Kerry ETB Newsletter 2022

Newsletter

STUDENT AND LEARNER SUCCESS | STEAM COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

TEACHING AND LEARNING | WELLBEING

www.kerryetb.ie

2021 – 2022

Our Mission

To create and promote the development of a lifelong learning society in Kerry, so that all who live there have access to the education and training required to fulfil their potential and to meet their personal, social, cultural, economic and civic needs.

Main picture cover: New Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí. Opposite clockwise from top left: Coláiste Gleann Lí leads the way with cutting-edge STEAM facilities; Two happy Kerry College graduates; Don O’Neil and students from Causeway Comp; Kerry ETB’s oldest learner celebrates her 96th birthday.

Abbreviations / Giorrúcháin

ABE Adult Basic Education

BTEI Back to Education Initiative

CC Community College

CEO Chief Executive Officer

CNS Community National School

CS Comprehensive School

ETB Education and Training Board

ETBI Education and Training Board Ireland

FET Further Education and Training

FETCH Further Education and Training Course Hub

LCA Leaving Certificate Applied

MTU Munster Technological University

OETC Outdoor Education and Training Centre

PDST Professional Development Service for Teachers

RTÉ Raidió Teilifís Éireann

SNP Scoil Naisíunta Pobail

TEL Technology Enhanced Learning

VTOS Vocational Training Opportunity Scheme

YSI Young Social Innovators

Forward Colm Mc Evoy Chief Executive Officer

RESPECT

I am delighted to welcome you to our 2022 newsletter. The annual newsletter is a very important publication for the organisation, providing us with an opportunity to reflect on the past year with its many developments, achievements and indeed challenges.

The easing of many of the COVID-19-driven public health measures in January 22nd 2022, allowed us as an organisation, to move back to largely prepandemic working. This was a welcome transition following almost two years of living and working in an environment shaped by uncertainty.

The manner in which staff and students/learners responded to the challenges presented by the pandemic since March 2020 was commendable, and the organisation is very proud of the resilience shown by all.

Reading through this newsletter, you will appreciate that 2022 was a very busy year for the organisation. Across our schools/ colleges/campuses and offices, staff were extremely active in progressing the work of the organisation, meeting the needs of students/ learners. The vibrancy and richness of the work across the organisation is captured in the various articles and reflective of our mission statement –To create and promote the development of a lifelong learning society in Kerry so that all who live there have access to the education and training required to fulfil their potential and to meet their personal, social, cultural, economic and civic needs.

Particularly noteworthy in 2022 was:

1. the transition to new organisational financial systems

2. record levels of learner engagement with FET services, with the c.14,000 beneficiaries exceeding pre-pandemic levels

3. the continued expansion of school enrolments to exceed 3000 full-time students for the first time

4. the advancement of the significant capital projects work programme, in particular Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí and Listellick National School

5. the establishment of the Regional Education and Language Team (REALT) and the excellent work of staff across the organisation in responding to the education and training needs of the Ukrainian community in Co. Kerry.

In 2022, work was progressed in compiling the new five-year strategy statement (2023-2027) for the organisation. The new strategy is scheduled to be published in quarter two of 2023. A key learning over the past five years has been the need for the organisation to remain agile and capable of responding to unplanned events, and this learning has informed our new strategy.

The success of the organisations is the sum of our individual efforts. The work and commitment throughout 2022 of the Directors, Management teams and staff across the organisation is really appreciated and underpins everything we do. Míle buíochas daoibh.

A particular word of thanks the to the ETB Board members, Boards of Management, Governance Boards, Finance Committee, Audit and Risk Committee, the Parents Forum and Associations and Student Forum for their continued support throughout 2022.

I wish all our students/learners engaging in our education and training courses across the organisation continued success.

A sincere thank you to all involved in compiling and publishing the 2022 newsletter.

Táimid ag súil leis an bhliain le teacht, ní neart go cur le chéile.

Colm Mc Evoy Chief Executive Officer

Student & Learner Success

Main picture: Castleisland Community College students receiving STEM certificates from MTU (P. 05)

Left: BT Young Scientists 2023

Students excelling in STEM in Castleisland Community College

Doreen Killington

Castleisland Community College students excelled this year in the area of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) with the outstanding success achieved by senior cycle students. Two students will be representing Ireland in the Youth Start European Entrepreneurship Award to be held in Austria in September 2023. The school had two projects shortlisted for the BT Young Scientist 2023 National Finals. Twenty senior cycle students received STEM certificates from MTU (Munster Technological University).

David Peskett and Shauna O’Keeffe became national winners at the Foróige Entrepreneurship Final 2022. As national finalists, they are now competing to become European Entrepreneurship Champions. The students designed an app, ‘Bright Mind,’ that allows students to communicate in confidence with their teacher during a lesson. It benefits an anxious, reserved student who is not inclined to share with their teacher during a class.

The first project for the BT Young Scientist was titled ‘You know what gets on my nerves… Multiple Sclerosis. The group consisted of four students- Bella Harmon, Katie Kerins, Amy McCarthy and Emma O’Donoghue.

The project investigated viral marketing and what form of media is best received by young people to spread awareness of MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Their research showed that short videos, reels and Tiktok are the best means to spread awareness among young people.

The second project undertaken by Caitríona Murphy was written entirely as Gaeilge. An tideal ar an tionscnamh ná ‘Anailís Staitistiúil ar Dhearcadh Déagóirí na hÉireann vs Déagóirí na Breataine Bige i Leith Foghlaim a dTeangacha Dúchais. (A Statistical Analysis on the Attitudes of Irish Teenagers vs Welsh Teenagers towards Learning Their Native Languages.) Her conclusion was to reduce the amount of literature for the new Junior Cycle Irish course and to place more emphasis on spoken Irish.

The STEM Passport for Inclusion Certificates were awarded to senior cycle students for participating in this MTU initiative. The project aims to encourage more girls to study STEM subjects. They now receive 50 bonus points for their CAO when applying for courses offered by MTU.

Above: National Foróige Entrepreneurship Winners

Pride and joy at the Kerry College graduation

Marion O’Toole

Kerry College of Further Education and Training held our graduation in the Brandon Hotel on Thursday, 1st of December 2022, marking the first in-person graduation since Kerry College was established in 2019. Alumni from all full and part-time courses over the last three years were invited to attend the event to revel in their success.

On the day, we welcomed over 500 graduates from Kerry College’s five campuses, along with their families and friends, to celebrate this momentous occasion. Esteemed guests included Board Members from Kerry Education and Training Board and the Kerry College Board of Governance and special guest speaker Dr Karen Weekes, Performance Psychologist, University Lecturer and Endurance Adventurer. Dr Weekes delivered a rousing speech praising the resilience of the graduates in unprecedented times, leaving the audience energised and inspired.

We were delighted to have Niall Collins, T.D, Minister of State responsible for Skills and Further Education at the Department of Further and Higher

Education, Research, Innovation and Science, in attendance on the day. He spoke passionately on the presence of further education and training in today’s society stating, “The diversity of further education and training is one of its key strengths. It reflects the communities across the country and the diverse backgrounds of the learners who engage with it. It also addresses the multiple needs that can help our society. Kerry College exemplifies this diversity.

Addressing the graduates, Chairman of Kerry ETB, Cllr. Jim Finucane wished the graduates well in their future careers, and our Director of Further Education and Training, Mr Owen O’Donnell said he was delighted to be in attendance to mark this important milestone in the graduates journey. He congratulated them all, acknowledged all their hard work, and wished them well in their lifelong learning journey.

Graduation 2022 was a stunningly successful event, and we look forward to hosting many more in the years to come.

A new chapter in education

Pat Mulvihill, Kerry College, Listowel Campus

I returned to education a few years ago to undertake a VTOS course, having been impressed by the courses while attending an open day. I needed a new structure in my life, a new focus, having spent too many years stuck in a routine. The decision to come to Listowel and attend Kerry College in Church Street, as it was known then, was a decision I have never regretted. I will never forget the words my communications tutor Kathleen Nolan told my first class: “education is a life-long process”. How true she was. I have made friends with fellow students, tutors and staff alike.

Like any new venture, in this case, our campus in Clieveragh, we meet new people. During my time at the college, I have made friends with my classmates. The word community and its ethos is a critical element which embodies what Kerry College, Listowel Campus is all about. All students and staff are, if you like, a community, working together in a friendly and safe environment to better themselves academically and socially. The college is clean and inviting and is a safe environment for the students.

I am entering a new semester if you like, as is the college, now known as Kerry College, Listowel Campus, which is currently based in Clieveragh. It’s a new dawn for education and for students. There are many positives that the new campus provides. The most positive aspect is that the campus is geared toward adults compared to the campus on Church Street. There is a great buzz and vibe around the place now. Learning, with the aid of our brilliant teaching staff, is more inclusive. By the end of the college year, we will hopefully achieve the academic results to match.

My own personal experiences of the new campus are positive. This academic year I am availing of the excellent student support provided by the college, which has helped me with many assignments thus far. As is the case with all students that need support. All the tutors put their students first, which is not surprising. I can vouch for that, even though I probably tested their patience at times. “Oh no, here comes Pat again,”go the cries. But seriously, they are excellent, which is a very positive aspect of life in college.

There will be teething problems, and that’s only natural given it’s all new to everyone, from staff to students. Still, as our community, we learn and better ourselves with each other’s help. The college has ambitious plans for the campus, which will only help to enhance future students attending the college. Overall a very positive experience, and I am delighted to be a Kerry College, Listowel Campus student.

“Education is a life-long process.”

Learning

Anne (Peig) O Sullivan’s road back to education started in Killarney VTOS. With encouragement from all at VTOS, Anne sat her Leaving Certificate in June 1999. With her new qualification and inner belief, opportunities started to arise. In Anne’s own words, VTOS gave her an education and valuable life skills to trust in her ability and work towards her values and beliefs. Anne is forever grateful to the VTOS staff for believing in her and seeing her potential.

Following the Leaving Certificate, Anne furthered her studies with a Diploma in Youth and Community Work from UCC. She then progressed to working in an assessment and resource unit with young people presenting with behavioural issues. Whilst in this employment, she continued to study and achieved a degree in social care.

This qualified Anne to apply for her dream job, supporting families and young people in marginalised communities experiencing difficulties. After 10 years of working in this role, she returned to education part-time and studied counselling and psychotherapy at MTU. In 2021 she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. As a result, Anne opened her own psychotherapy practice - Osultheraphy. Anne supports parents in becoming aware of how their attachment to their early care has shaped them and impacted their parenting style.

She has recently returned to education to do a post-graduate Diploma in Integrative Adolescent Psychotherapy, ensuring she has the most up-to-date training. VTOS staff attended a webinar delivered by Anne and found it highly informative. They found Anne to be very knowledgeable and with a tremendous ability to connect with her audience.

It highlights the empowerment of education whereby the student becomes the master, in this case, an insightful and skilled master.

Killarney VTOS past student is the embodiment of Lifelong

Mary O’Connor

“Anne supports parents in becoming aware of how their attachment to their early care has shaped them and impacted their parenting style.”

International fashion designer, Don O’ Neill, visits his old secondary school, Causeway Comprehensive

Emer O’ Brien

Don O’Neill, who has thrived as a top international fashion designer for over three decades, visited his old secondary school Causeway Comprehensive in the run-up to Christmas 2022. Don was born and raised in the beautiful seaside village of Ballyheigue and attended Causeway Comprehensive School in the 80s. It was there he fostered his love of art, fashion and textiles. During his visit, Don was very generous with his time to students and staff, delineating his career path of achieving international fashion designer fame. Don also recalled many endearing stories from his schooldays in Causeway Comprehensive. He also spoke to the students about their well-being and the importance of being happy with oneself.

Among the many exhibits he presented was the dress worn by the New York Rose for the Rose of Tralee. The students got to touch the famous sunset dress and a range of luxurious fabrics. He outlined his process of inspiration for designs.

Principal Cathal Fitzgerald spoke about “how generous Don was with his time and commended the fact he spoke to many students and staff after the event.” He continued by saying, “it was such a joy to meet a sincere and motivating person.” He finished by saying, “the school is very proud of him and his success. We would like to thank Don for such a wonderful insight into an amazing talent. I wish him continued success in the future.”

Allowing everybody in the room to undertake a mystical and spiritual journey under the glistening sea of mythological Ballyheigue.

STEAM Science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics

Coláiste Gleann Lí leads the way with cutting-edge STEAM facilities (P. 12)

Scifest 2022 winners

Brian O Reilly

Three Leaving Cert students from Killarney Community College will go on to present their award-winning STEM project at ISEF 2023.

An investigation of Pythagoras’ theorem has taken the top prize at this year’s SciFest competition. Finalists from across Ireland attended the national final at the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin. Sixth-year students Liam Waldron, Rachel Griffin and Luke O’Sullivan from Killarney Community College, Co Kerry, were named the 2022 champions.

Their winning project approached the well-known geometry theorem learned by heart by many a maths student through the framework of group theory. This involves the study of algebraic structures known as groups, a concept central to abstract algebra. Its study has applications in physics, chemistry, materials science and cryptography.

The winning SciFest trio will now bring their project to the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Dallas, Texas. Their teacher Maire Spillane was also awarded the prize for science teacher of the year.

Principal Stella Loughnane was thrilled for the students and their teacher on such a fantastic achievement, “Killarney Community College prides itself on its dedication to promoting STEAM subjects in the school. The award reflects the students’ hard work, innovation and research skills and their inspirational teacher. ”

Killarney Community College SciFest Winners

“The winning SciFest trio will now bring their project to the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Dallas, Texas.”

Coláiste Gleann Lí leads the way with cutting-edge STEAM facilities and curricular initiatives

Maryanne Lowney

The recent opening of two state-of-the-art science laboratories and a wood technology classroom at the cost of over half a million Euros. The refurbishment has ensured that Coláiste Gleann Lí boasts cutting-edge facilities to support innovative teaching and learning methodologies in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).

A Suite of Specialist Classrooms

The addition of the newly refurbished science laboratories complements an extensive suite of specialist classrooms in the areas of design and communications graphics, robotics, engineering, computer science, wood technology, applied technology, art and multimedia. These facilities ensure that Coláiste Gleann Lí students engage in a multi-disciplinary curriculum which promotes creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

New Senior Management Team

The developments coincide with the appointment of a new senior management team consisting of Mr Liam McGill as Principal and Mr Paudie Fleming as Deputy Principal; both hail from STEAM backgrounds and have a passion for leading and driving curricular development. Mr McGill detailed the school’s curricular and extra-curricular expansion: “As a school, we constantly strive to adapt to our changing world and are innovating to ensure we are offering subjects which meet the needs of the modern era.

“This year our 6th-year students will sit their Computer Science exams for the first time, having introduced the Leaving Certificate subject last year. Co-curricular opportunities in music, drama, podcasting and coding are also crucial in unleashing the potential of our students. This year also saw multiple new opportunities, such as entries to the national Junk Kouture competition and our focus on female participation in STEAM through our programme with the STEAM RDI Hub.”

Community and Industry Partnerships

The importance of community and industry partnership was illustrated by Mr Fleming, who outlined future projects planned for Junior and Senior Cycle students, “We have students innovating in the areas of robotics and creative multimedia as well as availing of opportunities in the wider community. We are also establishing our own inter-school Robotics Competition in association with industry and continuing our sustained high-quality participation in external national opportunities such as the annual EA Games Competition.”

The latest STEAM developments signal a promising chapter for Coláiste Gleann Lí and its school community.

“These facilities ensure that Coláiste Gleann Lí students engage in a multi-disciplinary curriculum which promotes creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”

BT Young Scientist competition

Eibhlín Ní Mhuircheartaigh

Bhí tionscnamh Grace Ní hIfearnáin, dalta sa triú bliain, ar cheann do na 26 tionscadal Chiarraí a d’éirigh leo páirt a ghlcadh i gComórtas Eolaí Óg BT 2023. Tá sean taithí ag Grace ar an BTYSE mar is é seo an dara huair di páirt a ghlacadh sa chomórtas. Imscrúdú ar fhoinse fuinnimh neamhdhíobhálach chun billí fuinneamh a laghdú trí bhithghás a tháirgeadh ab ea teideal an tionscnamh a bhí idir lámh ag Grace. Bain Grace taitneamh agus tairbhe as an seachtain iontach san RDS

Grace Ní hIfearnáin, a 3rd-year student, was one of the 26 qualified projects from Kerry in the BT Young Scientist Competition 2023. Grace is no stranger to BTYSE, as this is her second time representing the school in the competition. Her project, reducing energy bills by producing biogas, was an investigation into an alternative environmentally friendly energy source. Grace had a fantastic week in the RDS.

Artists in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí

Eibhlín Ní Mhuircheartaigh

Bronnadh duaiseanna ar Iseult Ní Bhriain agus Clodagh de Búrca ar son a scileanna ealaíne na Nollag, Tháinig Iseult Ní Bhriain, dalta san Idirbhliain, sa dara háit i gcomórtas Ealaíne Comhar Chreidmheasa agus roghnaíodh

dearadh Clodagh de Búrca, dalta sa dara bhliain mar bhuaiteoir chomórtas chárta Nollag BOO Chiarraí. Níh amháin gur bhuaigh Clodagh

Tablet Samsung Galaxy ó Hugh Culloty’s Trálí, úsáideadh a dearadh ar Chártaí Nollag oifigiúil BOO Chiarraí.

Iseult Ní Bhriain and Clodagh de Búrca proved their worth with their artistic skills before Christmas when both were awarded prizes for their creative designs. Iseult Ní Bhriain, a TY student, came in second place in her age category in the Cara Credit Union Art Competition. While Clodagh de Búrca, a 2ndyear student, was announced the winner with over 200 entries in Kerry ETB’s annual Christmas Card Competition. Clodagh received a Samsung Galaxy Tablet from Brendan Culloty of Hugh Culloty Expert Tralee. Her winning design was also circulated all over the country as the official Kerry ETB Christmas Card.

Coláiste Na Ríochta bringing the STEAM subjects to life with creativity and success

Rita Murphy

STEAM education is an approach to learning that uses science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

Our First Year students designed and created fantastic 3-D models using different materials to showcase the digestive system for Science Week. Many of our young scientists also attend a weekly Science Club at lunchtime, where they carry out exciting experiments. Ms O’Reilly, our chemistry teacher, has been receiving training in Universal Design for Learning (UDL). UDL aims to improve the educational experience of all students by introducing more flexible teaching and assessment methods to cater for the diversity of learners in our classrooms. We can see an example where chemistry students enjoyed a forensic lesson, investigating evidence samples collected from various crime scenes to link a criminal to a particular crime.

Coláiste na Ríochta technology students produced beautiful Christmas ornaments under the guidance of their teacher Mr Laide. A lot of time and effort went into creating the unique wooden pieces. The technology, DCG and construction studies students used CAD software to design and

customise the Christmas decorations. They then used the CNC laser cutter for the manufacture. They assembled them and added lights to create the finished products.

Art students Nicole Sayers, David Hunt, Ava Foley and Odhran Lyons all won prizes in the recent Credit Union Art Competition at regional and national levels. Sinead Buckley, Shane Kelliher and Luke Fealey were successful in The Junior Certificate Schools Programme Postcard Competition. Their entries will be made into official JCSP postcards, which will be used in schools throughout the country next year!

There is extraordinary excitement building in the school for our first musical concert with Kerry Choral Union. Our choir practices every Wednesday with the assistance of Ben Glavin from Music Generation Kerry to ensure they hit all the right notes on the night. The show is on the 19th of April in St Mary’s Church Listowel and promises to be a fun night.

Coláiste Na Ríochta STEAM Projects

Community & Sustainability

Main picture: Dingle FET Centre Stained Glass Project Group at the West Kerry Community Hospital (P. 17)

Giving back to the community

Eithne Boland

Serving and giving back to the community are key foundation stones of the Dingle Further Education and Training (FET) Centre provision. Many projects are undertaken annually to benefit the community.

On Wednesday, 21st December, our Stained Glass Project group came together at the West Kerry Community Hospital. They unveiled a specially designed and crafted installation to honour those who lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic. While also paying tribute to the unrelenting hard work of the hospital staff who bravely cared for them during this time.

Every year volunteers travel from Dingle to Kenya, including Transition Year students from Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne. They spend two weeks at Cara Girls Rescue Centre (CGRC) in Kenya, which caters for up to 40 girls who have been victims of neglect, abuse, incest or early marriage.

Over the past few years, the group have completed several stained glass courses run by the Dingle FET Centre. They hope their work will remind residents that the community is always with them in spirit. As well as a constant reminder to hospital staff of how thankful the community are, not alone for the challenging work they did during the pandemic, but for all they do for the community daily.

This year our Sewing Project group started working with volunteers and designed and produced sustainable and ethical sanitary products for GCRC. In addition to the items made for delivery to Kenya, patterns, templates and prototypes were developed. Volunteers travelling from Dingle to Kenya were provided with initial resources and trained to make the various products - skills they will transfer to residents in the centre on their next visit.

It is hoped that this venture could develop into a small cottage industry for CGRC, and the Dingle FET Centre will continue to provide support where needed.

“…a specially designed and crafted installation to honour those who lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Members of the Sewing Project beavering away to produce products to send to Kenya

Kerry ETB’s response to the war in Ukraine

Brenda Kelly

In response to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia (February 2022) and the activation of the Temporary Protection Directive, Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB) has adopted an organisation-wide approach to supporting the people arriving in Kerry.

Internally Kerry ETB established a Ukrainian Response Steering Committee to co-ordinate the organisation’s response. This group is made up of the CEO, Director of Schools, Youth and Music, Director of Further Education and Training, Director of Organisation Support and Development, Head of Human Resources, Adult Education Officer (AEO), Manager, Kerry College of Further Education and Training, Admissions Office, Youth Development Officer (YDO), Ukrainian Response Lead, Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT) Co-ordinator and very valuable Administrative Support Officer.

Kerry ETB is working with the relevant government departments and all local stakeholders regarding access to education, training services, and other support for Ukrainian refugees. Kerry ETB is most grateful for the support shown to date and is fully aware that continued success requires us all to work together. To streamline the alignment of support for Ukrainian families arriving in Ireland.

The Minister for Education Norma Foley TD established Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT). The primary role of the REALT is to assist children in finding school places and to support schools to meet the needs of these children as they emerge. The REALT also advises and supports the department in developing new capacity, where required, and co-ordinates the provision of education services to children and

families across their defined area. These teams act as a liaison between schools, local education support services and national support structures in relation to Ukrainian arrivals.

In 2022, according to official data released by the Department of Education (DE), 13,753 Ukrainian students enrolled in Irish schools. Kerry welcomed 879 students into primary and 494 students into post-primary schools, totalling 1,373. Kerry REALT has provided access to education in 55/133 primary and 20/26 postprimary schools. Nationally Co. Kerry has the second-highest enrolment of Ukrainian students. It is essential that each and every student feels valued in all schools across the County.

In November 2022, the remit of REALT was extended to include children coming into Ireland under international protection. Also, in 2022, Kerry ETB catered to over 3,000 Ukrainian learners with over 6,500 tuition hours dedicated to English language support. This was provided across 18 locations around the County to ensure that we reached as many as possible.

Several classes were held in art, mindfulness and yoga in Kerry ETB centres to provide extra support. We will continue to support those displaced from Ukraine into 2023. Kerry ETB is proud of the work achieved in 2022. There have been many challenges along the way, and undoubtedly more lie ahead. However, with the commitment and dedication already displayed, we will continue assisting Ukrainian and international protection children into 2023.

Christmas – a time for giving

Eibhlín Ní Mhuircheartaigh

Socraigh daltaí na hIdirbhliana céiliúradh

Nollag

le cabhair ón leasphríomhoide Donal Ó

Ruanaidh trí margadh a bheith acu sa scoil.

Chuir daltaí na hIdirbhliana milseáin, pancóga, agus seacláid te ar fáil do dhaltaí agus mhuinteoirí. Ina measc bhí cluichí, crannchur scoile, siamsaíocht agus canadh carúil, bhí Daidí na Nollag fiúamháin inár dteannta le linn a shiúlóid cartanachta. Bhí feachtas boscaí Nollag agus éadaí ar son Arlington Lodge, Trá Lí ar siúl sa scoil roimh Nollag comh maith.

Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí TY Students, with the help of Vice Principal Donal Ó Ruanaidh, decided to celebrate the festive season by having a Christmas Market in the school. The students supplied sweet treats, crepes, waffles and hot chocolate to both students and staff. Also, they competed in old fashion bizarre games. They also tried their luck with the school raffle. At the same time, entertainment, including carol singing, Christmas reflection, and even Daidí na Nollag (Santa), joined students and teachers on their Charity Walk. All of the proceeds from the events were donated to charities in Tralee. Students also worked tirelessly on a shoebox appeal and clothing to donate to Arlington Lodge, Tralee, in the lead-up to Christmas.

Above: Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Shoebox Appeal

Below: Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Christmas Market

Kerry College welcomes Ukrainian students

James Flanagan (Journalism student) with the guidance of Joanne Roche (Teacher)

James Flanagan is a student of the QQI level 5 Journalism course. Recently, he interviewed three Ukrainian learners in Kerry College, Clash to learn more about their experience and how the community here has welcomed them. This is his report.

of sleeping in a basement Ireland offered the best support for Ukrainian people. Alina wishes to return to Ukraine “when it was like sunshine,” and says she wants to go back when there is peace. She sympathises with those who are still in Ukraine having lived almost a year in constant stress.

Julia, enrolled in the Art, Craft & Design course, says before it was her hobby and describes the course as a pleasure. Both Anastasiia and Alina are enrolled in the Personal Training and Nutrition course.

Anastasiia said that sport was not her profession but she is thankful for the opportunity and that she really likes it. Alina tells me she is a dancer in Ukraine and has experience working in a gym but her certificate is not recognised here. She says that she now can get the Irish certificate at Kerry College. Alina also has high praise for the variety of teaching methods such as video and images which are not used in Ukraine.

Alina says she initially planned to go to America due to her dancing background but after a month

Julia notes the kindness she received when she arrived and recalls all her neighbours in Killarney being helpful bringing food and toys for her children. She says, “So it was shock for us and we believed for kindness again that it’s not only dark in this world.” She also says that she misses her husband who cannot come to Ireland as Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60 are banned from leaving the country because of the war. Julia worries that Ukrainian soldiers are on the frontline paying a massive price for their country’s freedom.

Anastasiia says that she is looking forward to victory, but she understands that they need time to recover. She has not seen her parents in almost a year and she misses them very much and hopes to return to Ukraine but not just yet.

Following our interview Julia asked that I make sure to emphasise how grateful she and other Ukrainians are for the help they have received and Anastasiia added “I couldn’t imagine what could be better for us.”

“We’re so so so so so grateful for everything.”

Killarney Youthreach’s green team spearheads clothes drive

John Adams

Killarney Youthreach students have partnered with ClothesPod to recycle used clothing as part of their centre’s sustainability efforts. ClothesPod is a national sponsor of the Green Schools Programme, which aims to bring further sustainability and environmentally friendly solutions to Ireland’s schools and education centres. ClothesPod is 100% Irish, with over 25 years of award-winning experience in the textile recycling industry and currently employs over 50 people full-time in Ireland.

John Adams, Co-ordinator of Killarney Youthreach, announced, “Killarney Youthreach is excited to partner with ClothesPod’s Green School Programme to promote active recycling.”

second-hand

Elizabeth Williams, Green Team Co-ordinator and Resource Worker with Killarney Youthreach has spearheaded the centre’s Green Team involvement with this year’s clothing collection. Elizabeth added, “Our students have embraced sustainability and recycling initiatives within our centre. Now they have a chance to involve their homes in recycling used clothing, and because of this, clothing will not be going into landfills. This project has been very successful to date.” The drive will finish on Wednesday, 15th February 2023. The efforts from both students and staff have been excellent. Brendon Bearrs, Co-Chairperson of the student-led Green Team, commented “, students have really gotten behind this clothes drive and have been encouraged to reflect and act on clothing recycling in their own homes. We are delighted to do our bit.”

ClothesPod, the number one collector and exporter of

clothing in Ireland, has partnered with the Green Schools Programme to promote active recycling and reuse programmes in participating schools nationwide.

Killarney Youthreach

Music Generation Kerry inspires national programme

Brietta Kerins

Music Generation Kerry

2022 was an exciting year of growth and collaboration for Music Generation Kerry. Kerry’s countywide music performance education programme is led and managed by Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB). Programme activity expanded exponentially, with over 2100 children and young people accessing a Music Generation school, hub, ensemble each week.

Ukrainian communities populate the Kingdom

From February 2022 onwards, Music Generation Kerry sought to engage with the Ukrainian community, providing many instruments for children whose instruments had to be left behind. These efforts led to a unique and powerful initiative in collaboration with Festival in a Van and Kerry County Council in the summer of 2022.

Festival in a Van

Irish Times journalist Gemma Tipton created Festival in Van’s mobile concert space to facilitate Covid-friendly festival performances in small villages and towns throughout Ireland, a huge success. With support from Kerry County Council, Festival in a Van and Music Generation Kerry collaborated to create shared Ukrainian/Irish performances in two locations on May 15th 2022. Music Generation Kerry musicians rehearsed and performed with Ukrainian musicians, and the shared nature of the performance gave rise to many memorable moments over the course of the day.

The birth of a national model

Festival Director, Gemma Tipton, details the birth of this initiative in collaboration with Music Generation Kerry in an article written for The Irish Times on July 24th.

Festival in a Van returned to Kerry in August and undertook a three-day tour of seven venues with six Music Generation Kerry artists and many more Ukrainian singers and players to coincide with Ukrainian Independence Day. The response at each venue was incredible, with much hospitality shown by the Ukrainian community and many important connections made. The singing of the Ukrainian national anthem was a moving experience for all and a fitting climax to a wonderful 2022 initiative.

The success of May 15th laid the foundation for a national model for Festival in a Van’s ‘Shared Music Sessions’, which were rolled out nationally, often in collaboration with a county’s Music Generation.

Music Generation Festival in a Van August

Inclusion: Exploring home and homelessness

Deirdre Enright, Creative Youth Co-Ordinator

Kerry Local Creative Youth Partnership (Kerry LCYP) is committed to supporting creativity amongst seldom-heard young people in youth settings. In partnership with Novas, the homeless charity, Kerry LCYP supported a project exploring the therapeutic benefits of expression. Mindful that children may not understand their homelessness or have the tools to express how it feels. The overall aim was to see that bringing children together with the same experiences would allow them to feel less alone.

Artist Jeannine Storan and the staff at Novas worked with the group over many months. The medium the group chose to work through was visual art, including drawing, painting, and sculpture.

The group’s creative journey resulted in a small but powerful exhibition titled ‘Inclusionexploring home and homelessness’ at Kerry County Museum in September 2022. The process sought to hear the children voice their opinions in exploring a theme such as’ home’. They were unified by a central experience-the desire to have a home. There were six core artworks in the final show. Clay head puppets represented strength in unity; paper mâché masks represented the faces

we showed the world at different times. An exercise in mindfulness threw up the simple comforts of home in the form of clay-based pots and plates. House shapes made from plaster represented the different shapes of a home and how every home can have its quirks. A mixed media framed piece, which everyone worked on, portrayed a utopian town where house designs were imaginative and different but happily located side by side. A soundscape accompanied the show, which featured the children at work, chatting, joking, at play, planning and questioning each other.

The show was featured in a Radio Kerry podcast and broadcast. It was reproduced at the Novas Annual Meeting in Limerick, where Peter Burke, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, visited the show. The stand-out moment was knowing the children could visit the show in Tralee. See their work, hear their voices and see how much other children enjoyed their exhibition. A total of 1,608 visitors came to Kerry County Museum while the show was there. The hope is that the message about inclusion and homeless young people echoes in many hearts as a result.

Our Communuty Town, 2021. Mixed media piece.

Youth Work Enhancing the Lives of Kerry’s Young People

The Youth Development Office at Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB) is where youth work and a range of youth-related services are centralised. These services range from broadbased universal supports to targeted programmes for specific groups of young people. Throughout 2022, young people were supported in dynamic and creative ways to develop their potential and explore their interests, whether through volunteerled youth clubs or staff-led programmes delivered by youth service organisations.

Two fascinating new developments in the county in 2022 were the establishment of new targeted services in Kerry under the UBU - Your Place, Your Space scheme. These projects are located in rural North Kerry, delivered by Kerry Diocesan Youth Service (KDYS) and West Iveragh, delivered by Foróige Youth Service. The vision of this scheme is that all young people are enabled to realise their maximum potential by respecting their rights and hearing their voices. While protecting and supporting them as they transition from childhood to adulthood. These projects will offer a wide range of out-of-school activities. Helping young people to explore their passions and find new interests, as well as develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

An excellent example of this work was the threeday sailing course delivered during the summer by KDYS in partnership with Sailing into Wellness, the aptly named sea-based experiential learning programme. The programme was very well received by the young people who participated in it with the benefits including greater communication skills, teamwork and leadership skills.

Youth services supporting Kerry’s young people to flourish

Catherine Lyons

In South Kerry, UBU West Iveragh, managed by Foróige and officially launched in November 2022, has seen steady growth in Cahersiveen and the surrounding communities due to its adaptive and responsive approach to young people’s needs and requests. It has also been essential in providing support to the large cohort of young Ukrainian people relocated to Cahersiveen over the past year through their weekly Ukrainian breakfast club and music group sessions.

Kerry ETB Youth Development Officer Seamus

Whitty noted, “The work of these two organisations in Kerry, KDYS and Foróige, is hugely important. Their impact on the lives of young people cannot be overstated. Kerry ETB are honoured to support these initiatives and acknowledge in particular the commitment of everyone involved to improving the lives of the young people participating.”

Kerry ETB are developing the Youth Work Plan 2023-2027, which will be published and launched in 2023. Through extensive consultations with young people and critical stakeholders, the plan will outline how we can all work together to ensure that young people are supported through highquality Youth Work throughout the county.

Kerry Education and Training Boards is the funding intermediary for UBU – Your Place Your Space in Kerry. Under the Education and Training Boards Act 2013, the ETBs have a statutory role in youth services in their functional area.

IMAGES:

Top Left: KDYS Sailing into Wellness Photo

Top Right: Ukrainian Breakfast Club in West Iveragh Youth Service in Cahersiveen Foróige

Kerry ETB’s Climate Action Plan 2023-2025

Aileen O’Connor

Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB) developed our first-ever Sustainability Strategy in 2020. Marking Kerry ETB’s commitment to increasing sustainable practices across our schools/centres/campuses and raising awareness through teaching and learning. This strategy has now come to an end, and we are currently in the process of developing the Kerry ETB Climate Action Plan 2023-2025. This plan will focus on energy management and other sustainable initiatives and confirms Kerry ETB’s commitment to reaching Public Sector energy targets in 2030. The Kerry ETB Climate Action Plan 2023-2025 will be developed to reduce carbon emissions, increase energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy sources.

This new plan will help us become more sustainable as an organisation and contribute positively to our local environment. In 2022, Kerry ETB engaged the services of 3rd party energy consultants to carry out audits across a number of our schools/centres/campuses. To identify areas of improvement of energy usage, which will be included in the Kerry ETB Climate Action Plan 2023-2025. We are committed to reducing our energy consumption and improving our energy efficiency. We will invest in energyefficient equipment, install renewable energy sources, and introduce energy-saving initiatives.

Kerry ETB will also introduce a range of sustainability initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint. These include reducing waste and water usage, increasing recycling, and investing in green technologies. We are also committed to educating our staff and students about sustainability and encouraging them to take action to reduce their own carbon emissions. We understand that this is a significant undertaking, and we are committed to doing our part to reach the public sector energy targets by 2030. The Kerry ETB Climate Action Implementation group will be meeting in early 2023 to finalise and assist in implementing the plan. Please let your line manager know if you are interested in joining this group. We would love to hear from you.

We are also committed to improving our environmental performance by implementing green technologies, reducing water usage and increasing recycling.

South Kerry VTOS/ Pathways Learners participate in The Killorglin Biddy’s Day

Parade on the feast of Saint Bridget

Joe Brennan

The basic principles of adult education have always been about much more than just gaining a qualification or completing a course. Those principles have been about personal development, community development, and empowerment, supporting learners to live their best lives and participate fully in their communities. In Killorglin VTOS/Pathways, we have always been committed to the learning society.

This has always been a challenge, but for the Ukrainian students who arrived in Ireland and located in Killorglin and its environs in the spring and summer of 2022, it’s a particular challenge. Clearly, it’s our job to teach language skills. It is also our job to teach something about the culture of the country.

Killorglin is a small, ancient town with a lot of history. During our formal and informal sessions on Irish culture at the centre, the learners developed a knowledge and appreciation of this place they temporarily call home. Although best known for Puck Fair, the other big Killorglin tradition is participating in the Biddy’s Day Parade and associated events.

On February first, St Brigid’s day, the locals Biddy’s group celebrate the old Celtic festival of Imbolc. This year’s parade, the first after Covid, was widely anticipated. Our learners responded gladly to the call for volunteers.

As the Killorglin Pipe Band and the pike men with the flaming torches led the parade of giant paper mache sculptures representing the milk and honey of the spring, along with the various Biddy groups and musicians in their red and white suits, sashes and straw hats, across Laune bridge, up the hill to Library Place, we were proud that some of those sculptors were carried by our Ukrainian learners.

They engaged first-hand in this local community initiative, and we learnt that they, too, have a Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday custom in Ukraine where giant straw figures are burnt.

Most of all, they just enjoyed themselves. They appreciated the music, dancing and fun with their friends and neighbours and a community that welcomed and embraced them since their arrival. Seeing them converse in English and mix with all of the others in this community initiative gave the staff a real sense of satisfaction that they were empowering these learners to participate in a community they for now call home.

Teaching & Learning

Top: Celebrating the completion of stuctural works at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí.

Bottom: Transition year students of Colaiste Na Sceilge (P. 36).

Two Mile Community National School (CNS) is a three teacher school!

Catherine Barry

It’s official! Two Mile CNS is now a three teacher school. The third mainstream class teacher was appointed in October 2022, based on an enrolment of 57 pupils on 30th September. In addition to the third teacher, the school received sanction for additional learning support, language support and special needs assistant support.

Our school opened its doors in September 2017 with nine pupils and one teacher.

As the only multidenominational primary school in Killarney. A significant number of parents have chosen Two Mile CNS as an alternative to the primary schools in the area, which are run under religious patronage.

Like all primary schools, Two Mile CNS follows the primary school curriculum. However, it differs from other schools in terms of the characteristic spirit. We seek to enable every child to realise their full potential regardless of any aspect of their identity or background.

Two Mile CNS is one of three primary schools in Kerry under the patronage of Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB). Our values of, excellence in education, care, equality, community and respect align with the values of Kerry ETB.

The pupils in Two Mile CNS benefit from The Goodness Me, Goodness You programme. This multi-belief values curriculum has been developed especially for community national schools. It is the curricular expression of ETB ethos and core values and an integral part of all teaching and learning. The curriculum aims to enable children to be active citizens, to think critically about the world around them and to share their beliefs and values and learn about the beliefs of others in a learning environment of care and respect.

Two Mile CNS continues to meet the demand amongst parents for choice of school types other than single-denominational models. We look forward to continued growth in the years ahead with this new model of primary school that recognises and celebrates the identity of all children.

Staff and Pupils at Two Mile Community National School

Tralee Youthreach

Ciara Fields

This year has seen quite a change for us at Tralee Youthreach. We were allocated more rooms in our building at Liber House, and this space has enhanced our provision and is welcomed by both staff and learners.

A decision was made to create a sensory room, which is nearly ready for use. It will be an oasis of calm when students need to use the space.

Recently, Transition Tralee hosted workshops on willow crafts, and the resulting animal sculptures are proudly displayed above.

Our outdoor education programme takes place every Thursday, weather permitting. We have participated in various hikes around the county, a bush-craft skills day, rock climbing and abseiling with the Kerry College Killorglin Campus staff. As well as water activities with Splash Sports in the Maherees and some more local walks.

Me and the Moon offered a series of art-based workshops for our groups. The young people have been fully engaged and hope to display their work in the centre when the project is complete.

The Music Generation initiative teaches music to our students every Tuesday afternoon, and we look forward to their first in-house concert. So, a busy year with lots happening with a wide range of activities and the small matter of all of the young people working towards gaining qualifications in QQI Levels 3 & 4.

We have 7 Ukrainian students who have been fully integrated into the programme and have made new friends.

The addition of a fully equipped kitchen has dramatically benefited the programme. Under the direction of Mark Doe, our young people are learning cooking skills and using these skills to host international cooking days and to gain qualifications in this area.

From left: Transition Tralee enjoying workshops on willow crafts; Tralee Youthreach learner’s artwork; Tralee Youthreach students enjoying their outdoor activities

Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician , Class 2022

Launch of new opportunities

Kasia Lyko

The year 2023 marks a significant milestone in Ireland’s further education and training landscape, with the official launch of the innovative and exciting National Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship. This launch followed a successful validation from QQI in January 2022 and the first intake commencing in November 2022.

For over 4 decades, Monavalley has been at the forefront of delivering professional skills training, professional development and apprenticeship training. The addition of the National Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship is a further testament to our commitment to innovative programme design and development.

Developed by a consortium of key industry stakeholders with Kerry Education and Training Board as the lead educational provider – this 3-year apprenticeship offers exceptional opportunities for those who wish to develop a rewarding and exciting career in the green, sustainable and renewable sectors. Apprentices will be equipped with the technical skills needed to excel in a dynamic and progressive renewable sector.

Robert O’Brien, Chair of the Consortium Steering Group, said, “As Chairperson of the Consortium Steering Group, I am extremely proud of what has been collaboratively developed by the many key industry stakeholders involved.“

The official launch of this unique apprenticeship is scheduled to take place in Quarter 1 of 2023 in Monavalley’s state-of-the-art training facility.

Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship

“I am certain that this programme helps address the needs of the industry as we continue to develop the sustainable energy sector, enhance energy security, and reduce carbon generation in line with Ireland’s global environmental commitments.”

Killorglin

Community College, No. 1 in the county for third level progression

Fiona O’Brien and Saoirse Riordan

We rounded off 2022 at Killorglin Community with the incredible news that we are number one in Kerry for the highest rate of progression to third level!

This news is a tremendous source of pride and delight for us and is a validation of the excellent teaching and learning that takes place here.

We are delighted to have topped the Feeder Schools Table in Kerry as published in the Irish Times and the Irish Independent in December, with the Irish Times reporting a 110% progression rate. This statistic was achieved due to the high number of Leaving Certificate students from 2022 and those who had deferred their places in 2021, moving onto third level.

Speaking of this news, Principal Fiona O’Brien commented: “We acknowledge the hard work and commitment of the students, their parents and the staff in accomplishing such high levels of progression, and we were delighted as a school to play our part in supporting the students to achieve their potential.”

You will find our students studying at a variety of universities which include the Royal College of Surgeons, NUI Galway, University College Cork, Munster Technological University, University of Limerick, Trinity College Dublin, Technological University of the Shannon, Atlantic Technological University, Sligo, Mary Immaculate College, Limerick and Maynooth. A complete list can be seen in our prospectus on our website  www.killorglincc.ie

Staff and Pupils of Killorglin Community National School with the Minister of Education Norma Foley, TD.

An Tóchar learners keeping Folklore alive

Nora Knapp

A new course - Folklore - commenced at the centre this January and has proven to be hugely popular. The groundwork for this course was set in motion two years ago when we delivered a QQI Level 5 Local History course. Subsequent to that, we have delivered two further community education local history courses, which have now led to our Folklore course.

So many of us were captivated in our childhood by fairy and ghost stories told around the open fire during the long winter months. This course is a reminder of how important it is to preserve these magical stories and lore.

Folklore serves to educate participants and preserve the culture of the people or folk of which it speaks.

It has an essential role in passing on customs, beliefs, and traditions. In years gone by, rural Ireland was very close to the natural world, and folklore was often the key to survival. For example, weather lore and preparing for storms, or the fishing lore of the Blasket Islanders, who watched seabirds

to locate fish. Much of the folklore that survived across generations did so because it continued to be relevant.

The learners at An Tóchar celebrated St Brigid’s Day by recalling all the lore that goes with it and making traditional St Brigid’s crosses and Brideog dolls from rushes. Renowned storyteller and participant in the course, Frances Kennedy, says of the course. “It’s an absolutely fantastic course, bringing the old folklore into modern life.”

Local history is also an important course here at An Tóchar. Learners are soaking up the vast knowledge delivered to them by tutor Tom Dillon. North Kerry is an area that provides a rich tapestry of historical events and culture, and understanding our local history will ensure we can connect the past with the present.

We are also delighted to welcome historian and author Bryan Mac Mahon to the Centre on February 23rd and March 23rd. He will deliver two lectures on important local historical events in north Kerry: the Great Famine and its impact on the region; and the Civil War in Ballyheigue and Causeway.

Tutor and Learners from An Tochar

Tahilla CNS: high-quality public education

Fernando Casado (Parent)

Our daughter Manuela started Junior Infants at Tahilla Community National School by complete chance. Now that we have to leave Ireland, we realise how lucky we have been and the great experience Manuela has enjoyed.

We wanted our child to learn English, not in a posh private school in Spain, where we come from, but in a regular public school. Consequently, we were looking for the best place for a family to settle in Ireland a year ago. However, things were going to take more work than picking a nice town and moving in. Soon enough, we were overwhelmed with the Irish housing problem. First, there was very little on offer. Secondly, it was extremely expensive. Finally, the numerous and intricate requirements aspirational renters must fulfil made it look easier to apply for a PhD in Ireland than a tenancy. When we were at the edge of despair and ready to give up, we discovered a hopeful ad on the internet: “Beautiful bungalow 5 minutes from Tahilla School.” That was everything we needed, a house and a school.

Manuela was delighted with the lovely múinteoirí and her new schoolmates, who were very welcoming from the beginning. The students are divided into two classrooms with three very attentive teachers all year. Students of different ages share the same space and interact with each other. The students have a music teacher, a sports teacher, a forest school teacher and a lovely

chef who serves the students a snack and a hot lunch every day. Can you believe it?

Another day she would show up with the Picker Pal Pack because she was responsible for litter picking in our locality that week. Due to these incredible experiences, Manuela felt a sense of belonging and developed a love of learning. Furthermore, she did not only learn English, the original aim of the whole adventure, but Gaeilge as well.

We are so grateful that our child ended up in this lovely multi–denominational school because there are only three in the whole county of Kerry. No doubt, Tahilla Community National School is a success in progress. Unfortunately, now we have to return to our country, so we will all miss the school and the lovely community of Tahilla. But we are grateful because we carry back a piece of Ireland that, from now on, we will always call home.

One day Manuela would come home with delicious sweet radishes she had harvested in the school’s greenhouse.

Staff and students of Tahilla CNS

Kerry ETB’s oldest learner

Marian O’Neill

On December 15th, Mary Wharton had a double celebration. Not only did she mark her birthday, but her classmates also made sure that everyone knew that Mary holds the honour of being the oldest learner registered with Kerry ETB. At 96, Mary is an inspiration.

The class arranged for a cake and a photographer from the local paper to be in attendance to celebrate the momentous occasion. “It was a huge surprise,” said Mary, “I didn’t expect anything”.

Every Tuesday at 2 pm, one of the first to arrive at Tech Amergin for the Teacht le Cheile class, always looking glamorous, is Mary. The class has been running for many years, and Mary has been in attendance for most of it.

The Tutor, Bernie Kennedy, takes the group through a routine of gentle exercise, light weights and dance to maintain fitness and coordination. The learners are mainly active retired members of the community. Still, with a “more the merrier” attitude, Bernie takes all new comers. After all their hard work, the learners take turns to provide home baking and other refreshments for the after-class tea and chat. All the learners agree that this is an equally important part of their weekly class.

Together with her husband, Mary ran a farm and raised a family, so being active has been a lifelong habit.

One of her classmates said. “If I’m feeling a bit lazy and I’m not sure if I’ll go to class, I think of Mary and say to myself, if Mary Wharton can do it, so can I”.

When asked for the secret of her eternal youth, Mary says, “Keep fit, take life easy and don’t get too excited about things.”

Mary Wharton, Kerry ETB’s oldest learner, celebrating her 96th birthday

Transition year students of Colaiste Na Sceilge follow the yellow brick road to…. Barcelona!

Aisling Murphy

Transition Year students in Colaiste Na Sceilge have been busy preparing for the wonder that will be the ‘Wizard of Oz’. The performance will commence on February 22nd and 23rd for two nights only! It’s a show not to be missed, directed by Fiona Crowley and enhanced by the music and art departments here in school. Young Dorothy and friends are excited to welcome you all and to impress upon you ‘that there really is no place like home’.

Barcelona

The student preparations don’t stop there. Although Dorothy tells us there is no place like home, passports and permission forms are at the top of our Transition Year students’ priority list.

Students and their teachers are jetting off to Barcelona from May 2nd to 5th. Hoping for sunshine, craic agus ceol. Students will visit various sites while on their school tour - each offering a diverse range of educational lessons and language enrichment experiences. While on the trip, students will be building on their in-class learning. Their Spanish will be put to the test, they will experience a history-enriched walking tour, and for some dreams come true, visiting Camp Nou, to name just a few.

Above are just two events that Transition Years prepared for in 2022. To date, they have been involved in referring and coaching courses, filmmaking workshops, adventure days in Eclipse Kenmare, Dingle and the Blasket Centre, visited Croke Park, and Bernard Casey workshop, all the while taking the time to walk the length and breadth of our wonderful homeland – South Kerry! I think Dorothy is correct – there is no place like home.

Wizard of Oz

“I have found the musical beneficial as it has boosted my confidence by letting me perform on stage. It is also great craic for socialising and partaking in exercise”.

J. Keating

“I have found the musical an excellent way to boost my confidence and to work with others. I have also benefited from this musical by learning new dancing skills and am much more flexible”.

S. Murphy

Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail

Sorcha Ní Chatháin

Tá an-bhród orainn as gur muid an chéad scoil ilchreidmheach sa cheantar, ag urramú gach creideamh agus ag cinntiú go bhfuil uilechuimsitheacht ann do chách. Tá muid eisiach sa mhéid atá le tairscint againn, le cur chuige uilechuimsitheach do chách. Leanann muid éiteas na Scoileanna Náisiúnta Phobail; Sármhaitheas sa oideachas, comhionannas do chách, dírithe ar an bpobal, ilchreidmheach, cúram do gach ball na scoile agus ag freastal ar gach cumas agus spéis. Is scoil croíúil fáilteach muid atá dírithe ar an bpáiste. Is é ár gcuspóir ná an t-oideachas is fearr is féidir linn a thabhairt dár ndaltaí agus go mbaineann siad sult as gach lá atá siad anseo linn i Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail.

Bhí Oscailt Oifigiúil na scoile againn mar Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail i Mí Deireadh Fomhair 2022, agus is mór an onóir dúinn é go raibh an tAire Oideachais Norma Foley i láthair. D’éirigh go hiontach linn ar

an lá agus tháinig slua mór chugainn le ceiliúradh linn. Bhí páistí na scoile mar chroílár an cheiliúradh, díreach mar ba cheart. Gabhann muid buíochas ó chroí lenár bPátrún Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna Chiarraí, Bord Bainistíochta na scoile, pobal an Ghleanna, Coiste na dTuismitheoirí, tuismitheoirí uile na scoile, foireann láidir tiomanta na scoile agus daltaí iontacha Scoil an Ghleanna SNP, a chas leagan gleoite ‘Fáinne Geal an Lae’ ag an ócáid stairiúil.

Tá muid mórálach faoi go bhfuil muid inár 6ú bliain den Scéim Aitheantais Scoileanna Gaeltachta. Tá dul chun cinn iontach déanta ag pobal iomlán na scoile, le dearca dearfach a chothú agus a léiriú i leith ár dteanga dhúchais. Tá sé soiléar le feiceáil go bhfuil dea-thionchar ag an Scéim Aitheantas ar oideachas na ndaltaí agus ar chaomhnú ár dteanga. Is le bród agus brí a leanann muid orainn, ag spreagadh scoil chothaitheach do dhaltaí uile Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail.

Kerry College Listowel

Miriam Goulding

In September 2022, Kerry College, Listowel, welcomed students to its brand-new campus. For the first time a further education (FE) provision in Listowel is being provided separately from post primary. Our new home is a relatively modern building, with a bright sunny atrium and large wellappointed classrooms. A new backdrop from which to build an inclusive community of FE learners.

both groups worked together recently on an excursion to Muckross, Killarney. The preuniversity learners visited Muckross house exploring its history, architectural features, and its artwork. The photography learners were busy taking photos of the natural environment around the house and the surrounding area. They also made a trip to Torc to capture the might and beauty of the wonderful waterfall.

Both groups enjoy regular excursions to museums and cultural sites of both history and natural beauty.

Our childcare group has also been busy, visiting the Free Range Kids business and continuously focusing on creative play and celebrating the importance of story time by creating story sacs.

With the addition of a brand new QQI level 6 in Community Development. This group recently ran a remarkably successful coffee morning. The intention of the event was to raise donations for Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) due to escalating pressures people are experiencing and to raise awareness for the wide array of services that SVP provide. The event raised 770 euro in 2 hours.

We are also providing some courses that focus on the arts, such as Photography and the PreUniversity Arts, Cultural and Heritage. Indeed,

In September, we also welcomed a number of students who have been displaced by the war in Ukraine. It has been a tumultuous and challenging year for these students, but they have embraced life in Kerry College, improving their English immeasurably and learning new skills. A lot of students are doing our Pathways course in ICT and all students are learning skills that will stand to them throughout their lives.

This year we are providing 14 courses in areas such as childcare, administration, healthcare and animal care.

Left: The Community Development learners and teachers

Right: Learners from Photography and Pre-University Arts in Killarney

The O’Connell Further Education and Training Centre

Deirdre Fitzgerald

The O’Connell Further Education and Training (FET) Centre is very excited to deliver a full-time course in business management. On successful completion of this comprehensive and intensive training course, students will have achieved a QQI Level 6 Business Management Major Award. Empowering them to confidently enter the workforce or to continue their education to a degree level. With the opportunity to develop the ability to coordinate and motivate teams through the highs and lows of doing business in Ireland and internationally.

Deirdre has planned and organised excursions to business environments and invited speakers since the commencement of the training course. This exposure is critical to ensure that students can make informed decisions about future career pathways. Our students were fortunate to have an excursion to Kerry Airport, where they spent the day with CEO John Mulhern. It was an invaluable learning experience for our students, reiterating the importance of Kerry Airport linking the West Coast and Wild Atlantic Way to Dublin and beyond. John’s leadership skills, drive, motivation, and subsequent success inspired our learners, giving them a real insight into employee recognition and building future leaders.

Recently, local entrepreneur Declan Sugrue 3DS Designs, came to speak with the group. Declan’s drive and eye for opportunity were admired by all and may have sown seeds for future local enterprises. Catherine Evans, RDI Hub Collaboration Manager, also gave our students an insightful and inspiring talk. Catherine shared the history, development, and diversification of FEXCO. The encouragement, support and recognition given to start-ups in the RDI hub in Killorglin in a worldclass facility sets a high standard. It puts Killorglin and South Kerry on par with other such hubs worldwide. Our students were impressed with the facilities the RDI Hub offers potential businesses. This, alongside Declan’s story, inspired and ignited our business management students.

“If you can dream it, you can do it.”

Walt Disney

O’Connell FET Centre Business Management Course Group

Regional Literacy Coordinator Appointed

Paula Tiller

The Adult Literacy for Life Strategy was recently launched by Simon Harris, minister for Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. The purpose of the ten-year strategy is to create a joined-up approach to supporting people who have unmet literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs. The aim is to make it easier for people with unmet literacy needs to take the next step to get support.

Where are we now?*

Ireland is 17th place in literacy out of 24 countries

18% (1 in 6) of adults aged 16 to 65 struggled to read basic texts

521,550 adults at or below level 1 on a 5-level literacy scale

Ireland is 19th place in numeracy out of 24 countries

25% of adults in Ireland experience numeracy difficulties

754,000 adults at or below level 1 for numeracy

55% of adults aged 25 to 64 have low digital skills

Covid-19 has deepened this digital divide

How will the strategy help?

A one-stop shop will allow people to access the various types of provision in their local area. There is already a lot happening but it can be difficult for people to find out exactly where to access help for their specific needs.

An essential part of the strategy is a whole-ofgovernment approach in meeting the needs of those who are the furthest behind first, in line with the programme for government. To enable action there will need to be collaboration across government bodies, community organisations and local businesses. To facilitate this collaboration and drive implementation, a national network of Regional Literacy Coordinators has been established.

Low digital skills

Paula Tiller, Regional Literacy Coordinator was recently appointed Kerry ETB, Paula has a long history in adult basic education and community projects. She will liaise with internal and external stakeholders, mapping needs, provision, and resources and serve to facilitate collaboration between partners. A regional action plan will be drawn up in collaboration with all stakeholders across the county to bring about the vision of the ALL Strategy which is, “An Ireland where every adult has the necessary literacy, numeracy and digital literacy to fully engage in society and realise their potential.”

Paula can be reached on 087 337 2139 or paula.tiller@staff.kerryetb.ie.

*1: CSO (2013). PIAAC 2012 - Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies: Survey Results from Ireland.

2: Cedefop (2020)

10 Things you might like to know about Killorglin Campus

Jennifer O Carroll

1. Location – Killorglin Campus is nestled in the mountains and lakes overlooking Caragh Lake and provides the perfect scenic backdrop for those who wish to study outdoor education.

2. Name Change – In September 2020, it was agreed that Cappanalea OETC would be designated as a FET centre and became the fifth Campus of Kerry College.

3. New AEO – Aodhnait Carroll took up the position of Adult Education Officer of Killorglin Campus in January 2022. Aodhnait has an extensive background in outdoor education and FET and a passion for pedagogy in the outdoors.

4. Outdoor Activity Instructor – Provides learners with the opportunity to achieve personal proficiencies in kayaking; rock-climbing; hillwalking; powerboating and become a kayak instructor.

5. Advanced Outdoor Activity Instructor – QQI Level 6 award helps those that have gained some qualifications in the outdoors and want to further develop their instructorship and leadership skills in rock-climbing; canoeing; orienteering; sea kayaking and trail cycling.

6. Connect Outdoors - This bespoke one-day wellbeing programme is offered to all courses in Kerry College. Learners connect with fellow learners / tutors while in the outdoor setting of the Killorglin Campus.

7. Scuba Diving - This is the only PADI Scuba Diving Instructor programme run by an ETB in Ireland. It provides learners with the opportunity to achieve the PADI Open Water Diver certificate; PADI Advanced Open Water Diver; PADI Rescue Diver course and PADI Dive Master.

8. Ecology & Practical Fieldwork – Utilising the Killarney National Park, this course is highly practical and focuses on the key skills & knowledge necessary for working in an ecologically based role.

9. Surf Instructor & Beach Lifeguard – Learners will gain qualifications in surfing, lifeguarding, first aid, with the view to becoming a Surf Instructor and Beach Lifeguard.

10. Future Developments - Supporting Kerry’s hospitality sector / local communities, the development of renewable energies in Ireland, providing upskilling opportunities in outdoor education and training for all, i.e. Adventure Skills and Leadership Series, Star Gazers Guide, Commercial Diving and Greenway and Blueway Guide.

Cappanalea OETC has been designated as a FET centre and

Quality Review of Further Education and Training (FET)

Aoife McCormack

A report prepared for QQI recognises quality FET provision in Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB). The report was published by QQI in May 2022.

“We are delighted to receive many commendations for our quality further education and training provision,” says the Director of FET, Owen O’Donnell. ‘We work hard to ensure that Kerry ETB courses meet the high-quality expectations of learners, and we now can warmly welcome the 20 commendations documented by QQI. This recognises the strong commitment to quality assurance in Kerry ETB that is consistent with the best quality models”.

The report, published by QQI on 30th May 2022, followed on from its review of quality assurance in Kerry ETB. The review focussed on the implementation and effectiveness of quality assurance procedures in Kerry ETB and was conducted in December 2021 by a six-person international review panel appointed by QQI.

During the review, the panel met with 158 staff, learners, employers and other partners to assess the effectiveness of Kerry ETB’s quality assurance processes. The report identified how Kerry ETB exhibits a strong quality culture and has established strong governance structures to support quality assurance across FET provision.

“The report also contained recommendations for Kerry ETB to implement in the future. This report has provided us with much encouragement to continue our quality work into the future and recognises the key role that staff in Kerry ETB play in supporting learners to achieve their potential,” added Aoife McCormack, QA Manager for Kerry ETB.

In response, Kerry ETB prepared an Action Plan for QQI outlining the steps Kerry ETB will take to continue to quality assure its FET provision into the future.

“QQI recognised how we have taken a lead nationally in developing apprenticeship programmes and in developed an integrated FET college of the future with the establishment of Kerry College.”

Director of FET

Sports and Beauty Therapy cross pillar post- primary school initiative for Kerry ETB

Ian McLoughlin and Tara O’Halloran Cronin

Kerry College is currently in the advanced stages of an exciting pilot programme aiming to create direct links between the post primary and further education and training (FET) sectors. This pilot programme is run through the Kerry College sports and beauty therapy departments.

The sports department are in the later stages of a fully certified QQI Level 4 Health Related Fitness Award within two post primary schools, which benefits both the learner and the schools involved.

Aimed at Transition Year students, this module acts as a great stepping stone to any student who wishes to complete physical education as a subject for the Leaving Certificate. On completion of the award, the students will have put together a collection of work focusing on both skills demonstrations and a portfolio. This will include the following:

• Functions and systems of the body

• Lifestyle research project

• Amenities research project

• Take part in a range of physical activities

• Compile a stress management pack

• Design a personal fitness plan

Furthermore, it ties in nicely with a school’s overall Healthy Wellbeing Programme.

This award aims to empower the students with the skills and knowledge of how to lead a healthy, active life now and in the future.

Within this initiative, Kerry College of Beauty engages with Transition Year and Leaving Certificate Applied Students at the post primary level, offering internationally recognised qualifications in beauty therapy.

Two core skill areas for the industry have been identified and will be internationally certified through globally recognised iTEC qualifications.

The programmes encapsulate industry skills and offer experience and awareness of the further technical work and knowledge within the beauty therapy industry for those who may wish to choose beauty therapy as a career choice following completion of post primary school.

It is currently being rolled out to engage learners with FET in makeup artistry and manicure work. Full-time students from the Kerry College of Beauty can work on projects such as the Junk Couture competition and develop their presentation, communication and portfolio of work assisting the program, allowing for a holistic and integrated connection for all participants.

Kerry College of Beauty currently have close to 100 students on our day, evening and shorter course programs and are a CIBTAC, ITEC and CIDESCO internationally accredited college.

Students from the Cross Pillar Post- Primary School Initiative

From Kherson to Kerry…

On the 24th of February 2022, Russia invaded my country, trying to establish its order and stop our path to European membership. Since then, the life of all Ukrainians has changed dramatically. When Russia launched a large-scale invasion of my country, Kherson where I live, was occupied in the first days, as it is located near Crimea, which has been occupied since 2014.

Having lived under the occupation for almost six months, my family and I decided to leave the city, because the Russians forces were making it impossible to live safely in the city. Ukrainians who clashed with the occupying forces were being killed. A colleague, the conductor of the philharmonic opera I sang with was shot for not agreeing to hold a concert on the “Russian National Flag Day” the 22rd August, 2022.

Our decision was swift. It was impossible to leave Kherson through Ukraine because of the city and surrounding territory was controlled by Russian forces. So, we had to take the risk of escaping through Crimea.

So, now I live now in Ballybunion and study in Kerry College (Listowel Campus). This is a new stage in my life. Naturally, I am not going to stop singing. I am a professional opera singer and singing is my passion. I have performed in St. John’s Theatre in Listowel and in the Tinteain in Ballybunion.

The poster for a future concert in Listowel, I created through desktop publisher in College. Our teachers are very good and friendly people. They always help us with everything. I am grateful to God, for the fact that at this difficult time, I live in Ireland and study in this Kerry College, Listowel Campus.

Maksym Lozovyi

The poster for a future concert in Listowel, which Maksym created in College

I am learning new skills in college that I will be able to integrate into my career. We study modules such as, graphics, web design, communication etc.

Wellbeing

Main Pictures: Coláiste Gleann Lí and Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí celebrating the launch of the Ethos Framework.

Wellbeing at Killorglin Community College

Samantha Nagle

This year’s wellbeing efforts are a combined effort of our Killorglin Community College Wellbeing Committee, especially two of our outstanding 6thyear students, Federica and Thomas, and the two TY groups as part of their YSI programme.

Our Student Wellbeing Committee, Beyond the Desk, have run various initiatives throughout the year, including a European Food Festival, Halloween Fancy Dress Day, an 8-weeklong introduction to Film Club and a Talent Show, among others.

We have two TY Young Social Innovator projects that are centred on wellbeing.

Firstly, we have the Local Hobby Lobby. These students encourage people to take up new hobbies to increase social interaction and improve overall mental health. Over the course of this year, they have run many lunchtime activities, including penalty shoot outs, quizzes, bingo games and a basketball knockout competition. They also ran a hugely successful World Cup class follow-along competition.

During the KCC Christmas event, they organised and facilitated team building for 2nd years and arts and crafts for 1st Years. In contrast, the other YSI team, named “Bridging the Generations”, ran a Spikeball tournament for 3rd years.

A whole school Wellbeing Week from February 20th to 24th. They are bringing in exciting workshops such as pottery, drum dance and yoga. They have liaised with staff to organise a mural walk, Zumba classes and more.

Our YSI group, Bridging the Generations, looks at mentorship and mens’ mental health. They have organised workshops on how to navigate conflict as well as nutrition and fitness. Inspired by the Men’s Sheds, our students recognise the value of building intergenerational connections. In anticipation of our school’s 40th anniversary, they have decided to begin an intergenerational project in which they reach out to our local community for the stories behind our archived photos.

Keep an eye on our Instagram for the launch of this ambitious project!

The TY Local Hobby Lobby group and their peers are about to embark on their most ambitious event series year.

Wellbeing Week at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí

Eibhlín

Ní Mhuircheartaigh

Rinneadh céiliúradh ar seachtain na folláine arís i mbliana, ghlac na scoláirí páirt i gceardlanna éagsúla. Bhí ceardlann analú le Eoin Burns ag an 5ú bliain, agus thóg rang na hArdteiste am amach as a gcuid staidéir chun páirt a ghlacadh i ranganna aireachais. Ghlac bliain 1,2,3 páirt in ranganna Zumba agus ranganna aclaíochta chomh maith le cainte ón ngrúpa LGBTI+ Shoutout. Chuir na scoláirí dathanna an bhogha báistí orthu féin freisin chun lá Bród na scoile a cheiliúradh.

Wellbeing week was celebrated in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí again this year, and students participated in various workshops. Breathing Coach Eoin Burns facilitated workshops for the 5th-year students while the 6th-year students took time out of their studies to participate in mindfulness classes. 1st, 2nd and 3rd-year students also participated in Zumba and exercise classes and talks from the LGBTI+ group Shoutout. Students donned their rainbow colours to celebrate our annual Pride Day in the school.

Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Wellbeing Week

Connect outdoors

Thomas Dillon

Listowel Youthreach participated in a bespoke ‘Connect Outdoors’ activity programme facilitated by Kerry College, Killorglin Campus, at Ballyseedy Woodlands.

The day-long activity programme required learners to work together to solve and overcome a series of creative team-building challenges.

These skills included; good communication, listening to one another, problem-solving, and working together as a group while encouraging and supporting each other.

Activities concluded with a group discussion and reflection around a campfire where learners reviewed their learnings from the day over a cup of tea and coffee.

Feedback was extremely positive, with a general consensus among the groups that they would be interested in similar outdoor programmes in the future.

Conditions on the day were very cold, but morale remained high mainly due to the fantastic staff from Cappanalae, who engaged and supported learners throughout the day. On behalf of Listowel Youthreach, we would like to thank Kerry ETB and Kerry College Killorglin Campus for coordinating the programme, which was very beneficial for our learners and staff.

Each challenge presented a unique set of tasks which required learners to work and develop key personal and social skills that promoted good teamwork.

Learners participating in a bespoke  ‘Connect Outdoors’ activity programme

Employee Assistance Service (EAS)

Provided by Spectrum.life

The Employee Assistance Service  (EAS) is a 24/7 free and confidential support service designed to assist you in dealing more effectively with any personal or workrelated problems you may be facing. The service is also available to your spouse, civil partner and dependants where the family member is over the age of 18 and residing in the family home.

The contact details are as follows-

EAS for Teachers & SNAs

Free Phone: 1800 411 057

SMS & WhatsApp Text ‘Hi’ to 087 369 0010

Email: eap@spectrum.life

EAS for Staff other than Teachers and SNA’s

Free Phone: 1800 814 243

SMS & WhatsApp: Text ‘Hi’ to 087 369 0010

Email: eap@spectrum.life

For more information, please go to Kerry ETB Policy SharePoint: HR:HR Policies: Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Service

Designated Contact Person (DCP)

The role of the Designated Contact Person (DCP) is to provide information in the form of a confidential, non-judgmental discussion, to any staff member in the organisation, who has concerns in relation to their working relationship(s). They are the first point of contact for staff members who feel they are being subjected to bullying and harassment behaviour and are seeking advice on how to proceed.

Contact can be made initially by phone, thereafter a person-toperson meeting will be arranged for a mutually acceptable time.

Kerry ETB Contact Persons

Elizabeth Forsyth Phone 066 71 93953

Email dcp@kerryetb.ie

Anne O’Connor Phone 066 71 93951

Email dcp@kerryetb.ie

Further information is available on Kerry ETB Policy SharePoint: HR:HR Policies:Wellbeing Folder:

Designated Contact Persons Pack

Single Public Service Pension Scheme

The Single Public Service Pension Scheme (“Single Pension Scheme”) started on 1st January 2013.

If you joined the public service for the first time on or after 1st January 2013 in a pensionable capacity, in general terms this is the Scheme that applies to you. This Scheme is an occupational pension scheme for public servants. It means that your contributions are not invested in the stock market and the Exchequer supports Kerry ETB in paying your benefits under the Scheme.

It is a defined benefit scheme, with retirement benefits based on careeraverage pay (not final salary). This means that your retirement benefits (pension and lump sum) are based on a % of your pensionable earnings throughout your public service career as a member of the Scheme. For each pay period that you contribute to the Scheme, you build up an amount towards your retirement benefits. The total of these amounts at retirement, with some adjustments for increase in inflation for the amounts earned earlier in your career, determines what your retirement benefits will be.

The contributions paid by you on a fortnightly or monthly basis in relation to your pensionable service are: 3.5% of gross pensionable remuneration plus 3.5% of net pensionable remuneration. The maximum compulsory retirement age in the Single Scheme is age 70.

For further details please log on to www.singlepensionscheme.gov.ie

“After a brain injury left me unable to read and write, I visited the Kerry ETB Adult Basic Education Centre in Killarney. I only intended to go for the interview because Brain Injury Ireland insisted I went in.

Eight years later, I still attend there twice a week and I love it.

The support and everything I have got there is amazing. I have learnt so much and now I have the confidence to support other people to do the same.”

Judy Leen, Kerry ETB Learner

Head Office Kerry Education and Training Board, Centrepoint,John Joe Sheehy Road, Tralee, Co. Kerry, V92 P2FE

Telephone 066 719 3900 / 066 712 1488

Email info@kerryetb.ie

Education Centres’ Contact Details

Please visit our website www.kerryetb.ie