FAQs

Help your students shine with SummerCPD!

Summercpd logo

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the courses entitle me to EPV 'course days'?

Yes, successful completion of any of our courses will entitle you to a Certificate from the Department of Education and Skills, which can be used for three EPV days in the following academic year.

 

When can I complete the course?

All of our courses are available online from 1st-28th July 2025. Courses must be fully completed within this time frame.

 

Is there specific times or dates I must log in?

No, the courses are specifically designed for you to digest at your own pace and fit into whatever schedule suits you. Once the course begins, you can complete at any time within the given dates. You can log in across devices and times in line with your own personal availability.

 

 

How long does it take to complete the course?

The courses are designed with 10 hours of online lectures/material and 10 hours of self-directed recommended reading and reflective exercises.

 

 

 

Is the course fully online?

Yes, all of the courses are completely online, so they can be comfortably accessed anywhere you have an internet connection and a suitable device (smartphone/tablet/computer).

 

 

 

 

How do the course bundles work?

Course bundles are a great value way for a person to complete multiple summer courses. Course bundles are available for one person and individual use only. Shortly after purchasing a bundle, you will receive an email asking you which 2 or 3 courses you would like to undertake. After receiving your response we will enrol you in the appropriate courses. If you have not recieved this email or have further queries email contactsummercpd@gmail.com

 

 

 

What type of assignments will I have to do?

In line with Department of Education criteria on each course you will need to complete assignments and respond to a discussion forum within each module. Although each course is different, Summer CPD has committed to providing participants with either a choice of topic (e.g. 2 question options) or response format (e.g. use of written text, audio/voice notes, etc.) for each assignment. Participants will also contribute two posts to discussion forums in each module and complete a reflective assignment summarising their learning in the course.

 

 

 

 

 

Do I need a guitar for the guitar course?

Yes, you will need access to a guitar for this course. Any regular 6-string guitar will be suitable (electric or acoustic, nylon strings or metal strings, full size or 3/4 size). Bass Guitars and Ukeleles are not suitable.

If you are just testing the waters and do not want to purchase your own instrument, perhaps ask a friend/relative/neighbour for a loan of theirs? Many households have a guitar tucked away gathering dust, and this would be a perfect opportunity to give those instruments a new lease of life!

Do I need a Rubik's cube for the Rubik's Resilience course?

Yes you will need access to a physical Rubik’s cube for this course. Any regular Rubik’s cube will be suitable and these are widely available to purchase in many toy, book and discount stores. 

Do I need to be in a leadership position to do the middle leadership course?

No, you do not need to be currently in a recognised leadership role in your school. This course is perfect for both current leaders and aspiring leaders. It aims to give a solid foundation and transferrable knowledge and skills to help any teacher improve their leadership potential.

 

Do I need to be in a DEIS school to do the DEIS course?

No, you do not need to be currently working in a DEIS school to do this course, although it does focus on some features that are only present in DEIS Urban schools. This course would be suitable for any teacher or principal who may be applying for a job in a DEIS school in the future, any teacher or principal who works in a school with disadvantaged pupils or anyone who is curious about how DEIS schools differ from other mainstream schools in Ireland.

 

 

Are there course packages for schools?

Course packages are a great option for multiple teachers from the same school to complete summer courses with SummerCPD at a discounted rate. Course packages are available for schools with a minimum of 5 teachers signing up, where a school is purchasing the teachers summer courses. This is a fantastic way to incentivise professional development and upskilling in a school. Contact us about purchasing a package for your school to get a quote.

 

What is the refund policy?

Full refunds are available prior to the course beginning if you change your mind or are no longer able to complete the course. No refunds are available after the course start date.

 

 

Our CPD Courses

What Teachers Say About Our CPD Courses

“The content of the course is of a high quality and offers a very good introduction to leadership theory and practical application in the Irish context. The resources provided are relevant, up-to-date and draw on the work of recognised experts, the support services and Department of Education policy”

5

“Just got a permanent position yesterday and I’m sure some of the info covered in the course got me over the line in the interview! Thank you”

5

“All in all, probably the best online course I have ever participated in and I would have no hesitation in doing a similar course again or recommending this one.”

5

“All in all I just cannot fault this course, the pace, the structure and the content was absolutely exceptional. I will be telling all of my colleagues about it. Thank you so much.”

5

“I have taken so much from this course. It really has been so valuable to me. I have recently secured an AP post and now feel more confident and competent going into my new role in September.”

5

“I loved the format of the course and it helped me greatly to plan my monthly lessons. Having a structure and a better focus has re-awakened my enthusiasm.”

5

“I loved the option of submitting oral assessment material – very inclusive! Well done!”

5

“I’m looking forward to using the ideas and knowledge which I ‘ve learned from the videos/podcasts/readings/powerpoints/course tutor and also from the participants!”

5

“Fantastic course with excellent information presented in a variety of engaging ways. The discussion forums and assignments were practical and thought provoking and the resources practical and ready to use.”

5