CESS offers principals, individual schools, school networks, Trustees, Patrons and Management bodies the opportunity to contract in the services, energy and expertise needed to support and develop confident, articulate leadership in Catholic schools
ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES FACED BY TEACHERS LEADERS AND SCHOOLS
I was struck by the honesty and clarity of the findings of the Grace Report when they were released in 2024. At the event to formally publish the findings in All Hallows College a friend and colleague observed, '...finally, someone is saying the quiet stuff out loud'. It was a turning point as I felt that for the first time we had the freedom to speak honestly about our schools and the need to support teachers and especially school leaders.
And so as I built CESS during 2025-26 I took time to consult with former colleagues and others within the wider network of Catholic education. I listened attentively to school leaders and teachers, and sought out the views of parents and students in schools all over the country.
When it came to those leading in the schools five questions kept rising to the surface.
1
Where do I find the time for all of this?
With ever more pressure on the timetable and calendar coming from the Dept of Education and Youth, from incessant curricular change, from Patrons and Management Bodies, how do I make sure that matters relating to Faith/Ethos and the teaching of RE get the time they need.
2
How can I lead with integrity, conviction and confidence when my own foundations in faith are not solid?
3
How do I support my team effectively when many—sometimes most—are not familiar with or do not personally identify with the Catholic tradition?
4
How do we hold together a vibrant, confident Catholic identity while remaining fully inclusive, welcoming, and respectful of all faiths and none?
5
How can we strengthen and elevate the quality of teaching and learning in the Religious Education classroom?
At CESS, we understand these questions because we have grappled with them.
Our approach is practical, realistic and supportive. Here’s what some of those with whom we have worked say about CESS.
A thoroughly engaging, and enjoyable session which helped us reflect on our roles and how we translate ethos into daily practice.
An Assistant Principal (AP1)1 after a Leadership Team building session
Nicholas was a great support to our in-school management team and staff as we reviewed our RE policy and procedures. He is deeply passionate about RE and has made a significant contribution to the development of the faith life, ethos and culture of our school.
Principal of a Special School for students of 4-18yrs
My two one-hour sessions with Dr. Cuddihy were a great help to me preparing for my interview. His approachable and supportive style helped me to gain the confidence to get my application over the line.
A newly appointed Deputy Principal.
Whether you are a principal, deputy, an RE teacher, or a member of a wider school team, CESS can help you find effective solutions and to build a school culture that is faith-filled, inclusive, and educationally excellent. Click here to see what is on offer in 2026-27
Catholic Education Supports and Services offers practical solutions to those who are navigating through these challenges.
Whether you are a principal, deputy, an RE teacher, or a member of a wider school team, CESS can help you find effective solutions and to build a school culture that is faith-filled, inclusive, and educationally excellent.
Education Nation Podcast
Brought to you by the Irish Catholic newspaper and hosted by Nicky Cuddihy, Education Nation invites fascinating guests to talk about their own career journeys and their role within the Irish education system. You can listen back to the first series which included interviews with CEOs, Directors and school leaders from across the wide network of Catholic education.
With new episodes arriving every two weeks, we aim to broaden the conversation
help develop a better understanding of the complexity, richness, and diversity that make our education system so unique, and our schools and teachers so highly valued.
Click on the link below to hear the latest episode and to access the back catalogue