About

So what exactly is the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union?

ISSU is a not-for-profit, voluntary student rights’ organisation here to represent you, the second-level students of Ireland!

We are the national umbrella body for school Student Councils, aiming to represent and connect Irish second-level students the length and breadth of the country, ensuring that the voice of the Irish second-level student is heard and striving for innovation and democracy within the education system.

At ISSU we believe that Young People are not merely citizens in waiting. We deserve better, we deserve to be heard. we can and will contribute positively to society. It is so important that our voices, views and opinions are (i) heard (ii) listened to (iii) and most importantly respected. This is what ISSU is all about. We’re here for you.

Our main aims include:

• To provide training and development of second-level school Student Councils, in conjunction with relevant bodies.
• To develop policies on issues affecting Irish second-level students and bring the needs and rights of Students to the attention of the relevant authorities.
• To provide a transparent, democratic and reliable organisation.
• To work in collaboration with other educational institutions and bodies both in Ireland, and Europe.
• To work closely with educational curriculum policy makers and Teachers’ Unions to continually develop a transparent, fair and modern education system.
• And most importantly, to give Students a structured platform through which the voice of the Irish Second-level Students will be heard.

Remember we are here to represent and connect students across the country and so we would love to hear any feedback, which you may have. Feel free to drop us an email at any stage.

ISSU represents students at a national level and is affiliated to; the WHEEL, NYCI, Anna Lindh Foundation, Stand up for Education Alliance, Children’s Mental Health Coalition, and the Children’s Rights Alliance. On an international level ISSU works closely with OBESSU. ISSU also works with curriculum development teams and various advisory bodies.

Youth participation isn’t something we ‘do’ occasionally; it’s how we do everything. That’s ISSU for you.