MDCCE Welcomes Prof. David Hall

The Mater Dei Institute of Education welcomed Professor David Hall of the La Salle Academy Australian Catholic University to DCU Institute of Education on Tues 15th March 2017. The Academy is committed to religious education and education leadership, seeking to support and enhance the preparation of teachers and leaders by utilising the capacity, skills and dedication of those engaged in Catholic education.

Dr. Gareth Byrne, Director of MDCCE, welcomed Prof. Hall and introduced him to the Institute of Education lectures involved in religious education at primary level with whom there were many points of mutual interest. David then met the post-primary team from the BRelEd Programme with whom a good exchange of ideas also took place. Lunch was with the Deputy President of the University, Prof Daire Keogh and the Executive Dean of the Institute of Education, Prof. Anne Looney, who were both were very encouraging of collaboration between the Academy and the Mater Dei Centre for Catholic Education into the future.

After lunch Dr. Byrne brought Prof. Hall to observe the student leadership conference organised by the Ceist Trust Board with over 300 student participants on campus (see separate news item).  Prof. Hall was delighted with the opportunity to meet the Ceist leadership team as well as teachers and students of schools from all over Ireland.

Overall it was a packed day. We look forward to developing links with Professor Hall and the La Salle Academy into the future and collaborating together on projects to enhance Catholic education, religious education, faith development and education leadership in appropriate ways for the world of today and its young people.