Minister McEntee launches All-Island Schools’ History Competition

Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee, has today officially launched the All-Island Schools’ History Competition.

The competition, open to learners at both primary and post-primary levels, as well as other educational settings in Ireland and Northern Ireland, aims to connect historical events with contemporary themes, highlight forgotten local histories and under-represented histories, and encourage participation from across the island of Ireland. These objectives are consistent with the objectives of the Government’s Shared Island Initiative.

All those taking part are invited to explore how important events, people and stories from the past are remembered today. Entries are encouraged to engage with the theme in creative, dynamic formats that bring the past to life. These may include films, artwork, podcasts or interactive writing.

Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee said: “During my visits to schools across the country, I get a fantastic opportunity to witness first-hand the incredible work our pupils and students do to bring history to life in our classrooms. Capturing and preserving the stories of the past helps inform, inspire and empower us all in today’s world and as we collectively look forward to the future.

“I am delighted to be launching today the 2025 All-Island Schools’ History Competition. I encourage all pupils and students interested in taking part to think big, be curious and express yourselves by thinking creatively around how you present your entries. Best of luck!”

This competition is organised by the Department of Education and Youth in partnership with Frances Moss, Director, Drumcondra Education Support Centre and Dr Caitríona Ní Cassaithe, Assistant Professor in History Education in the Institute of Education, Dublin City University.

Frances Moss said: “This competition reflects our commitment to helping students think like historians at every stage of their education. Through engaging with the nature of history itself by evaluating evidence, weighing competing interpretations and reflecting on how the past shapes the present, it encourages young people to develop the skills, judgement and understanding that underpin historical thinking”.

Dr Caitríona Ní Cassaithe said: “This competition is a wonderful opportunity for learners across the island to see history not just as a series of dates and events but as a powerful way of understanding the present. By encouraging creative approaches, we hope young people will engage with inclusive narratives, ask deeper questions and find fresh and meaningful ways to connect the past with the issues that matter in their lives today.”

The History Competition is open to all learners in primary and post-primary schools in Ireland and Northern Ireland, as well as to those in other educational settings. It is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport; An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta; and the Heritage Council. The closing date for the competition is 5pm Friday 5 December with an awards event set to take place in January.

ENDS