In 2025, the Department of Education and Youth conducted its long-awaited Primary School Survey, giving families across Ireland the opportunity to have their say on the type of schools they want in their communities. The results, published on 7 April 2026, show that 40% of parents would prefer a multi-denominational, equality-based primary school—contrasting sharply with a system where 95% of schools remain under denominational control.
Educate Together CEO Dr Emer Nowlan: “We have seen demand for Educate Together schools growing steadily in recent years, and these results confirm that provision is out of step with parental preference. We know there are many schools where a majority of parents and staff favour Educate Together, and we look forward to supporting them through the transfer process.” Read Educate Together’s full statement here.
This is a significant opportunity to transform the Irish education system. With nearly 50 years’ experience in opening, transferring and supporting inclusive, equality-based schools, Educate Together looks forward to working with the Department to expand school choice nationwide.
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