Our Annual CEIST Conference was once again a tremendous success.

Over the course of the two-day event, CEIST members from across the country came together to celebrate, learn, and engage with one another.

To begin the conference, attendees had the opportunity to either enjoy a round of golf at Athlone Golf Club or take a boat tour on Lough Ree with Viking Mike. This was followed by tea and coffee, providing attendees with an opportunity to meet and engage with exhibitors.

The conference officially commenced with a Gathering Prayer and Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Michael Duignan, Bishop of Clonfert and Bishop of Galway and Kilmacduagh.

We were also delighted to be entertained by the exceptional vocal talents of the choir from Presentation College, Headford.

Following Mass, CEIST CEO Maeve Mahon delivered the Welcome Address, greeting attendees and introducing the newest members of the CEIST team.

Attendees were then addressed by Dr Melodie Wyttenbach of the Roche Center for Catholic Education at Boston College. In her presentation, “Cothú: Voices Around the Table,” Dr Wyttenbach explored the themes of nurturing faith, leadership, and community within our schools. Please below a recording of her speech.

Day One concluded with a Gala Dinner, providing attendees with an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends while also making new connections.

Day Two of the conference began with three engaging workshops:

Every Learner, Unlimited Potential

Nurturing Inclusive Special Classes in CEIST Schools
Gareth Donnelly, Deputy Principal, Mercy Secondary School, Kilbeggan

This workshop provided practical insights into specialist learning spaces, flexible curriculum pathways, staffing, and whole-school collaboration, highlighting how inclusive educational provision can help every learner thrive.

Balancing Priorities at Senior Cycle

Curriculum Planning Around Religious Education and SPHE from 2027
David McCormack, Principal, Scoil Mhuire, Trim, and John O’Rourke, FLG, CEIST

This session explored curriculum planning within the context of Catholic school ethos and examined the introduction of 60 hours of SPHE from 2027.

Safe Schools, Protected Communities

Working with Allianz to Manage Risk in CEIST Schools
Emma Coughlan, Head of Education Claims, and Alan Black, Education Manager, Allianz

Attendees received tailored insights drawn from CEIST school surveys and claims data, along with practical strategies for strengthening school safety culture. The workshop also examined case studies highlighting key lessons learned from legal proceedings.

Following the workshops, attendees were joined by Minister for Education, Hildegarde Naughton, who delivered an inspiring and thoughtful address to the conference.

The conference then heard from the Student Voice, represented this year by the Ember Team from St Joseph’s Secondary School, Rush. Please see a recording of their fantastic speech below

As the conference drew to a close, participants were presented with their COTHÚ certificates. Please click here for a full display of certificates.

The closing ceremony was further enriched by the wonderful performance of the choir from Our Lady’s College, Greenhills, Drogheda, bringing the event to a fitting and memorable conclusion.