Transforming Lives and Communities: City of Dublin ETB Expo Showcases Impact and Innovation

City of Dublin Education and Training Board (ETB) recently hosted its Transforming Lives and Communities showcase event in Croke Park to celebrate the breadth, diversity, and impact of its work across Dublin city.

The event featured a wide range of engaging presentations and demonstrations offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience first-hand the excellence and innovation delivered by City of Dublin ETB schools, centres, and services. Importantly, the occasion also marked the official launch of the City of Dublin ETB Strategy Statement 2026–2030, outlining the ETB’s mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities for the years ahead.

Chief executive of City of Dublin ETB Dr Christy Duffy said:

“Our ‘Transforming Lives and Communities’ showcase expo brought to life the real impact of education and training across Dublin city. It showcased not only the innovation and excellence within our services, but also the dedication of our staff and the achievements of our learners. As we launch our Strategy Statement 2026–2030, we are more committed than ever to transforming lives and communities while responding to the evolving needs of Dublin city and being the education partner of first choice.”

From musical performances to showcases of participation in TEDx events, the expo highlighted creativity and achievement at every level, from school learners to further education and training, youth services, Music Generation and SUSI - each stand offered something new to explore.

It also highlighted our presence in primary schools through our community national schools, our new community special school, and as patrons of the school at the new Children’s Hospital.

City of Dublin FET College demonstrated cutting-edge media technology, including a live green screen and autocue setup for aspiring broadcasters. Elsewhere, the engineering and construction faculty stand impressed visitors with robotics projects, while interactive exhibits allowed attendees to take part in virtual interviews using VR headsets and experience gaming demonstrations focused on animation and design.

Health and wellbeing were a key focus, with attendees able to check their blood pressure and participate in fitness testing activities throughout the day.

The expo also provided valuable career-focused supports, including pop-up advice stands and information on how the ETB supports both learners and employers through upskilling and training opportunities.

The event was enriched by two insightful guest talks.

Education and Training Boards Ireland Educational Policy and Development Officers Niall Mulpeter, and Megan Whyte discussed ETB as school patrons alongside Principal of Cornamaddy Community National School Yvonne Naughton.

While author and psychotherapist Richie Sadlier’s inspiring talk on resilience completed the event.

This event represented an exciting chapter for City of Dublin ETB and provided a valuable opportunity to bring together partners and stakeholders in celebration of a shared commitment to education, training, and youth services across the city.