Tipp educators and youth workers invited to Limerick empathy education ‘mini-conference’ on Thursday

Narrative 4 is thrilled to announce the upcoming story exchange mini-conference taking place this coming Thursday, March 28th at its community space on 58 O’Connell St, Limerick. This two-and-a-half-hour event will bring together experts in the field of social and emotional learning, and the Narrative 4 facilitator network. We welcome Tipperary educators, youth workers, community workers, and anyone interested in learning more about this area of work.

Guest speakers include Dr. Jennifer McMahon, Head of the Department of Educational Psychology, Inclusive and Special Education at Mary Immaculate College; Ann Tomany, Deputy Head Teacher at Wheatfield Prison, and Lee Keylock, Head of Global Programmes and Training at Narrative 4. Participants will also hear from Story Exchange facilitator Samantha Hallows, who is a primary school teacher and tutor at DCU and Marino College. Samantha runs a story-based YouTube channel called ‘Super Shed Stories’ that offers support and guidance to those navigating the ever-changing landscape of education.

Speaking in advance of the conference, Rachel Gleeson, Programme Manager at Narrative 4, said:

“It’s clear, given the scale of division we see around us, why empathy is such an important quality. It’s also a skill and something that can be taught, which is why we’re so passionate about it. Our mini conference will give people an opportunity to hear about some of the wonderful projects being carried out around the country by Narrative 4 facilitators. We will also have experts in the field of social and emotional learning speaking about the importance of teaching these vital life skills to young people. The conference is a great chance for people interested in educational and social development to step back, reflect, exchange ideas and be inspired by some of the leading experts in the field.”

Narrative 4 is a not-for-profit organisation that harnesses the power of stories and storytelling to break down barriers in society and create empathy and understanding towards others. It trains educators, youth, health, and community workers in facilitation skills that allow them to bring evidence-based empathy programmes into their work.

The event is open to members of the community interested in learning more about the work carried out by Narrative 4. Registration is €20 or €10 to existing Narrative 4 facilitators or those requiring a bursary place. Register by emailing rachel@narrative4.ie or via Narrative 4 Ireland on Eventbrite.ie.