Home News Community Students at Laois secondary school go global with Irish and English podcasting

Students at Laois secondary school go global with Irish and English podcasting

Dunamase College/Coláiste Dhún Másc continues to lead the way in innovative teaching, digital creativity and student voice with its rapidly expanding bilingual podcasting programme.

As one of Ireland’s recognised European Digital Schools and a fully one-to-one iPad digital learning school, Dunamase College is uniquely positioned to give students real-world opportunities in media, broadcasting and digital storytelling.

This year, the school’s GaelTalkers Podcasting Team has reached remarkable heights.

Students conducted a captivating interview with Hollywood actor Robert Sheehan, who spoke about his journey from Portlaoise to international fame.

They also recorded a powerful Irish-language conversation with Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, esteemed RTÉ broadcaster, showcasing not only the students’ linguistic skill but also their confidence as Gaeilge.

The English-language podcasting team has also excelled, securing the rare privilege of interviewing local TDs on topics that matter to young people, education, community, wellbeing, and the future of Ireland.

These experiences have strengthened students’ research, journalistic and communication skills, giving them a voice in real democratic dialogue.

All Dunamase College podcasts are proudly available to the public on Spotify and SoundCloud, where new episodes are added throughout the year. (Search: The Dunamase Diaries on Spotify or The Gaeltalkers on Soundcloud.)

Podcasting has become one of the school’s most distinctive showcases of creativity, digital competence and learner agency.

Principal Dympna Kelly notes: “As a European Digital School with one-to-one iPads, Dunamase College is committed to educating students for their future, not our past.

“Digital creativity, communication and forward-thinking learning experiences like podcasting ensure our students are prepared to thrive in a changing world.”

And there’s more to come. The English-language podcasting team has already begun planning something very exciting for the New Year, promising fresh voices, new stories and a project that will once again shine a spotlight on Dunamase College’s innovation and ambition.

With Hollywood actors, RTÉ personalities and national politicians already featured, one thing is certain, the voices of Dunamase College are only getting louder.

Check out The Gaeltalkers on https://on.soundcloud.com/ne8e6VFl5N9boOx14n

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