Ireland’s Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Literacy Strategy 2024-2033: A Vision for the Future

Ireland is taking significant strides in education with the launch of the "Ireland’s Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Literacy Strategy 2024-2033." This comprehensive strategy, developed by the Department of Education, sets out a clear vision to support all children and young adults in developing essential skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The strategy emphasizes the interconnectedness of literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy, recognizing their critical role in personal, educational, and societal success.

Building on Success

The new strategy builds on the achievements of the previous strategy, "Literacy and Numeracy for Learning and Life: The National Strategy to Improve Literacy and Numeracy among Children and Young People 2011-2020." It reflects the significant advancements in the education system over the past decade, including curriculum reforms, enhanced teacher education, and increased recognition of early childhood education's importance.

Key Objectives

The strategy outlines objectives across five key pillars:

1. Enabling Parents and Communities: Empowering parents and communities to support learners' literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy development.
2. Supporting Professional Practice: Providing robust support and continuous professional learning for early years educators, childminders, and teachers.
3. Supporting Leadership: Empowering leaders in early learning and care and in the school system to drive positive change and innovation.
4. Improving Learner Experience: Enhancing curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment to ensure continuity and progression in learners' development.
5. Supporting Diverse Learners: Focusing on inclusive education to improve outcomes for all learners, recognizing their unique strengths and challenges.

Early Intervention and Lifelong Learning

A cornerstone of the strategy is the emphasis on early intervention. Recognizing that early childhood experiences lay the foundation for lifelong learning, the strategy prioritizes high-quality early learning and care (ELC). It aims to provide tailored interventions at primary and post-primary levels to support literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy skill development throughout a learner's educational journey.

Embracing Digital Literacy

In today’s digital age, digital literacy is more important than ever. The strategy prioritizes digital literacy, equipping learners with the skills to navigate and participate fully in a digital world. This includes understanding digital citizenship, data privacy, and online safety, as well as fostering creativity and critical thinking through the use of technology.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Successful implementation of the strategy relies on collaboration among various stakeholders, including educators, parents, communities, and policymakers. The strategy highlights the importance of community support in promoting literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy development.

Measuring Success

The strategy includes a comprehensive approach to evaluating and monitoring progress. Success will be measured through various indicators, including improved student performance in literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy assessments, increased engagement with educational activities, and positive feedback from the school community.

A Vision for the Future

As we look ahead to the next decade, the "Ireland’s Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Literacy Strategy 2024-2033" represents a commitment to maintaining and building on the progress made over the past decade. By equipping learners with essential skills and fostering a love for lifelong learning, the strategy aims to create a brighter future for all.

For more detailed information, you can read the full strategy document here.

Join us in supporting this vital initiative to empower every learner in Ireland to reach their full potential and thrive in an ever-changing world.