The role of the Irish primary principal has evolved beyond recognition in the last few decades. Pressure continues to increase on the modern principal. However, there may be positive lenses through which we can view the role of the primary principal despite the influences of the market and data analytics.

Facilitator: Dr. Gerard McHugh

Gerard McHugh is a native of Ballintubber, Co. Mayo. He qualified from St. Patrick’s College of Education in Drumcondra in 1974 and taught in primary schools in Dublin; Inchicore, Bayside, Rush and Ladyswell before becoming Principal of San Carlo Senior School, Leixlip Co. Kildare in 1985. Between September 2001 and October 2018 he was Director of Dublin West Education Centre and was involved in the management of national support services reaching every primary and post primary teacher in Ireland.

Gerard holds a Bachelor of Arts and Higher Diploma in Education from University College Dublin. He was awarded a first class Honours Masters in Education by University College Galway and a Doctorate of Education by Dublin City University. He has lectured widely to professional organisations in Ireland and in Europe on issues such as the role of the principal teacher, leadership, educational management, continuing professional development, and European cooperation in education. He has led significant international projects.