European Innovative Teaching Award for Kinsale Community School

Kinsale Community School was honoured at the European Innovative Teaching Award (EITA) Ceremony, held in Brussels on the 8th of December 2025, in recognition of its outstanding work on the Erasmus+ BEAG (Being European, Acting Globally) project. 

The award was presented under this year’s theme, Citizenship Education – participation in democratic life, common values and civic engagement, a theme that strongly reflects the ethos and educational priorities of the school. The BEAG project exemplifies this focus, supporting students in developing a strong sense of European identity, global awareness, and active citizenship. 

Mrs Houlihan attended the conference and award ceremony on behalf of the school, travelling to Brussels to accept the award and to participate in a series of events that brought together innovative educators from across Europe. The programme included opportunities for networking with other Erasmus+ schools, sharing best practice, and learning about creative approaches to teaching and learning in different European contexts. 

The Erasmus+ BEAG project was implemented by Aoife Houlihan and Fiona Hedderman, with the support and guidance of Erasmus+ Co-ordinator Máiread Dullea. Their collaborative work has had a significant impact on students, encouraging engagement with European values, democratic participation, and global responsibility. 

The European Innovative Teaching Awards celebrate excellence and innovation across education, with awards presented in the following categories: 

  • Early Childhood Education and Care 

  • School Education 

  • Vocational Education and Training 

  • Adult Education 

  • European Language Label 

Kinsale Community School’s recognition at this prestigious European event is a testament to the dedication of staff and students alike and highlights the school’s continued commitment to high-quality, values-based education. The award further reinforces the school’s role as a leader in citizenship education and Erasmus+ engagement, both nationally and across Europe. 

Gemma Cooper