Director/Colm O'Reilly: Director of the Centre for Talented Youth, which runs academic courses for high ability students aged between six and 16.
The CTYI identifies high ability students around Ireland through annual Talent Searches and organises Saturday classes, summer programmes, correspondence courses and Discovery Days for children of exceptional ability.
What's it like to work in the Irish Centre for Talented Youth?
We have more than 2,500 students annually taking assessments and courses with the centre. It's a fantastic experience to see talented students who are so keen to learn new things and to work with motivated staff who are so enthusiastic about the work that they do.
How does this job compare to your last job?
I've been here for more than 10 years now so I hardly remember my last job. I trained as a secondary school teacher and I have some good memories of that work but I'm really happy with this job.
What's the best part of your job?
I love meeting past students of the programme and they tell you how much they enjoyed their time here and have so many great memories of the course.
When you realise that you can have such a positive impact on people's lives that is a wonderful feeling.
What's the hardest part of your job?
We now have more than 100 academic courses per year and we employ more than 250 people on a part-time basis.
I like to know everyone who works for us personally, so as we get bigger and bigger this becomes more difficult. I have to say though that we are really lucky with our staff as they are magnificent.
Where's the best place in the Irish Centre for Talented Youth to retreat to when you need a break?
Well, I'm here 10 years and I haven't found one yet. If anyone else knows of one, please contact me!
Who's your education idol?
That would have to be my former boss Sheila Gilheany who used to be the director of CTYI. She made this programme the success it is today.
If you could change one thing about the Irish Centre for Talented Youth what would it be?
It's a great organisation but obviously financing a programme like this is a huge deal. You want to expand and allow more students to participate. If there are any possible donors out there to help us set up new courses we would love to hear from you!
What's unique about the Irish Centre for Talented Youth?
We are the only organisation to provide classes for high-ability students in Ireland. To see a six-year-old come to DCU on Saturday mornings and learn some computer programming is a pretty unique achievement.
