Kilkenny school principal conferred with Doctorate from Dublin City University
Congratulations are in order for a Kilkenny woman who has just been graduated from Dublin City University with a Doctorate of Education .
On Friday, October 23, 2026 Helen McTighe, native of Mooncoin, Co Kilkenny, graduated from Dublin City University with a Doctorate of Education following a successful defence her thesis: “An exploration of systems used by school leaders to monitor student progress and development in post-primary schools in Ireland.”
Co-supervised by Dr. Shivaun O’ Brien and Professor Gerry McNamara, Helen’s research examines monitoring practices across eight Irish post-primary schools. Against the backdrop of increasing educational datafication, the study explores the systems schools use to monitor student progress and development and how they use the resulting data.
Dr. Shivaun O’ Brien describes the following: “Helen’s findings illuminate the complex relationship between standardised and non-standardised measures, data use and holistic professional judgement. They demonstrate that monitoring is no longer simply an administrative task: it is a strategic leadership practice that can guide school improvement, promote equity and strengthen student outcomes.
“The study also highlights the importance of using data thoughtfully to support student agency and help every learner reach their potential. As the first Irish study of its kind, it offers valuable insights for school leaders, teachers, policymakers and school evaluators.”
Currently working in the role of principal in Scoil Mhuire, Carrick-on-Suir, Helen is delighted to be able to bring her research and practice together to ensure that students in her school are supported by its dynamic staff who work collaboratively to ensure that every student achieves their potential. Helen formerly worked as principal at Scoil Aireagail in Ballyhale.