13th November 2025, Dublin, Ireland
On the 13th of November 2025, curriculum experts, policymakers and educators from across Europe gathered at the Clock Tower in Dublin for the annual CIDREE Conference, hosted this year by Ireland’s National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). The theme, “Conducting Curriculum Review: Developing curriculum in and for a changing world”, invited participants to explore how countries are shaping and reshaping curricula to respond to evolving societal, economic and educational needs.
Exploring curriculum review in a changing world
In welcoming delegates, Ms Yvonne Keating, Chief Inspector at the Department of Education and Youth, set the tone for a reflective and forward-looking day, followed by introductory remarks from Ms Arlene Forster, CEO of the NCCA and incoming CIDREE President.
The conference theme emphasised the complexity of conducting curriculum review in dynamic contexts. As outlined in the programme, the intention was to “provide a space for educators, policymakers and stakeholders… to consider and appreciate the complexities and opportunities offered through a range of models and approaches to conducting curriculum review”.
Keynotes: Perspectives on evolution, voice and future directions
The first keynote, delivered jointly by Prof Harold Hislop and Dr Majella Dempsey, explored the evolution of curriculum review and development in Ireland, tracing shifts in policy, participation and system design over time.
A short film on child and student voice in curriculum development introduced the next keynote address by Mr Jack McGinn and Prof Emer Ring. Their session, “Why Voice Matters: Shared Perspectives from Research and Practice”, emphasised the centrality of learner experiences in shaping meaningful curriculum change.
After lunch, Ms Bernie McNally, Secretary General of the Department of Education and Youth, offered reflections on Ireland’s system-wide reform efforts. This was followed by a keynote from Dr Suzanne Dillon on the OECD’s Future of Education 2040 project, focusing on closing the design-implementation loop and bridging the gap between policy intention and practice.
Introducing the CIDREE Yearbook 2025
A highlight of the afternoon was the introduction to the 2025 CIDREE Yearbook by CIDREE President Ms Ingrid Vanhoren, followed by editorial commentary from Mr John Hammond and Dr Jacqueline Fallon. This year’s Yearbook brings together articles from eleven member countries, offering insights into diverse approaches to curriculum review—ranging from systematic evaluation and reform cycles to the structures, stakeholders and decision-making dynamics that shape curriculum development.
As noted in the programme, the Yearbook “will not only serve as a repository of knowledge but also act as a catalyst for informed dialogue and strategic planning” well beyond the conference itself.
To read the 2025 CIDREE Yearbook, visit https://www.cidree.org/cidree_yearbook/yearbook-2025/
Panel discussion: Multiple perspectives on curriculum review
The panel discussion brought together a wide range of voices, chaired by Mr Seán Ó Foghlú, NCCA Chairperson. Panellists included Dr Suzanne Dillon, Prof Teresa O’Doherty, Ms Hedda Birgitte Huse, Mr Preston Ó Caoimh, Mr Dalton Tattan and Dr Thomas Walsh. Their contributions illuminated both shared challenges and unique national experiences, particularly around student voice, curriculum coherence, implementation supports and the ongoing role of research in informing policy and practice.
Closing moments
The day concluded with the official launch of the CIDREE Yearbook 2025 and a group photograph, before closing remarks from CIDREE President, Ms Ingrid Vanhoren.
A space for shared learning and collaboration
As in previous years, the CIDREE Conference 2025 proved to be an invaluable opportunity for knowledge exchange, reflective dialogue and collaborative learning. Through thoughtful presentations, rich panel discussions and the launch of a Yearbook centred on curriculum review, participants left with renewed insight into how education systems are navigating change, and how collaborative networks like CIDREE continue to support this essential work.
Thank you to all who contributed to making the 2025 conference in Dublin a thought-provoking and productive event.
