On the Margins

In this episode, we're joined by Katie Walsh, author of Eyes for All, an educational booklet designed to help schools better support students with visual impairments.Drawing on her own experiences as a visually impaired student, Katie discusses the barriers that can exist within mainstream education and the changes that can make learning more accessible and inclusive for everyone. Through her book, she has created a practical guide for teachers, school leaders, and students, helping to raise awareness and improve understanding of visual impairment in educational settings.Expect to learn about the realities of navigating education with a visual impairment, the importance of listening to student voice, and how small changes can have a significant impact on inclusion, participation, and belonging.We really enjoyed this conversation with Katie and gaining insight into how lived experience can drive meaningful change in education. Her story is a powerful reminder that some of the most important innovations come directly from the learners themselves.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.comIf you would like a copy of the book, do get in touch with us!

In this episode, we're joined by Mikey McCarthy and Margaret O'Brien following the recent Traveller Pride event at the University of Limerick.Together, they discuss their journeys through education and their experiences as Traveller students in higher education. Reflecting on both the opportunities and challenges they have encountered, Mikey and Margaret explore the barriers that continue to impact Traveller participation in education and the importance of creating spaces where students feel they truly belong.Mikey also speaks openly about his experience of coming out as a gay traveller, sharing his reflections on identity, acceptance, and the importance of visibility and representation.Expect to learn about the realities of being a Traveller student in higher education, the significance of Traveller Pride, and why belonging is just as important as access when it comes to educational success.We really enjoyed this conversation with Mikey and Margaret and gaining insight into the resilience, determination, and ambition that continue to challenge perceptions and create new pathways for future generations of Traveller students.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In this episode, we're joined by Eoghan O'Byrne, Principal of St Mary's National School on King's Island in Limerick City.Eoghan discusses the wide range of initiatives taking place within the school to support learners and expand educational opportunities for children in the community. He reflects on the importance of high expectations, early intervention, and creating experiences that help young people see new possibilities for their futures.The conversation also explores the flood relief scheme for Limerick City and what it could mean for King's Island. Eoghan shares his vision of the project as a generational opportunity for the area, creating greater connectivity between King's Island, the city centre, and the University of Limerick, while helping to showcase the area's rich history, culture, and potential.Expect to learn about the role schools can play in community development, the importance of place in shaping educational opportunity, and why investment in communities can help transform both educational and life outcomes.We really enjoyed this conversation with Eoghan and gaining insight into the work being done to support children, families, and the wider community on King's Island.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In this episode, we're joined by Patricia Kennedy Quish, or Trish, whose work as an Adult Educator, Adult Literacy Co-ordinator, Prison Educator, and VTOS Co-ordinator has impacted the lives of countless learners.Trish discusses the power of education to create opportunities for those who may have experienced barriers to learning. Throughout the conversation, she shares insights from adult literacy programmes, VTOS and her personal life, highlighting the importance of meeting learners where they are, and recognising the strengths they bring with them.Expect to learn about the role of second-chance education, the impact of literacy on confidence and participation, and why hope, dignity, and belonging are central to effective educational practice.We really enjoyed this conversation with Trish and gaining insight into how education can transform lives, communities, and futures.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In this episode, Dan and Eamonn chat with James Lawlor and Rachel Gleeson from Narrative 4 Ireland, a movement using storytelling and deep listening to build empathy, connection, and understanding across communities.Narrative 4's Story Exchange invites participants to share personal stories before retelling the story of another person in the first person. The result is a powerful exercise in empathy that challenges assumptions, breaks down barriers, and creates meaningful human connections.Whether you're an educator, student, youth worker, or simply interested in understanding others more deeply, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most innovative approaches to empathy-building in education today.Some of the studies discussed in this episode:Gill, J., & McMahon, J. (2025). An Evaluation of a Story Exchange Teacher Training Intervention to Promote Empathy.https://narrative4.ie/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/05/Yale-Emotion-Revolution-Study.pdfKubin, E. et al. (2025). Promoting Empathy, Connection, and Pro-Sociality Through Storytelling in American High Schools: A Collaboration Between Academic and Practitioners.Questions or comments?Have you tried story exchange before?📩 Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In the this episode, we’re joined by Catherine O’Halloran from Limerick City Build.Catherine shares insights into Limerick City Build’s learning-by-doing approach, where participants learn in a holistic, client-centred environment that supports both personal and professional development. Grounded in multidisciplinary and trauma-informed practice, this model recognises the impact of lived experience and creates space for learners to build confidence, skills, and direction through real-world engagement.Together, we explore how this approach challenges traditional education models and opens meaningful pathways for those who may have felt excluded from mainstream systems.Learn more about Limerick City Build: https://www.limerickcitybuild.ie/ We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode:What role should learning-by-doing play in education?How can education better reflect the realities of learners’ lives?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In the first episode of Season 2, we’re joined by Lee Keylock, Vice President of Global Impact at Narrative 4, an organisation using storytelling to build empathy and connection across communities worldwide.Lee shares insights into how storytelling can act as a powerful educational tool, especially for those on the margins of traditional systems and how creating spaces for people to share lived experiences can break down barriers, challenge assumptions, and foster real understanding.See more about N4 here in Ireland: https://narrative4.ie/and internationally: https://narrative4.com/national-schools-network/ N4 Training is available to all!Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com

In this special season finale, we look back on the powerful conversations we’ve had with educators, researchers, and changemakers working at the edges of the Irish education system.Expect to revisit key themes like home education, restorative practice, access to university, and the impact of social class — and hear what we’ve learned about the challenges and possibilities of creating a more inclusive and responsive education system.We’re so grateful to all our guests and listeners for joining us on this journey. This episode is a celebration of the voices, stories, and insights that have shaped Education on the Margins so far.Questions or comments?Let us know in the comments below or,Email us: edonthemargins@gmail.com