Whether you are a parent, a student or an adult wishing to return to education, it is useful for you to become familiar with the Irish education system. Whatever area of education you wish to pursue for yourself or for your child, it is important to find out as much as possible about the options that are open to you. On the Department of Education and Skills website you can find a Brief Description of the Irish Education System (pdf). You can also read information on Irish education in Russian, German, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish and Spanish.
Many changes and improvements have been made to the system over recent years, creating greater access and flexibility in the delivery of education at all levels.
Partly because of changing patterns of employment, more parents than before are availing of pre-school education and childcare for their children. At primary and post-primary level, there are more multi-denominational and co-educational schools than in the past. You can also choose from schools that teach the curriculum through Irish (Gaelscoileanna) or from those that teach modern European languages to children from a very young age.
Third-level options have also improved and there are a number of alternative practical routes that lead to advanced qualifications if the traditional academic path is not appropriate.
Opportunities have also improved for adults who wish to return to education or continue their education on a full-time or part-time basis.
State-funded education is available at primary and post-primary levels, so you will not have to pay fees unless you choose to send your child to a private school. Pre-schools are generally run on a private and fee-paying basis, though there may be some State help in certain circumstances. You will have to pay fees for third-level education unless you qualify for "free fees".
See other documents on Education:
Moving your child to an Irish primary school