Portlaoise College teachers in collaboration with university

Teachers and principals from Portlaoise College and Portlaoise Institute are upskilled in university style learning to pass on to their students.

Ahead of going back to school this week, staff from the campus on the Mountrath Road have collaborated with the South Eastern Technological University (SETU) to participate in a “Exploring Pedagogical Possibilities” conference.

The event was hosted at the Haughton Building at the SETU Carlow campus, launched by David Denieffe Vice-President for Academic Affairs and Registrar at SETU.

Portlaoise Institute and Portlaoise College staff took part in three education workshops: Blended Learning, Team-Based Learning, and Enhanced Learning Environments.

The Principal in Portlaoise Institute is Keith McClearn.

“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in this exceptional event hosted by SETU Carlow. Staff from Portlaoise Institute certainly found immense value in the workshops led by Dr Gina Noonan and her SETU colleagues," he said.

They exchanged knowledge and cultivated a collaborative spirit he said.

“Even though, due to growth in student numbers, Portlaoise College and Portlaoise Institute became separate educational institutions in the last year, it was great for both staff to hear and learn about different perspectives on teaching and learning”.

Noel Daly is Principal of Portlaoise College.

'Outstanding' results celebrated at Portlaoise College

“The event underscored the importance of evolving teaching methods in the dynamic landscape of education. I would like to thank SETU Carlow staff for orchestrating an event that not only enriches pedagogical practices but also facilitates meaningful connections between Portlaoise College and SETU,” he said.

One of the highlights of the day was the launch of a Community of Practice by Dr Gina Noonan, Head of Centre for Teaching and Learning at SETU, which aims to foster ongoing collaboration and sharing of best practices among educators between the different educational settings.