Inside the Infant Classroom – Getting ready for a new year - 26LCSP62 (Facilitator Deirdre O’Toole)

Join us for a practical webinar designed specifically for teachers of Junior and Senior Infants as you prepare for the new school year. This session will walk you through essential classroom routines, organisation tips, playful approaches, and engaging activities for the first day and beyond to set your year up for success. Perfect for both new and experienced teachers, this session will help you create a smooth, structured, and nurturing start for your young learners.

Bio - Deirdre O’Toole is a primary teacher and PhD candidate at Mary Immaculate College, where her research focuses on early literacy acquisition. She delivers professional development for primary teachers across Ireland, supporting evidence-informed approaches to literacy instruction. Deirdre runs Playful Classroom, providing practical, research-based teaching resources and training. She is also the founder of the Science of Reading Discussion for Irish Teachers Facebook group and Right to Read Ireland, advocating for high-quality literacy education for all children.

Learning Outcomes - 

• Teachers will develop a comprehensive understanding of how to plan, organise and structure an effective infant classroom environment at the start of the school year.
• Participants will gain the knowledge and skills to establish consistent routines, transitions and behaviour expectations that support young learners.
• Teachers will be equipped to implement developmentally appropriate practices that support pupils’ social, emotional and academic adjustment.
• Through engaging in this webinar, teachers will be prepared to create an inclusive, engaging and wellmanaged learning environment for infant classes.