Community Education: Local, Lifelong, Life-Changing

Under the slogan ‘Local, Lifelong, Life-Changing’ we will share inspiring learner stories on local and national media that shine a light on the transformational impact of community education.  

Tuesday, 23rd September, is the National Day of Visibility for Community Education. Community education organisations across the country will take to social media to celebrate the campaign slogan- Local, Lifelong, Life Changing– with photos and videos with learners- Find out how you can get involved with this guide. 

Community education is a powerful way to tackle inequality, build stronger communities, and protect our democracy. 

In a time when divisions are growing and social challenges are becoming more complex, community education offers a proven, inclusive approach that meets people where they are. It helps individuals and groups learn, connect, and take action together — making real change possible. 

Investing in community education means investing in people. It supports families, strengthens neighbourhoods, and assists policy efforts in areas like health, employment, and civic engagement.  

Over the campaign week, we’ll also be highlighting the critical issues that our AONTAS Community Education Network members are currently facing- we’ll use broadcast, print and social media to bring attention to issues around funding and recognition for the sector across the island of Ireland. Read our Campaign Policy Brief to find out more about these challenges. 

In the South, we’ll be bringing attention to our Budget 2026 submission and advocating for an overall increase of 12% in the Further Education and Training budget for 2026, with ringfenced funding for community education. In Northern Ireland, we’ll be urging policy makers to develop a framework that recognises and reflects the true value of community education, and for the implementation of recent AONTAS research findings on impact evaluation in adult education. 

How can you get involved?  

If you work, learn or volunteer in adult and community education- use our Campaign Resources on the AONTAS Members Hub to get involved and take action!  

You can share information on the campaign with your colleagues and other contacts who are interested in supporting community education. We’d also like to invite you, your friends, family and neighbours to keep an eye out for our social media posts next week and to reshare where possible, particularly on Tuesday for the National Day of Visibility! Contact your local representatives and urge them to protect and support community education! 

Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #CommunityEducation