Resources

TSOP – Ep 5 – Lourdes – Walking 2 Paths: An Irish Traveller’s Perspective on Education

Daniel Todd 26 Mar 2025

In this episode of the Student Outcomes podcast, Lourdes, an Irish Traveller, shares her unique educational journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals from the Traveller community.

She discusses her early love for education, the discrimination encountered in schools, and the importance of family support. Lourdes, now working for the Traveller Movement, emphasises the need for empowerment and advocacy for Traveller women, illustrating her aspirations to create opportunities for her community.

The conversation also touches on the legacy of her grandfather, who fought for the recognition of Irish Travellers as an ethnic minority, and offers advice for young Traveller women navigating their paths in education and life.


CHAPTERS

  • 00:00 – Introduction to Lourdes and Her Background
  • 00:53 – Early Educational Experiences of an Irish Traveller
  • 04:02 – Navigating Discrimination and Support in School
  • 06:54 – Transitioning to High School and Facing Stereotypes
  • 09:53 – Support Systems in Education
  • 11:43 – Challenges and Changes in Sixth Form
  • 14:54 – University Life and Cultural Adaptation
  • 20:25 – Navigating University Life
  • 22:56 – The Unique Experience of Being an Irish Traveller
  • 26:25 – Balancing Tradition and Education
  • 28:55 – Empowering Traveller Women
  • 34:32 – Legacy of Advocacy and Education
  • 37:45 – Advice for Young Traveller Women

USEFUL LINKS

Newsletter Sign Up – https://cosmosltd.activehosted.com/f/3

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/73KyAI7nImDwEbeyVbwSsH?si=2ddcdf903714442e


Click below to check out the full episode. You can also watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify.

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