The NPC Podcast

Leaving Cert Pathways – Tech Apprenticeships Explained: A Parent’s Guide (with FIT) In this episode of the #NPC podcast , we take a closer look at tech apprenticeships in Ireland — what they actually involve, how they work in practice, and what they can offer young people and their families. We hear from someone working directly in the tech apprenticeship space with FIT – Fast Track into Informati...

🎙️ Episode 3 — Beyond College: Apprenticeships, Training & Direct Work Routes University isn’t the only path. In this episode, we explore apprenticeships, traineeships, PLCs, and direct routes into work — what they look like today, how they’re changing, and how parents can support teens to choose the path that fits. What’s inside Real stories from a software-development apprentice and a PLC le...

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘂𝘀 – 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 Transitioning from Leaving Cert exams to university life involves more than just CAO points. In this engaging and informative episode, we explore the challenges and solutions for families navigating this crucial phase. Featured Guests: Sarah Grimson, Associate Director: Admissions & Post Entry, Trinity College Dublin Bríd Hannan, Education...

The Leaving Cert Journey – Stress & Wellbeing 📌 Focus: Recognising pressure, spotting hidden stress, and simple supports for students and parents 👥 Guests: Owen Houlihan – Guidance Counsellor & Leaving Cert Helpline volunteer Dr Kim Lombard – Mental-Health Clinician, Jigsaw Alisha – First-year student (sat LC 2024) Tríona – Parent of a recent LC student (Donegal) 💡 Key Points: Why the L...

Understanding the Redevelopment of Senior Cycle Education: Insights from the NCCA In this episode of the NPC Podcast We’re joined by Arlene Forster, CEO of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). Arlene shares insights into the redevelopment of the Senior Cycle and how these changes aim to create a more inclusive, student-centred education system. We explore: The NCCA’s role in...

NPC Podcast - ISSU Episode In this episode of the NPC Podcast We’re joined by Jack McGinn , President of the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU). Jack shares insights into how students feel about the Senior Cycle changes and what these reforms mean for their education and wellbeing. We explore: The ISSU’s views on the proposed Senior Cycle reforms. The shift from single-terminal exams to ong...

Episode Description Episode Description In this episode of the NPC Podcast , we’re joined by Shane Martin , Chartered Psychologist and keynote speaker at the upcoming NPC Education Conference 2024 – Building Futures Together . Shane shares valuable insights into how parents can support their children’s mental health and build resilience in an increasingly challenging world. We explore: Practical s...

Understanding the Redevelopment of Senior Cycle Education: Insights from Dr Colman Noctor on Senior Cycle Pressures In this episode of the NPC Podcast series on Senior Cycle Redevelopment, we speak with Dr Colman Noctor , a child and adolescent psychotherapist. Dr Noctor shares his expert insights on the impact of the Senior Cycle on students' mental health and wellbeing, as well as the pressures...

Understanding the Redevelopment of Senior Cycle Education: Insights from the Department of Education In this inaugural episode of the NPC Podcast series on Senior Cycle Redevelopment, we speak with Esther Doyle from the Department of Education. Esther provides valuable insights into the comprehensive changes being planned for Ireland's senior cycle, covering what parents, students, and educato...