Google for Education Reference Program Summit

The Google for Education Reference Program Summit took place in Dublin on the 24th, 25th and 26th March 2026 and what an action-packed event it was! Thanks to Gaz Lewis, Mmamotlhabi (Tlailane) François, Andrew Caffrey, Dr. Kristal Ayres, Luke Craig, Rachel Davey and all of the many Googlers and Canopy team members who worked tirelessly to create such an invigorating and inspiring event. Our Irish Google for Education Reference Schools were represented by Marion and Olivia from St. Mary’s Secondary School in Charleville and by Audrey and Elma from Holy Spirit Senior Primary School, Greenhills. Lorraine and Marguerite from Dominican College Griffith Avenue were in attendance as Ireland’s only Google for Education Premier Reference School.

A highlight from day one was the masterclass sessions on NotebookLM with Louise Cunningham, Gemini with Steve Downing and Google Workspace Studio with Andrew Caffrey. These innovations are a game-changer for reducing administrative burdens, allowing teachers to spend less time on paperwork ensuring more time making creative, personalised learning experiences for students.

Huge well done to Marion from St. Mary’s Secondary School, Charleville for sharing her brilliant insights into supporting EAL students using Google Workspace for Education

The second day of events began with a visit to Dominican College Griffith Avenue. A massive thank you to the wonderful hosts, Marguerite and Lorraine, and their colleagues for such a warm welcome. The visitors were blown away by the school’s trad band, they were treated to a crash course in Gaelic football and camogie and experienced a broad range of workshops on digital technology and leadership.

Day two also brought more opportunities for educators to explore AI tools and collaborate with peers to support and enhance their current practices. Piotr from Liceum Infotech, Białystok and Colin and Claire from Bridgend College shared their expertise providing much inspiration for everyone.

The final day brought Spark Sessions, further opportunities to share good practice in AI and the presentation of beautiful glass plaques to each Google Reference School in attendance. Events like this are a reminder of the great value of educator knowledge and the power of sharing that knowledge with one another.