Coláiste na Ríochta, Listowel, was €5,000 as part to collaborate with three schools*, to focus on embedding inclusive practices for all learners, through the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework.
This project aimed to establish a Community of Practice to support whole-school implementation, drawing on the national Cosán Framework. Teachers engaged in shared planning, professional development, peer mentoring, and reflective collaboration to build confidence and provide meaningful choices, accessibility, and engagement in classrooms. The project aimed to create a sustainable culture of inclusion supported by adaptable UDL resources and ongoing dialogue across schools.
*List of collaborating schools:
- Castleisland Community College
- Coláiste Gleann Lí Post Primary School
- Causeway Comprehensive School
School's reflection
Our teacher professional learning project, “Unlocking Potential: From Teachers to Teachers through the UDL Lens,” brought together four schools with a shared commitment to inclusive teaching. We were also joined by the Director of Schools and the Technology Enhanced Learning Coordinator, which strengthened our collaborative approach and ensured our work aligned with broader school and ETB priorities. Progress and outcomes were regularly shared in principals’ meetings, increasing visibility and support for our project.
Using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, we focused on supporting all learners, including those with SEN and EAL, by making teaching more accessible and engaging. We enhanced a short course to include UDL and AI principles, and our guidelines will be included in next year’s student journals. Our work included four collaborative meetings (two online, two in-person full-day sessions), where we developed UDL-friendly lesson resources, peer observation templates, and digital learning quick guides. A shared OneDrive folder facilitated resource sharing and best practice exchange.
AI and digital tools played a key role, supporting lesson planning, differentiation, and accessibility. Teachers reported increased confidence with UDL and AI, while students experienced more inclusive, engaging learning. The project fostered strong inter-school links, shared resource banks, and a culture of collaboration demonstrating the impact of working together to create inclusive classrooms.