This open access, nonpartisan Handbook offers a thoughtful and scholarly exploration of the similarities and differences between the two education systems on the island of Ireland. Through a diverse range of chapters, it highlights how cross-border collaboration and shared learning can enhance educational practice across all levels. The contributions address pressing global issues in education, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence in schools, inclusive approaches to special needs education, increased diversity in classrooms and tackling underachievement. They also examine the opportunities and challenges of adopting policies and practices from other systems. Several chapters focus on themes particularly relevant to divided societies, including education in border regions, the relationship between church and state in schooling and the role of global citizenship education. Together, these insights aim to spark meaningful dialogue among students, educators, and researchers on the island of Ireland and internationally.

Martin Brown is Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Centre for Evaluation and Inspection at Dublin City University, Ireland.

Stephen Roulston is a research fellow at Ulster University, UK, having formerly been Course Director for the PGCE Geography and MEd with Specialisms programmes.