An outdoor 'nature based' teacher training event is to be held in Laois this summer.

Over 40 primary school teachers from across the country will gather in Laois to attend a prestigious outdoor training workshop at Laois Forest School.

This sold-out training day combines outdoor education with global citizenship learning, giving educators a hands-on opportunity to explore global themes such as sustainability, climate action, and social justice — all while immersed in nature.

“We want to support teachers in connecting local action with global issues—right from the schoolyard,” said Ailbhe Joyce, founder of Laois Forest School and organiser of the event.

Pictured: Last year's Global Village School's teacher training event at Laois Forest School

“The outdoors is the perfect space for global learning. It encourages curiosity, empathy, and a sense of connection.”

Participants will take part in interactive workshops, nature walks, and creative sessions designed to reflect the challenges
and opportunities of educating for a better world.

The one-day training hosted by Global Village aims to equip teachers with tools and inspiration to bring these critical
global issues into their classrooms using active, experiential methods.

This fully booked event highlights growing interest among educators in making primary education more relevant, inclusive, and impactful. Attendees will leave with resource packs, new networks, and practical ideas for embedding sustainability and justice into everyday teaching.

“We believe the best place to spark global thinking is under open skies and among peers who are passionate about shaping the future," Ms Joyce said.

Pictured: Fun was had at last year's training event

"This event supports teachers in weaving global issues into outdoor, active learning experiences that stick.”

Global Village is a strategic partnership between Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs, and a consortium of Dublin City University (DCU), Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO), Irish Primary Principals’ Network (IPPN) and Trócaire.

Global Village is a Global Citizenship Education (GCE) programme for primary schools in Ireland. It aims to support primary school pupils to become active global citizens committed to building a fairer and more sustainable world.

Engaging with teachers and school communities, Global Village is working to increase the reach, quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of GCE in primary schools.

Global Village aims to do so through research, learning and establishing connections with key stakeholders in the GCE and Primary Education sectors.

See More: PICTURES: Portlaoise students do 'hands-on' training at Laois Forest School