On the Margins

Helen Lowe is a university teacher and researcher at the University of Limerick, whose work explores social class, inequality of access, and stark contrast in opportunities afforded to people, based on their address. She brings a unique perspective, blending her academic research and personal experiences.Expect to learn about how class shapes educational opportunity in Ireland, the emotional and structural barriers faced by the working class, and why personal experience is vital in understanding and challenging inequality in education.We really enjoyed this powerful conversation with Helen and gaining insight into how social class continues to influence access, participation, and belonging in Irish education.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

Joe is a Restorative Practice trainer, with decades of experience in education, youth work, and community engagement. His work focuses on building relationships, resolving conflict, and creating inclusive environments in schools and beyond.Expect to learn about the principles of Restorative Practice, how it’s transforming classrooms and communities across Ireland, and why empathy, dialogue, and accountability are more important than ever in today’s world.We really enjoyed this conversation with Joe as we explore how restorative approaches can reshape how we connect, teach, and lead.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comment section below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

Sooo....... when we started podcasting, we had a lot to learn! In this episode, we revisit our first podcast, with improved audio and you, the listener in mind.Anita Dooley is head teacher in Limerick Prison, a local activist and a Mother.Expect to learn what a Prison Education looks like from a teachers’ perspective, the stark contrast between public perception and Anita's view of prisoners, the value of educated for those who are incarcerated, and much, much more.This was a deep and insightful conversation with someone who has contagious passion for the work she does.Questions or comments? Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

PJ is a Home Education Assessor with TUSLA, formerly a second level educator and school principalExpect to learn about Irelands unique constitution, its role in home schooling, why home education is booming, and the many reasons students & parents choose alternative educational means.We really enjoyed this insightful conversation with PJ and gaining an insight into this unique aspect of the Irish Education system.Questions or comments? Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

Declan Rodgers and Cian Williams are students at the University of Limerick, both supported by the UL Access programme and Engage. Expect to learn how this programme has opened doors to higher education, offering financial, academic, and personal supports that helped Declan complete a Master’s in Education and enabled Cian to pursue a degree in medicine. In this episode, they share their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the transformative impact of access to opportunity.If you are interested in supporting Engage, visit https://engage-edu.ie/support-us/.Questions or feedback? Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

Sorcha Wharton-August is the Community Employment Supervisor and Manager of St Mary’s Adult Education Centre, a cornerstone of lifelong learning in Limerick’s St Mary’s Parish. Expect to learn how the centre evolved from a grassroots initiative into a thriving outreach campus offering QQI-accredited programmes, social activity classes, and confidential literacy supports. Sorcha shares the story behind the centre’s growth, the impact of community employment, and how adult education is transforming lives across generations—and much, much more.For more information about St Mary’s Adult Education Centre, visit their website: www.stmarysadulteducation.ie Questions or feedback? Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

John Roche is the Project Director at Engage, a Limerick-based initiative supporting students and families across Southill, Ballinacurra Weston, St Mary’s Park, and Moyross.Expect to learn how Engage’s three core programmes—Nurture, Compass, and Engage—work together to support young people from primary school through to college graduation. John shares how the team blends education, community activism, and personal development to unlock potential, build resilience, and create real opportunities for success. This episode is a deep dive into what it means to walk alongside a student, a family, and a community.For more information about Engage and its programmes, visit engage-edu.ie.Questions or feedback?Let us know in the comments below, orEmail us: edonthemargins@gmail.comCheck out our website: www.edonthemargins.com

Veronica Ryan and Peadar Kirby are residents of a pioneering community.Expect to learn about the innovative practices and community spirit that define Cloughjordan Ecovillage. Veronica and Peadar share their personal experiences and insights of life in Ireland's only eco village. Discover the challenges and triumphs of creating a sustainable, eco-friendly environment, the commitment to renewable energy and organic farming, and the vibrant social initiatives that make Cloughjordan a model for sustainable living. Whether you're an environmental enthusiast or simply curious about sustainable living, this episode offers many valuable nuggets of information, and much, much more.Questions or comments? Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com