Second-level students from Galway ETSS, Limerick ETSS and Cork ETSS came together on 19 March for a powerful, student-led Ethical Education and Global Citizenship Education (GCE) event.
Designed and hosted by the Student Advisory Group — including TY students who took on roles such as MCs, media team, workshop designers and facilitators — the day showcased what meaningful student leadership looks like in practice. A total of 68 students from 1st to 5th year took part, bringing energy and insight across the three schools.
This year’s theme, “Growing Up Now: Navigating a Connected World,” was chosen by students themselves. It reflects the realities young people are negotiating every day: digital life, global interdependence, identity, wellbeing and the responsibilities that come with being connected to the wider world.
A Day of Thought-Provoking Discussion
The programme opened with a thought-provoking session facilitated by Alex Wyatt from Global Action Plan, titled “Misinformation and Disinformation: What’s Even Real Anymore?” Students then rotated through a series of student-led workshops exploring ethical dilemmas, global issues and the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex world.
Running alongside the workshops was a vibrant Global Citizenship Fair, where students explored themes such as climate justice, interconnectedness and equality. The fair remained active throughout the day, offering a dynamic space for discussion and creativity.
Education Shaped by Second-level Students
What makes this event especially meaningful is that it is entirely student driven, supported through the network’s GCE programme and funded by WorldWise Global Schools (Irish Aid). The student events are part of the network’s Global Citizenship Education annual programme for second-level. Students shaped the theme, designed the sessions and led the learning for their peers — modelling the kind of active, critical and compassionate citizenship at the heart of the Educate Together ethos.
We extend our thanks to WorldWise Global Schools for their financial support, which makes these vital opportunities for student leadership and connection possible.
These gatherings highlight the creativity, leadership and insight of young people across our second level schools. They are not just participants in education — they are shaping it.
A Bright Future
The day in Limerick concluded with an engaging address from CEO Emer Nowlan, who assured students that their insights will feed directly into Educate Together’s contribution to the National Conversation on Education.
Reflecting on the event, Tara Broderick from Galway ETSS said:
“As always it was wonderful to be a part of the Student Event. Every year, the students are eager to be involved and love getting the chance to design and lead a workshop. Such a great day!”
LeighAnn Mulrennan, also from Galway ETSS, added:
“It was fantastic to witness the creativity of all the students today, and the confidence they showed in their discussions of the global challenges of our world. They offered a wide range of sources and provided hope. Our future looks bright with these students taking action!”
For the students themselves, the day was an opportunity to connect and collaborate. Molly Chapple and Sadhbh Ní Chonghaile, both in 4th year, shared:
“It was great to get different perspectives from other schools and learn alongside them, it was a great atmosphere filled with different thinkers all willing to share their thoughts and ideas.”
What’s Next?
The next student-led event will take place at Stepaside ETSS, Dublin 18, on 16 April 2026. We look forward to seeing more of the creativity, leadership and insight that our students continue to bring to the network.
