About the course

The highly regarded Diploma in Education Law returns for its eighth year, covering key topics such as grievance and disciplinary procedures, admission policies, student conduct, child protection issues, school governance and litigation management.

This advanced-level course, which starts on 3 November, is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the complex legal topics that arise when advising on education law matters. This course begins with a general introduction to the often fascinating development of education law in Ireland, considering key constitutional and legislative provisions, before reflecting in more detail on the specific day-to-day issues that arise when advising on education law matters or, indeed, when acting as a decision-maker within a school.

Course modules

1. Employment law in the school context – part 1

2. Employment law in the school context – part 2

3. Admissions policies and student conduct

4. School structures and governance

5. Negligence and litigation management

6. Providing for special educational needs

7. Compliance matters and miscellaneous provisions

8. Higher, further, and adult education

What our past students say

"The Diploma in Education Law gives a thorough overview of the current legal challenges facing school management. The course, delivered by highly experienced legal practitioners is quite practical in nature, allowing participants to apply the law to the multitude of issues and situations that occur every day in the school context. Discussion and interaction between participants is encouraged in every session, thus allowing the learner to draw from a wealth of experiences and backgrounds. I found the lecturers and staff to be most approachable and helpful and I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending the course to anyone working in an education context."

Lourda Roseingrave, Ennis National School

Who should apply

This course is suitable for members and trainees who advise or wish to advise on education law matters, as well as key stakeholders and decision-makers within the education setting, including school principals, teachers, management organisations, trade unions and staff associations. 

• Learn more and apply for the Diploma in Education Law

For further information on the course and the application process visit the Diploma Centre pages on our website or contact Geraldine Rafferty, course leader, by emailing g.rafferty@lawsociety.ie.