UCD Innovation Academy together with Folens Publishers have embarked on an exciting collaboration to promote innovation in secondary schools around the country.

The Folens Innovation in Education Scholarship will offer 10 secondary school teachers working in schools around Ireland the chance to enhance their teaching practice and gain a UCD Professional Certificate for Entrepreneurial Educators.

Over the past two years, the Innovation Academy has explored new ways to teach with almost 200 teachers and academics in Ireland and overseas through its Professional Certificate for Entrepreneurial Educators. This unique course offers participants an opportunity to reflect on their teaching practice, examine new trends in education and learn how to apply creative processes to design impactful solutions in the classroom.

The feedback from graduates of the course is telling. Geography Teacher, Peter Lydon is a past participant of the course and had this to say about his experience; “When you have done this course you will never look at your classroom the same way again.”

Ann O’Reilly, Assistant Principal at St. Raphaela’s Secondary School in Dublin had this to say; “Everyone in my school can see the benefits of my having done the course. Even if you feel you’re coming to the end of your career it’s a great course to do and an opportunity to be re-inspired. A course like this coupled with the wisdom that comes from years of teaching means that you can continue to engage with the changing nature of education in an energetic and meaningful way.”

Speaking about the scholarship Folens Publishers Sales and Marketing Director Andy Miller says “The world of education is changing rapidly. It is important that companies like Folens are able to respond and support innovation and creativity among the teachers of Ireland for the benefit of their students.” “We are delighted to be working with UCD towards the successful implementation of this initiative.” he said.

Founding Director of the Innovation Academy, Prof. Suzi Jarvis says that “We are profoundly grateful that Folens are supporting teachers via these scholarships. Our programmes support teachers in developing innovative ways to enhance the learning experiences and educational outcomes for their students and we are delighted to now be able to offer scholarships to teachers who might not otherwise be able to participate.

Applications are open for the Professional Certificate and Diploma for Entrepreneurial Educators. For further information please see /www.innovators.ie/educators/