Michael Wride, Transformative Pedagogies Lead, CTL, UL
In January 2026, fifty-six Instructors from the Garda College graduated with the UL Professional Diploma in Teaching, Learning and Scholarship, which was facilitated by the Centre for Transformative Learning at the University of Limerick.
The instructors, who completed the programme, teach on the BA in Applied Policing, and contribute to the continuing professional development of Gardaí.
The course is designed to develop high level, evidence-based competence in teaching and learning, enabling the instructors to build on their prior professional experience, i.e. from ‘boots on the ground’ Gardaí to instructors with grounding in teaching and learning theories underpinned by relevant scholarship and exemplars of good practice.
Regarding the programme, Superintendent Kieran Ruane, Director of Foundation Training at Garda College said:
“The programme has been invaluable in building on current best practice and expertise at Garda College in enhancing vital key skills amongst our instructors, including communication skills, confidence and competence in writing, establishing rapport among students and peers, exercising effective pedagogical and supervision skills and delivering feedback in both practice and teaching settings. It has also provided a structured platform for the development and acceleration of complex practice skills at the early stage of the career of the instructor. Finally, the focus on creating a supportive, challenging, highly trusted network of colleagues to provide longer term peer support beyond the duration of the programme will be invaluable going forward.”
The learning gained from the course will be highly beneficial for the ongoing development of teaching excellence at the Garda College.
