The concept of teaching as a high status profession is ever-evolving nationally and internationally, with recent trends propelling teaching through various educational reforms to an elevated professional standing. The Teaching Council’s adoption of the pillars of innovation, integration and improvement (Policy on the Continuum of Teacher Education, 2011), scaffolded by guiding principles, has positioned teacher education in Ireland at a transformative juncture.
Now, more than ever, initial teacher education programmes are in a privileged position to shape and influence a diverse profession, which will continue to mould and build a teaching context in which future diverse generations will be educated. The recent establishment of Hibernia College’s School of Education is an exciting development in this space, and demonstrates the College’s commitment to providing appropriate, high-level preparation of teachers.
The School of Education encompasses and guides the educational programme offerings of the College. The Professional Master of Education (Primary) and the Professional Master of Education (Post Primary) programmes endeavour to prepare, develop and support reflective and critical educators who are academically strong, pedagogically skilled, technology empowered and responsive to the needs of all citizens in a diverse global society. Both programmes consist of a sequence of modules that reflect the contemporary issues faced by teachers today, and the skills and knowledge required of them in order to be expert teachers who enable effective pupil learning.
Research lies at the heart of the School’s underlying philosophy. The School of Education’s research strategy is based on its commitment to excellence in continuing professional development across all its education and training degrees and courses. It stems from a belief in the importance of using evidence-based research to improve practice in education and training, and from the College’s mission to use the most innovative technology to extend access to high-quality, flexible and affordable adult and professional education and training.
This course is for you if you want to inspire and influence future generations and play a key role in the development of young children, and if you need a teaching course that allows you to study from anywhere in Ireland.
Do you want to affect change in a meaningful way by realising the talents and passions of students and encouraging young people to utilise and get the most out of their abilities? Then this course is for you.
Do you need a flexible course to develop your career in early childhood education? Become a reflective practitioner equipped to engage in inclusive and transformative leadership within a variety of early education and care settings.
A flexible course in the field of special education. Gain the knowledge, skills, values and competencies to provide inclusive education.
Hibernia College is committed to providing a supportive service and positive environment for all our students. You can find details about the services available to you and how to access them on this page.
Ciara O’Toole
Head of Student Affairs
Elaine Weldon-Berry
Student Support Officer
The Student Support Officer provides non-academic support if you need advice or are experiencing difficulties during your programme. The Student Support Officer also holds regular online clinics where you can book a one-to-one appointment. Please do not hesitate to contact the Student Support Officer if you are:
Experiencing personal difficulties or an emergency situation that is affecting your studies
Looking for information on the non-academic supports available
Seeking information on the Reasonable Accommodation policy
Seeking information on College procedures and policies, such as deferral
Seeking to give feedback on College- or programme-related matters
In need of guidance or direction on supports and pathways available
We understand that studying can be stressful, and it can be helpful to speak with someone who is separate from the normal and familiar daily environment — someone who is also separate from College faculty. All students have access to a free and confidential counselling service. Counselling can be provided in a variety of formats, online or in person, depending on your needs and preferences. It seeks to help by exploring, clarifying and resolving issues that may be troubling or confusing you.
You may want to contact the counselling service if you are:
Experiencing stress, anxiety or depression
Having family or relationship issues
Experiencing issues with exam nerves, decision-making, time management or public speaking
Student Representatives work in partnership with the College to amplify student voices in shaping and enhancing your learning and student experience.
We are committed to providing students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties with a fair learning environment. As a blended learning programme, delivery is through both face-to-face and online formats. All webinars are recorded and online content is delivered through an interactive format that allows you to study at your own pace and to revisit content at any time.
You can contact the disability support services through the Student Support Officer if you need guidance and advice on:
How you can apply for reasonable accommodation
Your individual requirements
Special examination arrangements
The Programme Administration team supports students and academic staff. A dedicated programme administrator will be your main point of contact throughout the programme. You can contact the team with any general queries you have, including non-academic assessment, placement and calendar queries.
Our Technical Support team is here to assist you with any IT-related queries, including:
Accessing and engaging with your course
Accessing live webinars, tutorials and events using Zoom
Uploading and submitting your work