ITEN.IE - CPD in your own time, at your own pace!

Introducing ITEN.ie - A New Resource for Primary and Post-Primary Teachers and School Leaders 

Waterford Education Support Centre, as part of a collaboration with Kilkenny ESC, Limerick ESC, Wexford ESC, Cork ESC, West Cork ESC & Blackrock ESC is thrilled to announce the launch of the Innovative Teaching and Education Network (ITEN.ie), a new platform designed to support primary and post-primary teachers, as well as school leaders across Ireland. As part of the EduInnovate Programme, ITEN.ie aims to enhance and complement the existing support systems provided by Education Support Centres.

What is ITEN.ie?

ITEN.ie is a flexible, collaborative platform tailored to the needs of teachers. It focuses on bringing professional development into the digital age. This is particularly beneficial for teachers and school leaders in remote areas or smaller schools, where access to in-person training and support might be limited, and to those who have busy lives.

Key Features of ITEN.ie:

• Engage in CPD in your own time and at your own pace.
• Diverse Resources: From video tutorials to interactive modules, to additional teaching resources, find the support and information you need in a format that suits you best.
• Innovation and Inclusivity: Designed to be accessible and user-friendly, ensuring all teachers, regardless of location or technical expertise, can benefit from its offerings.

Why ITEN.ie?

ITEN.ie adds a valuable new dimension to the support available for educators, aligning with national education priorities such as those outlined in the LAOS 2022 framework.

Waterford Education Support Centre is proud to be part of this collaboration and invite you to explore ITEN.ie and join us in this exciting new venture. By participating, you can expand your professional horizons, connect with a wider community of educators, and enhance your teaching practice.

For more information, please visit https://iten.ie

Courses available on ITEN 2024

1.           SEN Assessment in Primary Schools - Tutor: Siobhán Tobin

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the various Special Education Needs(SEN) assessments and programmes available in primary schools. It is designed for educators, administrators, and support staff who are involved in the education and development of students with special needs.

2.           ABAR (Anti-Bias Anti-Racism) - Tutor: Brianna Fitzsimons

This course equips educators with the knowledge and tools to address and dismantle bias and racism in the classroom. Through self-reflection, discussion, and practical strategies, participants will learn how to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment that celebrates diversity and ensures every student feels valued and respected.

3.           EAL Assessment in Primary School - Tutor: Aoife Merrins-Gallagher

The "EAL Assessment in Primary School" course provides practical guidelines for assessing English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners. It unpacks the Primary School Assessment Kit (PSAK) and provides detailed instructions for administering its listening, speaking, reading, and writing assessments. It also offers alternative EAL assessment resources to further complement PSAK interpretation.

4.     EAL Planning & Strategies across the school - Tutor: Aoife Merrins-Gallagher

This course provides practical guidance and strategies for primary teachers of EAL learners to include EAL planning, whole-school approaches to EAL support, effective strategies for junior and senior primary classrooms, recommended apps & websites and tips to enhance parental involvement. A wide range of resources are shared to ensure easy transfer of skills from course to practice.

5.           Getting Started with STEAM - Tutor: Enda Roberts

This course provides practical guidance and activities to support primary schools in getting started with STEAM.

6.           Google Classroom - Tutor: Mark Delahunty

An overview and guide to using Google Classroom effectively in your school. Practical guidelines to get you started with Google Tools. 

7.           Introduction to Mindfulness - Tutor: Gráinne Mulcahy

"Learn simple mindfulness techniques to help manage stress, stay focused, and create a calm classroom vibe. This course gives you practical tools to support your own well-being while helping your students feel more relaxed and ready to learn."

8.           Using AI to Support the PMC

This course explores how teachers can use AI to assist with implementing and embedding the new Primary Math Curriculum. It offers practical strategies for using AI to save time, focusing on planning and resource creation.

9.           The Five Ways to Wellbeing - Tutor: Stephen Dargan

A series of 5 workshops - "5 Ways to Wellbeing," where we'll explore practical strategies to enhance your everyday life through engaging resources and impactful exercises.

• Module 1 Connect: Module 1 will explore the critical role of connecting with others for our wellbeing. It will highlight how fostering a sense of belonging, reducing stress, increasing happiness, and providing emotional support enhances both mental and physical health.
• Module 2: Get Active: This module covers the physical and mental benefits of exercise, practical ways to integrate it into your routine, and resources to enhance your overall wellbeing.
• Module 3: Take Notice: In this module, we delve into the importance of being present and mindful in our daily lives. You'll explore how distractions impact our ability to focus and learn the benefits of monotasking over multitasking. We'll discuss the value of living in the present moment to reduce anxiety and regret associated with dwelling on the past or future. Through practical exercises and insights from mindfulness experts, you'll discover techniques to enhance your awareness and presence. Additionally, you'll learn about the concept of Flow and its significance in achieving a state of optimal engagement. By the end of this module, you'll have a deeper understanding of how taking notice and being present can significantly improve your wellbeing.
• Module 4: Keep Learning: This module explores the benefits of continual learning.  The module delves into the physiological and psychological benefits of lifelong learning, including improved neuroplasticity, stress reduction, and increased happiness. Practical exercises and strategies will help you choose new skills to learn, visualise your progress, and create a detailed plan. Additionally, you'll discover how to make learning enjoyable through gamification. By the end of this module, you'll be equipped with tools and insights to live a more mindful, enriched, and fulfilling life.
• Module 5: Give: This module explores the transformative effects of gratitude and giving on personal wellbeing and happiness. Learn how expressing gratitude and performing acts of kindness can enhance mental and physical health, reduce stress, and foster optimism. Practical exercises include writing letters of appreciation, creating a gratitude journal, and engaging in prosocial behaviours. Insights from research and TED Talk recommendations, provide a deeper understanding of the benefits.