Joint Institute of Education

A statement from the Principal of Church of Ireland College of Education, the Director of Mater Dei Institute and the Presidents of St Patrick's College, Drumcondra and Dublin City University announces intention to create a new Institute of Education and an enhanced capacity and consolidation in Humanities and Social Sciences.

Throughout the past year, higher education institutions have been working to craft a response to the Higher Education Authority's 'Landscape' document that envisages a significantly changed configuration for higher education in Ireland. Today's report from Government on the outcome of the International Panel Review of Initial Teacher Education is a central part of that process.

In this context, Dublin City University (DCU), St Patrick's College, Drumcondra (SPD), Mater Dei Institute of Education (MDI) and the Church of Ireland College of Education (CICE) wish to confirm that they are engaged in a common, formal process aimed at establishing

1. a new Institute of Education and 
2. an enhanced capacity and consolidation in the Humanities and Social Sciences.

While respecting the identity of the individual institutions, it is envisaged that this process will lead to the creation of a single University entity. The process is being informed by best international practice. The outcome is subject to the ultimate approval of the relevant stakeholders of each institution.

The Chairperson of the Board of Governors of the Church of Ireland College of Education, Archbishop Michael Jackson, welcomed this development, stating, "To be part of such an exciting development nationally for Initial Teacher Education is the opening of a new chapter for CICE. As an institution, we have embraced change and development positively at various points throughout our history and are committed to doing so again."

Archbishop Diarmuid Martin noted that,

"Saint Patrick's College, Drumcondra has played a vital and unique role in teacher education and the evolution of educational thought over generations. Though historically younger, Mater Dei Institute has carved out a reputation in religious education at second level. I am very pleased at the new opportunities offered with the participation of CICE. This is a further sign of a new level of ecumenical cooperation between Archbishop Jackson and myself."

"Together with the dynamism of DCU, I see a promising pattern of cooperation emerging which responds to the challenge of developing educational policy in a pluralist society where religious education will be present in the highest level of excellence."

Responding to the report, President of DCU, Prof Brian MacCraith, stated,

"This proposed research-led Institute of Education has the potential to play a central role in transforming the future of Irish education. We are also delighted that our discussions to date have been characterised by a spirit of collegiality, mutual respect and a common understanding that together we can deliver more in terms of teaching, research and service. Realising our transformative vision of education will require considerable consultation and dialogue within and across our respective institutions throughout the months ahead."

This initiative will provide a unique opportunity to prepare the very best teachers for all the children of the nation. The Institute will also open unparalleled opportunities for the continuing professional development of teachers, informed by the research and practice of the four partner institutions.

Principal of Church of Ireland College of Education, Dr Anne Lodge
Director of Mater Dei Institute of Education, Dr Andrew McGrady
President of Mater Dei Institute of Education, Dr Dermot Lane 
President of St Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dr Dáire Keogh 
President of Dublin City University, Prof Brian MacCraith