As autumn settles over Dublin and the evenings grow quieter, November invites us to learn, connect, and make a difference together. This month is filled with powerful awareness campaigns and meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, take action, and support one another.
National Stress Awareness Day • November 5
Life can feel overwhelming at times, but support is always within reach. Today is a reminder to pause, check in with yourself, and take small, positive steps to manage stress. Simple, proven ways to help include taking a few deep breaths to calm your body, getting outside for a short walk, talking to someone you trust, and prioritising rest and good sleep.
November is an important opportunity to remind young people that wellbeing matters and that seeking support is a sign of strength. Youth services, schools, families, and communities all play a vital role in creating environments where young people feel supported, connected, and empowered.
Odd Socks Week • November 10–14
We begin the month by standing together against LGBTQIA+ bullying. Stand Up Awareness Week is a celebration of inclusion and a reminder that every young person deserves to feel safe, seen, respected, and supported today and every day.
Youth work continues to champion equality, diversity, and belonging, helping to create spaces where all young people can be themselves without fear of discrimination or exclusion.
One World Week • November 15–23
One World Week encourages young people to think globally and act locally. It’s a chance to understand our place in the world and how we can shape it for the better.
Whether through environmental action, intercultural learning, volunteering, or social justice initiatives, young people continue to play a leading role in creating positive change within their communities.
College Awareness Week • November 17–23
Every pathway is different, and every future is possible. During College Awareness Week, we’re encouraging students to explore life after school and discover the opportunities that await them.
From educators to students, this week is all about creating a welcoming space to ask questions, explore potential career paths, and build confidence in planning the next step of your journey. Whether a young person chooses further education, higher education, apprenticeships, training, employment, or volunteering, there are many routes available to help them achieve their goals.
Supporting Choice in Education – Primary Schools Survey 2030
November also provides an opportunity for families to help shape the future of education in Ireland through the Department of Education and Youth's Primary Schools Survey 2030.
The nationwide survey, open to parents of children aged 0–12, aims to assess demand for multi-denominational, co-educational, and Irish-medium education. City of Dublin ETB has welcomed the survey and is encouraging parents, school staff, and boards of management to participate and have their say on the future educational landscape.
As the State provider of education and training in Dublin city, City of Dublin ETB supports a network of Community National Schools, Community Hospital Schools, Community Special Schools, and Community Colleges. Community National Schools provide a multi-denominational model of education that welcomes and includes children and families from all faith backgrounds and none.
Recent census data highlights the growing diversity of Irish society and demonstrates the importance of ensuring that educational options continue to evolve to meet the needs of families. Research carried out by Education and Training Boards Ireland has also shown strong support for multi-denominational education, with many families expressing a preference for greater choice within the education system.
The Primary Schools Survey 2030 offers parents a valuable opportunity to contribute their views and help inform future planning for schools across Ireland. By participating, families can play an active role in shaping educational provision that reflects the needs of current and future generations.
City of Dublin ETB Celebrates Youth Work 2025 • November 21–28
We’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of young people and youth volunteers at the Voluntary Youth Work Achievement Awards on November 28 at Aviva Stadium.
This special event recognises dedication, creativity, leadership, and positive community impact. Volunteers, youth leaders, and young people across Dublin contribute enormously to their communities every day, and these awards provide an opportunity to celebrate their commitment and achievements.
The awards also highlight the important role that volunteer-led clubs, funded youth organisations, youth workers, and community partners play in supporting young people to thrive.
The Importance of Youth Voice and Participation
November's events and awareness campaigns all share a common theme: participation.
Whether young people are advocating for inclusion, exploring educational opportunities, supporting community initiatives, or celebrating achievement, their voices matter. Youth participation remains at the heart of youth work, empowering young people to influence decisions, develop confidence, and become active citizens within their communities.
By creating opportunities for engagement, learning, and leadership, we help ensure that young people feel heard, valued, and supported.
Looking Ahead
As we move towards the end of the year, November encourages us to reflect on the progress made throughout our communities while continuing to look forward to new opportunities.
We encourage young people, families, youth workers, volunteers, educators, and community partners to:
- Prioritise wellbeing and mental health
- Celebrate diversity and inclusion
- Explore educational and career pathways
- Participate in community activities
- Support youth voice and leadership
- Engage with opportunities to shape the future of education
Together, these actions help build stronger, more inclusive, and more connected communities.
Final Thoughts
November reminds us that learning, inclusion, and participation are lifelong journeys. Whether through awareness campaigns, educational opportunities, youth leadership, volunteering, or community engagement, every action contributes to creating positive outcomes for young people.
As we celebrate achievement, encourage wellbeing, and support future opportunities, we continue to recognise the vital role played by young people, families, educators, volunteers, youth workers, and community organisations across Dublin.
We invite all young people in Dublin to get involved, share their voice, and connect with their community this November.
Follow us on social media for more updates, events, and opportunities throughout the month.
Let’s make November a month of inclusion, understanding and possibility. 🍁
Content by Rukaiyat Adetunji, Social Media Coordinator at City of Dublin Youth Services.
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