to reach their full potential. The insights shared at the conference aim to guide policy formulation and enhance inclusive practices across Irish schools.
The programme featured distinguished speakers such as Professor Erik Carter from Baylor University, who discussed his ten dimensions of belonging, and Professor Elizabeth Walton from the University of Nottingham, who presented an ecological perspective on inclusion. Other contributors included Dr Caoimhe Dempsey of University College Cork, Dr Mary Kelly of Hibernia Colleges Group, and Dr Deirdre MacIntyre from ICEP Europe, all sharing research relevant to Ireland's inclusive education landscape. John Kearney, CEO of the NCSE, noted the crucial role of research in informing effective educational policies and fostering inclusion for all learners. The conference attracted a diverse audience from across the education sector, including school leaders, teachers, researchers, and advocates.
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