Jan O'Sullivan of the Labour Party opens up her CV...

Current job: Labour Party spokeswoman on education.

What schools did you go to? St Michael's NS and Villiers School, Limerick.

Any famous schoolmates? Vere Wynne Jones.

Hidden talents? Diverting teachers from boring curriculum to interesting discussions.

Best subject? English.

Worst subject? Home economics. My brown bread was disastrous.

Most inspirational teacher? Geoff Griffin, who is still there - the teachers who made most difference were the ones who engaged with us as people, not just receivers of mountains of facts for exams.

Did you go to college? Yes. I studied modern languages and literature at TCD, a HDip at UCC and a Montessori diploma by correspondence later when I had children.

What's the best thing about the Irish education system? Generally, it is comprehensive and inclusive with committed teachers.

The worst thing? Almost non-existant early intervention for children who are at a disadvantage, educationally or socially.

What song most reminds you of your schooldays? Please don't treat me like a child by Helen Shapiro.