On Thursday, 19th September, 7 students from Kinsale Community School (KCS) had the unique opportunity to attend the Department of Education on its Marlborough Street campus to mark 100 years since the establishment of the Department in 1924, under the Ministers and Secretaries Act.   

 This milestone event marked 100 years since the establishment of the Department, reflecting on a century of educational progress and the impact it has had on Irish society. 

Representing the student body, KCS students and Primary school students from Navan Road, Dublin, joined Minister of Education Norma Foley and other distinguished guests in celebrating this important moment in Irish history. The event took place at Government Buildings, where students engaged in a series of discussions and presentations that highlighted the evolution of education in Ireland, from its humble beginnings to the modern, inclusive system we see today. 

Throughout the day, students had the chance to hear from key figures in education, including Minister for Education Norma Foley, who spoke passionately about the future of Irish education. The event also featured inspiring talks from RTE Broadcaster, Olivia O’Leary, who reflected on her education from primary school, all the way through her third level studies in UCD.  There was a panel discussion chaired by Patrick Geoghegan, with Dr.Hannah McGinley, Katherine Donnelly and Dr.Harold Hislop, all of whom made noteworthy and thought provoking contributions.   KCS students participated actively in the Q&A, by posiing two questions to the panel. 

For the students of KCS, the centenary celebration offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on the role of education in their lives, while also gaining insight into the policies and developments that will guide Irish education in the years to come. Their participation in this historic event was a proud moment for the school and a testament to KCS’s commitment to fostering leadership, inclusion, and active citizenship.