About the National Parents Council
Supporting Parents. Supporting Children. Building Better Futures Together.
Our Vision
Every parent actively involved and empowered, making a difference in their child's educational journey.
Who We Are
The National Parents Council (#NPC) is the independent, parent‑led organisation that champions the rights, voices and hopes of families in every corner of Ireland.
Since 1985 we’ve worked hand‑in‑hand with parents, schools and policymakers to build an education system where every child, from playgroup to Junior Infants all the way to Leaving Cert, feels valued, included and supported.
We run a confidential helpline staffed by experienced advisers, deliver free workshops on everything from Internet Safety to exam stress, and train Parent Associations so they can drive positive change in their own schools. Our research and advocacy have helped shape national policies on class size, special‑needs supports, anti‑bullying measures and free schoolbooks.
Whether you need quick advice, practical resources or a platform to make your voice heard, #NPC is here to back you all the way.
Our Mission
NPC exists to support and empower all parents to engage meaningfully in their children's education. We achieve this by:
Amplifying parent voices to influence national education policy and practice
Representing Parents
Providing expert advice, training, and resources to help parents confidently support their children’s learning and well-being.
Empowering Families
Encouraging parents to participate actively in schools, Parent Associations, and wider education communities.
Promoting Participation
Our Values
Our work is guided by these core values
We support all parents, respecting diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs.
Inclusivity
We provide parents with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to advocate effectively for their children.
Empowerment
We actively partner with parents, schools, and organisations to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
Collaboration
We advocate with transparency, honesty, and accountability in everything we do.
Integrity
Representation and Advocacy
NPC engages directly with policymakers, government departments, educational bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure that parents’ views shape education policy in Ireland.
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Parent Training and Workshops
We offer accessible, practical training sessions (both in-person and online) covering essential topics like internet safety, mental health and resilience, special education supports, establishing effective Parent Associations, and much more
Building Parent Networks
NPC facilitates connections between parents and Parent Associations nationwide, creating a strong, inclusive community where ideas, challenges, and solutions are shared and valued.
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Helpline Support
Our dedicated helpline provides confidential, expert advice and information to parents seeking help on education-related issues, empowering parents with the information they need when they need it most.
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What We Do
We work directly with thousands of parents and families each year, offering practical advice, supportive training, and opportunities for involvement at local, regional, and national levels. Our core activities include:
Governance & Structure
NPC is governed by a volunteer Board made up of parent representatives elected from our member Parent Associations. Our professional staff team manages daily operations, training programmes, advocacy, and parent support services. NPC operates transparently and responsibly, and our strategic decisions are guided by input from our members and stakeholders.
Annual Report
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10,000+ parents supported annually via our Helpline
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Hundreds of Parent Associations trained each year
Influencing national policy through direct parent input
Our Impact
Each year, NPC consults with thousands of parents, children and young people across Ireland getting their views on education related topics. These views are shared with government departments and other education partners, and have influenced national education policies, improved parent-school relationships, and promoted better educational outcomes for children and young people nationwide.
Sarah, Parent, Galway
“NPC has truly empowered me—I now feel confident advocating for my child at school.”
Sinéad, Parent, Wicklow
“I rang the NPC Helpline when we faced an issue at our child’s school, and they guided us clearly and compassionately. It made all the difference.”
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Cormac, Parent Association Member, Cork
“NPC’s training sessions were incredibly helpful. Our Parent Association is stronger than ever.”
Eoin, Parent Association Member, Meath
“Being involved with NPC opened up valuable opportunities to connect with other parents, share experiences, and feel part of something bigger. I highly recommend joining.”
What Parents Say
Need Help or More Information?
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, need support, or want to get involved, please contact us
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📧 Email: info@npc.ie
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📱 Phone: 01 887 4034 (Mon-Fri, 10 am–4 pm)
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
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Join Our Community
NPC is stronger, more influential, and more impactful with your support. By joining NPC, you become part of a dedicated community of parents actively shaping the education landscape in Ireland. Your involvement helps us ensure that every parent’s voice matters, every child receives quality education, and every school benefits from meaningful parent participation.
Whether you’re looking for support, want to advocate for positive change, or simply wish to connect with other parents who share your goals, NPC offers a welcoming space for you.
Together, we can build brighter futures for all our children—join us today and be part of something special.
