Ireland’s Department of Education and Youth published guidance on Artificial Intelligence in Schools for the 2025-2026 academic year, aimed at supporting teachers and school leaders in planning for AI integration in teaching and learning. The guidance addresses safe, ethical, and appropriate use of AI tools in educational settings.
The AI Advisory Council has separately recommended that the government lead development of AI literacy training for educators at all levels and publish guidelines for generative AI tools across all education levels.
The IMF’s January 2026 Skill Readiness Index ranked Ireland first globally as the country best positioned to equip its workforce for an AI-driven economy, citing strategic investment in third-level education, advanced research, and applied skills programmes.
Who it affects: Teachers and school leaders across Irish primary and post-primary schools.
What is notably missing: The guidance is non-binding; schools are not required to implement it. No mandatory teacher training standard is set. The AI Advisory Council’s recommendations have not yet been enacted as statutory obligations.