‘I think the schools should be more engaged with the individual students. None of the teachers reach out to the students to see how they are actually doing.’

Analysis: research into the pandemic experiences of Irish youths has identified key themes around wellbeing, mental health and the school system

By Carmen Kealy and Eamonn Furey, NUI Galway

As well as having an effect on student engagement, teaching practice and assessment, pandemic-related school closures in the last two years may have long term consequences for young people. As we move towards post pandemic life and with this year’s Junior and Leaving Cert examinations on the way, a re-evaluation of Irish educational policies and practice is warranted.

A team of researchers from NUI Galway looked at how marginalised and non-marginalised young people (12 to 18 years of age) and their parents coped with life and education since 2020. Surveys and interviews were conducted to document families’ experiences and make recommendations. Some key themes emerged around wellbeing, mental health and flexibility in the delivery and assessment of the school curriculum. Continue reading…