Ireland’s Blue Star Programme has reached a major milestone, with the Taoiseach and Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence marking 16 years of helping pupils understand the European Union. The visit highlighted the programme’s growing role in connecting classroom learning with Ireland’s place in Europe.
Blue Star Programme celebrates 16 years
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister Thomas Byrne TD welcomed students and teachers from Donore National School in County Meath to Government Buildings on 30 September 2026. The event recognised the contribution of schools and teachers involved in the Blue Star Programme since its launch in 2011.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the initiative has introduced more than 220,000 students across over 1,300 schools to the work, values and institutions of the European Union.
Learning about Ireland’s role in Europe
The students took part in a photocall and a question-and-answer session with Minister Byrne. Discussion focused on Ireland’s role in the EU and its Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The programme uses creative projects to help primary school pupils explore:
- European history and geography
- The cultures and languages of EU member states
- The institutions and decision-making processes of the EU
- The opportunities and benefits linked to EU membership
Schools encouraged to join the 2026/2027 programme
Schools across Ireland have recently been invited to register for the Blue Star Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year. The initiative is designed to complement the national curriculum while giving children an early understanding of what it means to be European.
Minister Byrne paid tribute to teachers and school communities whose work has helped make the programme successful. He also encouraged more schools to participate, describing the enthusiasm and curiosity of pupils as an important part of the initiative’s impact.
The programme is managed by European Movement Ireland and supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Government funding provides €100,000 per year over three years, representing an investment in European education and public awareness among the next generation.
Why EU education matters
Projects delivered through the Blue Star Programme allow children to examine how European decisions can affect everyday life in Ireland. The approach combines research, creativity and teamwork, helping pupils connect international affairs with their local communities.
The initiative also supports wider civic education by encouraging students to ask questions about democracy, cooperation, culture and Ireland’s international relationships. This makes it relevant to schools seeking engaging ways to teach European citizenship.
What happens next?
With registration open for the 2026/2027 school year, the Blue Star Programme is set to continue bringing European issues into primary classrooms nationwide. Schools interested in taking part can find further information through the programme’s official website and European Movement Ireland.
Conclusion
The Blue Star Programme’s 16-year milestone underlines the value of introducing European affairs to children in an accessible and creative way. With more than 220,000 pupils reached, its continued expansion gives Irish schools an opportunity to build informed, curious and engaged young citizens.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
