Microsoft Ireland adds new Dream Space Teacher Academy pathways for AI and digital skills
Microsoft Ireland has expanded its Dream Space Teacher Academy with new multi-week programs focused on AI literacy, cybersecurity and digital fundamentals for primary and post-primary educators.
Photo credit: Catherine Doyle
Microsoft Ireland has shared new details on the expansion of its Dream Space Teacher Academy, following a LinkedIn post from Catherine Doyle, General Manager at Microsoft Ireland. The company says the updated programs are designed to support teachers as AI and digital tools become embedded across Irish classrooms.
Microsoft operates Dream Space as a teaching and learning initiative led by qualified educators, offering free professional development across STEM, digital skills and AI. The latest expansion adds more structured training pathways, longer multi-week courses and digital badges for participants who complete the programs.
In her post, Doyle highlighted ongoing gaps in teacher training, noting that Microsoft research found almost nine in ten educators in Ireland now use digital tools to increase productivity and engagement, while 83 percent report lacking formal training in AI. Doyle says: “AI and digital technologies are transforming education in classrooms across the country and at Microsoft Ireland we’re proud to support teachers on this journey.” She adds: “While teachers are eager to embrace AI, many need support and guidance to use these tools confidently and responsibly.”
New multi-week AI and digital training programs
The Dream Space Teacher Academy now includes several multi-stage courses that run across the academic year. These programs are free and open to primary, post-primary and Youthreach educators, without requiring prior technical knowledge.
The Digital Fundamentals Teacher Academy begins with a three-hour introductory session offered online or in person. Monthly sessions follow for four months, covering computational thinking, programming fundamentals, cybersecurity and AI literacy. Participants receive digital badges when they complete the course.
Microsoft has also expanded its Academic Innovators Academy. This multi-week program introduces educators to AI in the classroom, including prompt engineering, responsible AI practices and productivity tools. The company says the course is intended to help teachers build confidence in integrating AI while preparing students for future skill demands. Registration opens October 5.
A separate Minecraft Teacher Academy, which uses Minecraft Education for game-based learning, also runs twice a year. It features a three-hour opening workshop followed by monthly sessions over four months. Educators complete Microsoft Learn modules to earn their digital badges. Registration opens in November 2025.
Microsoft says Dream Space is also working with Initial Teacher Education providers across Ireland to embed digital and STEM learning into preservice teacher training through guest lectures, embedded modules and practical workshops.
Teacher packages expand classroom-ready resources
Alongside the academies, Dream Space has published teacher packages intended to support classroom delivery. The resources include pre-built schemes of work, worksheets, video tutorials and teacher guides.
For primary schools, two five-week modules introduce beginner micro:bit projects and intermediate MakeCode Arcade content. The lessons target fourth to sixth class students and focus on computational thinking and STEAM-based activities.
Post-primary packages include two eight-week modules covering game design with MakeCode Arcade and text-based programming using Python. These resources support junior cycle ICT, TY coding and early stage Leaving Certificate Computer Science.
Microsoft says the packages are designed to allow teachers to deliver content independently, without requiring specialist devices beyond standard access to micro:bit or MakeCode platforms.
Microsoft says the latest expansion aligns with its ambition to “Skill Up Ireland.” In the LinkedIn post, Doyle referenced the broader need for structured training as AI becomes more integrated into teaching practice, stating that “with the right tools and training, educators can create more inclusive, engaging, and future-ready learning experiences that benefit every student.”
Doyle adds: “It’s clear from the research that with the right tools and training, educators can create more inclusive, engaging, and future-ready learning experiences that benefit every student.”
The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.
Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.
