The School of Policy and Practice, DCU Institute of Education

The School of Policy and Practice in DCU Institute of Education (IoE) represents a unique, responsive and innovative space in education in Ireland. The School brings together leading academics and professionals whose expertise straddle primary, post-primary, further education and training, and education more broadly. The School under the leadership of Dr Elaine McDonald builds upon the national and international reputation of DCU through active engagement with policy and practice across various disciplines and through the pursuit of research excellence. In line with all Schools in DCU IoE and Schools across the university, the provision of a transformative student experience and the development of high quality student knowledge, skills and dispositions are priorities for the School of Policy and Practice. Collaborations and partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders form an important part of the School's commitment to DCU as a connected university, both internally and externally.

DCU School of Policy and Practice lecture series on Policy, Practice, and the Law in Education is an annual lecture event providing a public space for dialogue and the sharing of expertise on the selected theme. The lecture series is primarily an opportunity to explore the dynamic policy/practice space and interface between law and education. The inaugural lecture event was held in 2018 on the theme of Professional Practice and Regulation with keynotes shared by the judiciary, the legal profession, the Inspectorate, the Teaching Council, and members of the teaching profession.

The theme for the 2019 lecture event to be held on Thursday, 19 September 2019 will be Child Protection and Garda-Vetting in Education Contexts. The lecture event will comprise three keynotes followed by a panel discussion and represents a collaborative endeavour between the School of Policy and Practice and the School of Law and Government in DCU. It promises to be an engaging and enjoyable lecture event.