Fermoy teachers attending FÉILTE, Robin Smith (left) with Dennis Kerrins, Heather Smith, Melanie Jones and Hillary Smith. (Pic: Robbie Reynolds Photography)

Over 1,000 teachers and members of the public celebrated innovation in teaching and learning at FÉILTE 2016, the Festival of Education in Learning and Teaching Excellence, which took place last weekend in the RDS, Dublin.

Hosted by the Teaching Council, FÉILTE, which is now in its fourth year, has grown to be one of the largest gatherings of teachers in Ireland.

FÉILTE 2016 featured a mix of over 50 showcases and workshops spanning projects from across the school sector, demonstrating the innovation happening in teaching and learning in schools across the country, including a number from Adair School in Fermoy.

The event was opened by Minister for Education and Skills, Mr Richard Bruton T.D, while a keynote session on leadership was delivered by the Irish rugby coach, Joe Schmidt, who is also a former teacher, in conversation with RTE broadcaster and MC for the event, Keelin Shanley.

There was also a range of panel discussions on some of the key issues facing parents and teachers today – well-being, diversity in Irish schools, and digital education.

Speaking about the event, Teaching Council Director, Tomás Ó Ruairc said: “Collaboration is a key hallmark of the teaching profession today, and is reflected in the new and innovative learning experiences of our children and young people across the country. The classroom is a changing space…. FÉILTE reflects this dynamism, showcasing the many different faces of teaching and learning today”.