Convention on Education - Parents / Guardians

Invitation to apply to Take Part in the Convention on Education 

Dear parents and guardians, 

In 2026 the Department of Education and Youth will hold the Convention on Education – a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help shape Ireland’s school system for decades to come and set out a shared vision for the future of education. The Convention will bring together diverse voices at four events during 2026 to share ideas and discuss solutions for the challenges and opportunities ahead.  

More information about the Convention on Education can be found at gov.ie/educationconvention 

To ensure the Convention reflects as many perspectives as possible, the Department of Education and Youth is seeking expressions of interest from parents and guardians and children and young people aged 8-24 to take part. This will involve attending two-day events and workshops over weekends in March, May, September, and November. Accommodation and catering will be provided for each meeting as required and travel expenses will be reimbursed. Children under the age of 18 must have consent from their parent or guardian to participate and a parent or guardian will be required to accompany them to events.  

If you are interested, please complete this form Convention on education expression of interest form for parents and guardians of children – Fill out form by January 16 2026.  

If your child aged 8-17 is interested, please complete this form  Convention on Education expression of interest form for children and young people – Fill out form with them by January 16 2026.  

Further details can be found at gov.ie/educationconvention