Eva Kealy, a dedicated primary educator and Assistant Principal, recently graduated with first-class honours from the Masters in Inclusive and Special Education (MAISE), a part-time and flexible joint programme from ICEP Europe and Hibernia College. Eva tells us about her journey here.
Discovering My Passion for Inclusive Education
I’ve always been interested in primary teaching, but it wasn’t until I worked with Carlow Sports Partnership—running camps and activities for children with additional needs—that I realized my passion for special education. I knew I wanted to advocate for these children, which led me to look into master’s programmes. That’s when I came across this flexible MAISE programme with Hibernia and ICEP.
I currently work in a rural primary school with three ASD classes, and I also hold an Assistant Principal role. I oversee science, maths, wellbeing, and the Student Council. A huge part of my job is advocating for all students, especially those in our ASD classes, or any child who may need additional support.
Why I Chose the Masters in Inclusive and Special Education
My schedule is busy—I play football and rugby, and I’m the PRO for my local GAA club—so flexibility was crucial. The online format of the MAISE programme made it manageable. Lectures were every fortnight, with optional drop-in clinics in between. It allowed me to balance full-time teaching and leadership responsibilities with my studies.
The programme itself was flexible, well-structured, and extremely relevant. The content was research-based and practical, and the hands-on approach meant I could apply what I learned directly in the classroom. Even though the programme is online, the support from tutors and the learning community was fantastic. I made friends for life with my cohort, despite meeting most of them only a couple of times in person.
Applying What I Learned
I completed modules in Dyslexia, Autism, and Challenging Behaviours alongside core studies. Initially, my focus was on children with autism, but when it came to my thesis, I worked with my fifth-class mainstream students. I designed a six-week intensive programme for four students who were struggling with literacy—not necessarily diagnosed with dyslexia—allowing me to apply inclusive strategies directly in my classroom.
Having the support of my principal throughout my studies and research was invaluable. I was open and honest about what I needed, which helped me stay on track and successfully complete the programme.
Skills I Gained and How They Help My Career
The Masters programme gave me in-depth knowledge of inclusive education practices and frameworks like Universal Design for Learning (UDL). It strengthened my leadership and collaboration skills and helped me implement inclusive strategies across whole-school initiatives like Wellbeing, STEAM, and the Student Council.
I also gained confidence as an advocate for equity and developed research and reflective skills that inform both my teaching and school-wide decision-making.
Advice for Other Students
My advice is to reach out and engage with everyone around you—family, friends, colleagues, principals, tutors. Be open about your needs and accept support when it’s offered. The programme is manageable, flexible, and incredibly rewarding. With the right planning, it can fit around even a very busy life.
Looking Ahead
Since completing my MAISE, I’m excited to support future students, ideally as a tutor or mentor at Hibernia College. I also hope to take on a role as an educational inspector or advisor, helping schools create inclusive environments where every student can succeed.
Completing this programme has been a practical, empowering, and life-changing experience. It has deepened my understanding of inclusive education, strengthened my leadership, and given me the tools to make a real difference for students in every classroom.
If you want to make a real impact in this area, explore the MA in Inclusive & Special Education from ICEP Europe and Hibernia College. Applications are now open for January 2026 and you can register for an upcoming webinar for more info.