AAnnnnuuaall RReeppoorrtt 22001155
Locations Map
Page 1 Annual Report 2015
Contents
Section One Introduction
Foreword by Chairperson and Chief Executive Page 5
Education and Training Board Members Page 6
Vision Page 7
Mission Statement Page 7
Organisational Values Page 7
Management Team Page 8
Overview of 2015 Page 9
Section Two Service Report
Overview of Services Page 13
Second Level Schools and Colleges Page 15
Adult Education Service Page 32
Section Three Corporate Governance
Role of ETB Board Page 47
Audit Committee Page 47
Finance Committee Page 47
Internal Controls Page 47
Section Four Financial Report
Annual Financial Statement 2013-2014 Page 49
Travel and Subsistence Expenses Page 50
Section Five Human Resource Report
Staff Profile Page 53
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Page 3 Annual Report 2015
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Foreword
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board is pleased to present its Annual Report for 2015. This report provides an opportunity to highlight the comprehensive range of activities undertaken by Kilkenny and Carlow schools, centres and services during the past twelve months. The report also sets out the related financial and corporate governance aspects of the work of the ETB during the year.
The Education and Training Boards Act came into effect on 1st July 2013 and ushered in a period of significant change for the organisation and management of our work in the Education and Training Board. It has involved reorganisation and realignment of our work throughout the ETB most especially in the relation to our administration services.
During 2015 the focus of the organisation remained constant as we sought to provide the highest quality lifelong learning opportunities for all our students. The increasing number of students attending our schools and our adult and further education programmes is testament to the ongoing success of our work.
Gratitude is extended to all our staff throughout the organisation who have worked to ensure that students and learners are supported effectively as they progress on their educational journey.
We would like to pay tribute to the executive team and all the staff of Kilkenny and Carlow ETB for their support and commitment during the year. I would also like to thank our board members for their stewardship of the organisation and for their participation on various sub-committees. The contribution of each member of the organisation has served to enhance the work of our schools, centres and services.
Míle buíochas go léir
Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh Cynthia Deane Chairperson Chief Executive Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board
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Members of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board 2015
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board Members Cllr Anne Ahern (Carlow Co. Co.), Alice Bennett, Gerard Brophy, Cllr Fergal Browne (Carlow Co. Co.), Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh (Kilkenny Co. Co), Cllr Peter Cleere (Kilkenny Co. Co), Michael Daly, Cllr Fidelis Doherty (Kilkenny Co. Co), Cllr Matt Doran (Kilkenny Co. Co), Cllr Denis Foley (Carlow Co. Co.), Cllr Ger Frisby (Kilkenny Co. Co), Cllr Breda Gardner (Kilkenny Co. Co), Karen Hennessy, Elaine Kearns, Richie Manogue, Cllr Patrick McKee (Kilkenny Co. Co), Caitlín Mhic Cárthaigh, Cllr Jennifer Murnane O’Connor (Carlow Co. Co.), Eleanor Reddy, Keith Shirley, Cllr Maurice Shortall (Kilkenny Co. Co), Sean Warren
Committees and Working Groups The Board has established a number of Committees as follows:
Audit Committee:
Cllr Fergal Browne, Mary B Brennan, Michael Daly, Mary Dillon, Edward Holohan, Cllr Maurice Shortall
Finance Committee: Cllr Anne Ahern, Mary B Brennan, Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh, Cllr Peter Cleere, Cllr Denis Foley.
In addition, each School has its own Board of Management.
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Vision The vision of Kilkenny and Carlow ETB is to be a listening and learning organisation which promotes lifelong learning.
Mission The mission of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board is to be a key provider of high quality, inclusive, innovative and flexible education opportunities and support services that enable young people and adults to reach their full potential in their personal and family lives, in their chosen careers, and as active members of their local community and society.
Organisational values
The following core values underpin and guide the work of Kilkenny and Carlow ETB:
To place the learner at the centre of all our work To promote quality teaching and learning and support To engage in building positive, respectful relationships To value and respect all staff and learners To promote a culture of equality and justice To be responsive in our approach and promote innovation and partnership
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Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board Organisational Structure
Kilkenny and Carlow ETB operates across the two counties of Kilkenny and Carlow with its head office in Carlow and a further office in Kilkenny.
Kilkenny and Carlow ETB management team is led by the Chief Executive and the Education Officer . It comprises of an Education Team which includes a Second Level and Adult Education Team and an Administration Team. These teams have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the various sections of the ETB.
Cynthia Deane Chief Executive
Eileen Curtis Education Officer
School Principals Adult Education Officer Assistant Principal Deputy Principals Co-ordinators/ Officers Facilitators Heads of Sections
School Team Adult Education Team Administration Team
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Overview of 2015
The 2015 year was a very significant and busy year for Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board as new systems and structures were embedded within the organisation. It was a year of further change and development which involved changes in personnel, systems and services. These new challenges within the organisation were given effect while also ensuring that all education and support services to our learners were maintained as normal.
ETB Management and Planning In 2015 the process of enhancing systems and processes continued as the administration teams were consolidated. The administrative teams are as follows: Carlow Office (Head Office) Finance, Accounts and Corporate Governance Payroll and Pensions
Kilkenny Office Human Resources Corporate Services
The teams were led by senior managers under the direction of the Chief Executive and Education Officer. At each stage of the reorganisation process a risk analysis was undertaken to ensure service continuity and to avoid disruption to services. During the year the Head of Human Resources and the two Heads of Finance and Administration retired from service leaving a series of critical vacancies within the organisational team. This led to the filling of posts in Human Resources, Finance and an Adult Education Officer post. In addition discussions took place with the Department of Education and Skills in respect of a senior management structure for ETBs which would include directorates in Schools, Further Education and Training and Organisation Support and Development.
ETB Governance The ETB board completed its first full year in 2015 during which period the Code of Practice for the Governance of Education and Training Boards was published. A full briefing was provided to board members on the requirements within the Code of Practice on 2nd April 2015.
Interview training was provided for Board Members and Staff on 27th and 28th January 2015.
The Board also appointed a Finance Committee and an Audit Committee both of which commenced their work with a training briefing on 21st December 2015.
New Boards of Management were appointed to all our schools and representatives were nominated to the governing body of Waterford Institute of Technology and Institute of Technology Carlow. The Carlow Music Generation committee was also appointed. Freedom of Information legislation extended to the ETB during the year and training was provided for staff on 12th May 2015. Training was also provided for staff in Manual Handling and First Aid.
Second Level Activities The ETB schools in Kilkenny and Carlow continued to grow and develop with an increase in enrolment in a number of schools.
Schools continued to participate in School Development Planning and DEIS planning and a number of subject and incidental inspections took place. Schools continue to strive to enhance the quality of teaching and learning taking place. A further two schools commenced the TL21 Teaching and Learning Initiative. All schools are involved in formulating School Improvement Plans and have identified future priorities. Schools continue to achieve excellent results in both Junior and Leaving Certificate examinations.
Students in all schools were commended on their participation in various extra-curricular activities including sports, drama, debating, Gaísce Awards, Young Scientist, etc. and many received particular recognition for their achievements. Students and staff are congratulated for their ongoing commitment to and support for a wide range of activities.
The Senior Management Team Spring Conference took place on 12th and 13th March 2015. At the Spring Conference in 2015 speakers included Dr. Finn Ó Murchú, a Senior Inspector from the Department of Education and Skills with responsibility for Special Education, Dr. Ó Murchú discussed Leading Teaching and Learning: The Perspective of the Inspectorate; Ms Mary Cullen, Insight HR gave a talk on Effective Staff Recruitment and Selection; Dr. Pádraig Hogan, Education Department Maynooth University, presented The TL21 Programme and Participatory CPD; Travelling a Road Less Travelled; Ms. Lisa Carroll, Worksafe Solutions gave a talk on Ensuring Compliance with Health and Safety Legislation in a School/Centre Environment.
Training was provided for new board of management members on 24th and 25th of November in Carlow and Kilkenny respectively. Child Protection Training was attended by board members on 24th February in Waterford and on 10th March in Kilkenny.
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The inaugural Schools Debating competition was held on 26th March with the winning team coming from Abbey Community College.
The Student of the Year Awards were presented on 11th September 2015. A student from each school was nominated for an award for their achievements and overall contribution to school life.
A significant highlight of the year was the turning of the sod for the new two school campus in Carlow on 4th November by Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O’Sullivan TD. The second level school to be called Tyndall College and the Further Education and Training College will each provide for an enrolment of 1,000 students,
In addition, as part of the capital programme Minister O’Sullivan also announced a two school campus for Kilkenny, a new community college and a new building for Coláiste Pobail Osraí.
Nine members of staff retired from Kilkenny and Carlow ETB during 2015 and were acknowledged at a function in the Dolmen Hotel, Carlow on 21 January 2016. Each was acknowledged for their work in their own school/centre and thanked for their contribution to the scheme.
The activities of schools/centres/services are highlighted in the section relating to each.
Adult and Further Education Activities 2015 continued to be a year of change in the Adult and Further Education sector with major changes in the process of application for funding to SOLAS for all programmes. In addition the interim protocol with the Department of Social Protection was reviewed across the ETB. KCETB personnel participated in all fora relating to the advancement of key policy priorities as set out in the ‘Action Plan for Jobs’ (2012), the ‘Pathways to Work Initiative’ (2012) and the ‘Strategic Review of Further Education and Training and the Unemployed’ (NESC, 2013). Work also commenced on ensuring greater employer engagement in respect of local skill needs. KCETB was also involved in the rollout of Programme Learner Support Service.
The demand for places on all Adult and Further Education Programmes remained high during 2015. There was a particularly high demand within the Adult Guidance Service as prospective learners sought options for upskilling and returning to education.
Demand for Post-Leaving Certificate places continued with 1,131 students participating on a range of QQI Level 5 programmes in schools in both Carlow and Kilkenny. In 2015 there was a continuing demand for places in VTOS and Youthreach. Learners completed a broad range of certified programmes in the various centres including Leaving Certificate Applied programme, QQI Level 3, 4, 5 programmes. In addition learners undertook many educational visits and were involved in a wide range of displays and activities.
Part-time courses were offered through BTEI, Community Education and Literacy services – Healthcare, Childcare, Horticulture and Sport and Recreation programmes continued to be in high demand with large numbers of students achieving major and minor awards from QQI at levels 3 to 6. A range of literacy provision was available centrally in Kilkenny and Carlow and also in a number of out-centres across both counties. Students participated in the NALA Student Day and in a range of activities to promote Adult Literacy Awareness Week. Group and one to one tuition continued to be provided to respond to learner need. Community Education courses were provided in a range of community settings and specific initiatives this year included the Diageo Learning for Life Programme, Community Coaching Programme and the Learning Works Programme.
Each service recognised the work of learners through a variety of award evenings and activities and were involved in a range of promotional work on local radio, newspapers and social media. During the year substantial work took place in planning for the transfer of training functions to KCETB from Waterford and Wexford ETB. A number of staff were involved in the planning process and met regularly during the year in preparation for the final transfer date in 2016.
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Building Projects During 2015 Kilkenny and Carlow ETB undertook a number of refurbishments/building projects. They included the following:-
Abbey Community College The work on the new extension for the school continued and will be ready to open in September 2016.
Scoil Aireagail – Mechanical Upgrade Tender documents were published in April 2016 with a view to completing the works in summer 2016.
Coláiste Eoin – New Entrance System Currently awaiting planning permission to carry out the proposed changes to the entrance of the school.
Coláiste Mhuire - New classrooms and ASD Unit Sanction was granted from the Department of Education and Skills for the acquisition of land to extend Coláiste Mhuire. A full design team has been appointed.
GC Leisure – New Gymnasium All works at GC Leisure are now complete and the gymnasium opened for use to the student body in December 2015.
Borris Vocational School The school received sanction from the Department of Education and Skills for additional accommodation and an ASD unit.
Carlow Vocational School/Carlow Institute of Further Education The Department of Education and Skills sanctioned the development of two 1.000 pupil schools in Carlow under the Public/Private Partnership Model, one mainstream school and one College of Further Education. The building of the two schools is being progressed by the NDFA. The turning of the sod for the advance work took place on the 4th November 2015 with work commencing the following day.
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Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) is a statutory local education authority operating under the terms of the Education and Training Boards Act 2013 and other relevant legislation.
It provides a comprehensive range of quality education programmes and supports designed to meet the needs of young people and adults throughout Kilkenny and Carlow. It has developed a range of educational provision to address the diverse and ever changing demands of learners. Today, Kilkenny and Carlow ETB runs thirteen second level schools, an extensive adult education service and a range of post-leaving certificate courses. It is involved in many partnership activities at local level and provides a range of educational supports to enhance the quality of its education programmes.
Second Level Education Kilkenny and Carlow ETB now has responsibility for thirteen second-level schools. These schools are co-educational and non- denominational. They are: Abbey Community College, Ferrybank Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh Borris Vocational School Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach Carlow Vocational School and Institute of FE Grennan College, Thomastown Coláiste Cois Siúire, Mooncoin Kilkenny City Vocational School, Kilkenny Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown Muine Bheag Vocational School Coláiste Mhuire, Johnstown Scoil Aireagail, Ballyhale Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Cill Chainnigh
The aim of the second level schools is to provide a quality, inclusive, holistic education that will enable each individual to reach his/her full potential so that each learner may lead a fulfilling life and contribute to the development of society. The school communities strive to achieve these aims with professional, collaborative staff by offering: an extensive curriculum, catering for the spiritual, moral, intellectual, physical, social, personal and aesthetic development of learners a co-curricular education programme a pastoral care programme
The schools in Kilkenny and Carlow ETB were founded as a response to local educational need and this tradition of meeting the needs of learners is ever present throughout the school community. The innovation and management of change is clear from the range of programmes on offer.
Partnership is also a key concept in the development of our schools and is apparent in our active Student Councils and Parents’ Associations. We also work in partnership with other stakeholders, particularly in the religious, youth, sport, community development and business sectors, to enhance the educational experiences of our students.
All schools offer the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate Programmes and a range of the following:
Second Level Provision School Programmes Offered J.C. J.C.S.P. T.Y. L.C. L.C.A. L.C.V.P PLC Abbey Community College, Ferrybank √ √ √ √ Borris Vocational School √ √ √ √ Carlow Vocational School √ √ √ √ Coláiste Cois Siúire, Mooncoin √ √ √ Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown √ √ √ √ √ Coláiste Mhuire, Johnstown √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Kilkenny √ √ √ √ Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh √ √ √ √ √ √ Gaelccholáiste Cheatharlach √ √ √ √ Grennan College, Thomastown √ √ √ √ √ Kilkenny City Vocational School √ √ √ √ √ Muine Bheag Vocational School √ √ √ √ √ √ Scoil Aireagail, Ballyhale √ √ √ √ Junior Certificate Schools Programme (J.C.S.P.); Transition Year Programme (T.Y.); Leaving Certificate Applied (L.C.A.); Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (L.C.V.P.); Post-Leaving Certificate (P.L.C.)
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board continues to provide a broad range of programmes throughout its schools. In addition to the Junior and Leaving Certificate Programmes schools also offer specialised programmes like the Junior Certificate Schools Programme, Leaving Certificate Applied and the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme.
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Second Level Enrolments School 2015/2016 Abbey Community College, Ferrybank 802 Borris Vocational School 506 Carlow Vocational School 233 Coláiste Cois Siúire, Mooncoin 145 Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown 214 Coláiste Mhuire, Johnstown 502 Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Kilkenny 209 Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh 132 Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach 368 Grennan College, Thomastown 336 Kilkenny City Vocational School 146 Muine Bheag Vocational School 120 Scoil Aireagail, Ballyhale 178 Total 3891
Post Leaving Certificate Enrolments School 2015/2016 Abbey Community College, Ferrybank n/a Borris Vocational School n/a Carlow Vocational School 722 Coláiste Cois Siúire, Mooncoin n/a Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown 19 Coláiste Mhuire, Johnstown 11 Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Kilkenny n/a Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh 34 Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach n/a Grennan College, Thomastown 43 Kilkenny City Vocational School/Ormonde College of Further Education 264 Muine Bheag Vocational School 97 Scoil Aireagail, Ballyhale 12 Total 1202
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Abbey Community College Ferrybank, Via Waterford T: 051 832930 F: 051-851110 E: [email protected] Abbey Community College, established under the trusteeship of the Sacred Heart of Mary Sisters and Co. Kilkenny VEC, opened in 2000. It is committed to enriching through education the lives of the people in its care. Students of Abbey Community College can access a rapidly expanding curriculum from which they may choose a wide variety of subjects, both practical and academic. Pastoral Care is an integral part of the holistic education offered in the school and is catered for through a Year Head System, a Peer Support Scheme, the Chaplaincy, Guidance Counselling and Learning Support Education. Mission Statement Consistent with its obligations under national legislation the mission of Abbey Community College is to educate in a reflective way with an emphasis on the development of the whole person, thereby enabling the student to participate fully in society and to live a fulfilling life. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 464 Senior Cycle 210 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme(LCVP) 128 Total 802 Board of Management Cllr. Gerard Frisby, (Chairperson) ETB Board Member Ms. Eleanor Ui Cathain (Staff Representative) Cllr. Fidelis Doherty ETB Board Member Mr. Stephen Dunne (Staff Representative) Ms Elaine Kearns, ETB Board Member Mr. Paul Grace (Parent Representative) Ms. Emma Mulligan (Parent Representative) SHM Trustee Representatives: Mr. Richard Dowling, Sr. Ursula Canavan, Brother Denis Minehane Highlights Academic Success: Abbey Community College began the new academic year by celebrating outstanding successes in the Leaving and Junior Cert Exams. Two Leaving Cert students were recipients of Entrance Scholarships to University of Limerick and University College Dublin. Vision Group: In preparation for the move into our extended school in August 2016, a group was established from within the staff to re-visit the Vision, Mission and Aims of our growing college. Their work is ongoing and reported back to the full staff regularly. Justice Group: In line with our renewed Proclamation for 2016, in November, the Justice Group began working on the issue of homelessness in Ireland when they were invited to spend an afternoon with The High Hopes Choir in the Edmund Rice Centre. This opportunity opened their eyes to the current homeless crisis, and was the day they decided that it was time to speak out and act against such injustice. They hosted a concert with the High Hopes Choir and the Island of Ireland Peace Choir in December. They fundraised within the school community and presented the choir and SVP with €1600 Homeless Support: The launch of the One Campaign for Change in the Abbey welcomed students from 8 Post Primary Schools from Cork, Kilkenny and Wexford, the High Hopes Choir, Deputies John Paul Phelan and Bobby Aylward, Superintendent John Mulligan, Cllr. Eamon Quinlan, Cllr. Ger Frisby, representatives from Focus Ireland and Saint Vincent de Paul. A fantastic student-led initiative continues into 2016-17. Cycle Against Suicide: As a host school this year, we welcomed approximately 1,000 cyclists to Waterford on Wednesday 4th May and hosted the overnight stop that evening. The next morning Abbey Community College, together with Cycle Against Suicide, organised a mental health event comprising of presentations, videos, music, celebrity speakers and an exhibition of local mental health organisations. We were delighted to have the campaign endorsed by past pupil, Craig Breen and Enda O’Doherty (the Washing Machine Man).The Cycle then made its way to New Ross for the afternoon stop, before arriving in Wexford that evening. A number of Abbey C.C. students and staff participated in the cycle from Ferrybank to New Ross. We were delighted to be acclaimed as an anchor school for this worthy cause. European Studies: From March 17th – 19th, Niamh O'Brien, Michelle Murphy and Craig Smith, accompanied by European Studies teacher, Mrs. Donegan, attended a discussion group called ‘Your Europe Your Say’ in the European Economic and Social Committee, in Brussels. The discussion was on the topic of migration in Europe. The EESC were eager to ensure that the ideas and views of Europe’s younger generation on the topic of refugees entering Europe were heard. Three students from each country in Europe, as well as students from each of the five candidate countries, attended the programme. Our school, Abbey Community College, was selected to represent Ireland Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 51.04 Special Needs Assistants 2.75 Administrative Staff 1.5 Support Staff 3.59 Total 58.88 Principal: Ms. Detta Cahill Deputy Principal: Mr. Colm Rice
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Borris Vocational School Borris, Co. Carlow T: 059 9773155 F: 059 977 3627 E: [email protected] Borris Vocational School opened in 1939 The school serves a large area which includes Borris, Ballymurphy, Newtown, Rathanna, Glynn, St. Mullins, Ballinkillen, Goresbridge, Skeoughvosteen, Gowran, Garryhill & Drumphea. We provide a complete and comprehensive system of education which combines instruction in languages, sciences and the humanities with the technical and technological skills so necessary in our modern world.
Mission Statement To create a caring inclusive Christian environment where each individual is encouraged to develop a sense of honesty, tolerance and responsibility and in which everybody acquires self-confidence to achieve his or her full potential. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 261 Senior Cycle 175 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) 70 Total 506 Board of Management Cllr. Denis Foley (Chairperson – ETB Member) Mrs Marian O’Sullivan (Parent Representative) Cllr. Peter Cleere (ETB Member) Mr. Shane Gallagher (Staff Representative) Cllr Jennifer Murnane-O’Connor (ETB Member) Ms Mary Clare Hogan (Staff Representative) Mr. James Behan (Parent Representative) Community Representatives: Mr Fergal Murphy, Fr. Pierce Murphy, Ms Lily Holmes Highlights The overall results in the State Examinations were of a very high standard. Arts: Partnership with Music Generation the Music @ Mount Leinster Music Festival was held in the school, Maeve Fortune 5th Yr Shortlisted for Best Short Scene Award at Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards. Anna Hogan (6th Yr) Shortlisted for Hot Press Write Here Write Now competition. School Concert took place to full houses. The Junior Choir performed at Collins Barracks on Easter Sunday as Part of a Nation’s Voice, with RTE Concert Orchestra. Variety of students performed at Music Generation Gala Concert. Transition Years made two films as part of 1916 commemoration, to critical acclaim. Languages: The 5th Yr French Language Exchange Programme with a school in Toulouse took place for the second year as did the Residential trip for 2nd Years to West Kerry Gaeltacht. 15 Spanish students participated in a 5-week English language immersion programme in the school. STEM: New printers purchased for school. 65 TY students participated in the EA Robot challenge. Sport: Senior Hurlers still performing at A Colleges Level. U19 soccer team won Carlow-Kilkenny League & reached Leinster Final. School team finished 1st in All-Ireland Schools Showjumping competition. Minor, Junior and Senior Camogie teams all playing at A Colleges Level. Gold Medals won in All Ireland Inter-Schools Rowing and in Leinster Athletics. Active week was a great success. Badminton and Basketball teams all did very well. Showjumping Team Borris Vocational School joint winners of the turnout league. Senior Hunter Trials team came 3rd in Ireland. Achievements and Awards were presented by Mark Pollock at the end of year ceremony. School awarded Green Flag. Green Schools Committee membership reached 72 members. Garden Club very busy. TY class travelled to Rome/Pompeii for an activity-filled four days. Very positive DES Inspection Reports issued following inspections in LCVP and Irish. The school was sanctioned an ASD Special Class which opened in September 2015. The SEN Altered Provision Programme was piloted in the school, as was a pilot in the Revised Allocation Model for Additional Teaching Resources. A Pilot for e- Portfolios for Transition Year is also ongoing. The Parents Association organised a Christmas Bazaar and a Fashion Show which were both very successful. It also coordinated the revision and improvement, fitting, ordering and distribution of new PE uniform tops. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 35.85 Special Needs Assistants 3 Administrative Staff 1.5 Support Staff 2.8 Total 43.15 Principal: Mr. John O’Sullivan Deputy Principal Ms. Olivia Kennedy
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Carlow Vocational School Kilkenny Road, Carlow T: 059 9131187 F: 059 9143521 E:[email protected] Carlow Vocational School was opened in 1923 and has served the learning needs of students from Carlow town and its environs for many years. The school is part of the ‘Delivering Equality of Education in Schools’ (DEIS) programme and provides a broad and balanced post-primary curriculum.
Mission Statement “Administration, Staff and parents at Carlow Vocational School seek to promote a secure and caring community environment and a balanced curriculum which is student centred with parents recognised as the first educators and teachers as facilitators of the learning process. In partnership, we hope to provide an atmosphere which encourages respect, responsibility and commitment, drawing forth the positive potential of each individual, thus equipping all students to take their place in life and work in the future.”
School Enrolment Junior Certificate Schools Programme (JCSP) 107 Senior Cycle 97 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) 29 Post Leaving Certificate 680 Total 913 Board of Management Brid Griffin (Chairperson - Staff Representative) Pat Kinsella (Staff Representative) Anne Ahearn (ETB Representative) Irene O’Brien (Parent Representative) Denis Foley (ETB Representative) Robert Sheehan (Parent Representative) Keith Shirley (ETB Representative) Markita Mulvey (Secretary) Noel Barcoe (Business Representative) Bridget Sheehan (Recording Secretary) Noreen Whelan (Community Representative) Highlights Development Education. Carlow Vocational school received a ‘Diplomatic Passport’ award from Worldwise Global Schools (WGS) at their Annual Conference in Thomond Park Limerick. This award was in recognition for the great project work carried out in Development Education across the school. Projects included construction of a recycled greenhouse in Geography with Mr Byrne, ‘Climate Change’ workshops, building of environmentally friendly housing in Construction, lessons on climate change in Spanish, Irish, French and German, comparison of developed and developing countries, in particular Bali where the school has a global connection with a sustainable school there with Ms. McAssey, who volunteers to work there each year. A ‘Climate Change’ week was held across the school with the students creating posters and slogans and there also was a screening of a ‘Drop in the Ocean’ video across the whole student body. The caption for the climate change week was chosen by the students who decided to adopt Leonardo DiCaprio’s words from his acceptance speech at this year’s Oscars, "Let's not take this planet for granted".
1916 Rising Commemoration. To celebrate the 1916 Rising the school integrated a lot of very different activities across a wide variety of subjects. Our Proclamation Day celebration was held at the front of the school, on Tuesday 15 March 2016. As part of our reflection on the events of a hundred years ago, we wanted to write a new Proclamation for 2016. All the students in Carlow Vocational School were asked to contribute, and this work was collected together and joined into a new Proclamation, which captures our vision for a modern Ireland. In addition, the school was involved, with thirteen KCETB schools, in displaying and presenting the work we have carried out in the school during the year to commemorate the 1916 Rising.
The Board of Management contacted Dr Conor Kostick and asked him to donate his recently published book on Michael O’Hanrahan to the school. This book will be the first book in the new school library of Tyndall College, opening 2017.
CVS Schools to Business Programme. Carlow Vocational School actively participated in the Schools to Business Programme this year. As a school, we are very lucky to be linked with Mr Eamon Brophy and his team in the Carlow Local Authority. Under the guidance of Ms Clodagh Gorman Regional Co-Coordinator schools business partnership and their link teacher Mr S Kelly supported by Ms S O’Keeffe, SCP, all 5th year students successfully completed the programme.
Music Project. Music Generation continued in the school for a second year, all first year students attended brass and woodwind classes each Thursday. Ten scholarships were awarded for second year students to continue their lessons for another year. Thirty of our first and second year students performed as a brass and woodwind band in an inter-school gala concert in the George Bernard Shaw theatre in May; accompanied by the fifth year rock band of Daragh Dooley, Oran Lawlor, Aaron Moore, Dean Moore, Daragh Mullaly, Conor Collins, Ruth Sheehan and Donna McEvoy. Other activities included: a Christmas production which was held in the school as a cross-curricular drama/music performance involving all students and including solo and group performances; workshops in recording and production techniques were given to transition year and fifth year students; two trips to Bord Gais Energy theatre for the musical production of ‘Guys and Dolls’ and ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.
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The Greens Schools Committee. This committee is made up of students from each year group and their hard work has paid off as the school received its ‘Energy’ flag this year. The focus for this current year is “Water Conservation”, and students began working on a two- year cycle, we hope to have our ‘Water’ flag next year.
Sport. The school had a very successful year in athletics. At the annual ETB Athletics competition we won one gold medal, thirteen silver medals and five bronze medals. Students also won medals in the Three County League (Carlow, Kildare and Laois) cross-county. Our minor boys came second and the senior girls came third.
In the Irish schools athletics championship Viviana Sartori (6 year), pole vault, and Cody Tunstead (2 year) shot putt, have both qualified for the All-Ireland Finals in June. Both athletes had to qualify from the South Leinster and then the Leinster Competition to get to this stage. We wish them every success!
Other sports activities include: the volleyball boys’ senior team fought their way to the All-Ireland quarter final, where they narrowly missed out on a semi-final match; a new basketball team was set up in the school for cadet and junior students, we have big hopes for the future!
Enterprise / Mini Company Competition. Transition year students worked on a number of mini-enterprise projects creating various mini- companies. They entered the Carlow Enterprise Award competition, which this year was held in the Seven Oaks Hotel. The ‘Carlow Calendar Company’, run by Jake Kelly and Joseph McNally, won an award and also made €1,200 profit!
DES Inspection. A DES inspection was carried out, on 14 September 2015, which focussed on the quality of teaching and learning in Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) and Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE). The report was very positive and outlined the excellent practices within this subject area. A copy of the report is available from Department of Education and Skills website.
Carlow Institute of Further Education Kilkenny Road, Carlow T: 059 9131187 F: 059 9143521 E: [email protected] Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training is the largest Further Education College in southeast Leinster. Operated under the auspices of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training board, the Institute can trace its history back to the late eighteen hundreds, when classes commenced at various locations in Carlow town under Technical Instruction Act of 1898. Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training is privileged to continue to provide educational opportunities for generations of families coming from Carlow town and environs. The Institute has an excellent reputation both regionally and nationally as a highly successful provider of further education and training. Mission Statement We will inspire success for our learning community by: . Delivering a first class, high quality education and training experience . Supporting access, personal development, education, skills acquisition and progression . Serving a uniquely diverse cohort of students to achieve and providing a welcoming, inclusive, supportive and responsive learning environment . Adding value for our students, our staff and to our communities . Enabling individuals and communities to achieve their developmental, personal, social, career and employment aspirations . Improving the wellbeing of individuals, communities and enterprises . Promoting innovation and collaboration to enhance the social, economic and cultural development of our region . Supporting progression to employment, Further Education and Higher Education . Fostering creative, collegial and positive partnerships amongst staff Highlights Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training continued to expand its provision, serve a diverse range of occupational study area to meet the needs of local and regional learners and other stakeholders. The Institute provides 45 full-time courses in the areas of Art, Craft & Media, Agriculture Science and Computing, Business and Administration, Construction and Built Environment, Education Health and Welfare, Services and Tourism, Hospitality and Sports. The majority of courses lead to QQI Level 5 or QQI Level 6 qualifications, with additional awards including industry-recognised qualifications from ITEC, CIBTAC, GAA, CIDESCO and NCEF. In 2015, 737 students achieved certification at Level 5 (full major awards, 328), and 74 (full major award, 60) at Level 6. Carlow Institute also offers part-time accredited courses and leisure course as part of its evening school provision. Provision is evaluated and monitored on a cyclical basis as part of the institute’s quality assurance process, with regular programme development and review informing all planning.
Strategic Planning With the advance works for the new Carlow Campus of KCETB now complete, we look forward to the commencement of the new building projects for Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training and Tyndall College. To prepare for our exciting future, the Further Education staff has been facilitated to participate in a series of strategic planning events, including the development of a five-year strategic vision, and review and updating of key policy statements that will underpin all activity. Staff groups have worked to review all aspects of provision, including student experience, curriculum
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provision and assessment, progression, industry links and quality assurance. This highly focused and productive process has identified many exciting opportunities to enhance opportunities for students and other stakeholders, and will be featured in five-year strategic cycle.
HE Links Our provision is planned to provide opportunities for students to progress to work and to Further and Higher education. For many students, FE fulltime courses are a first choice option, allowing time to develop knowledge and skills to facilitate their progression to Higher Education. In order to maximise progression opportunities we continue to formalise our links with partner Higher Education Institutions, in particular IT Carlow and Waterford IT. The majority of our courses are mapped to progression opportunities, with favourable CAO ‘Round Zero’ offers made to qualifying Level 5 completers, and, as a very progressive development, advanced entry to Year 2 of Degree programmes for qualifying completers of selected Level 6 courses. Our course co-ordinators and Guidance Counsellors continue to support this development, with many students attending progression workshops at the partner HEIs.
Student Experience, Visits and Events As ever, our Student Council is a central focus for the Institute, affording valuable insights into the student experience, and helping us tailor provision to meet student needs. Many courses organised visits to relevant work places and events, including observations at Dublin Criminal Court and Circuit Court sittings for Legal Studies students, business practitioner visits for Complementary Therapies students, Hairdressing students attended the IHF Hair Skills Hub in Dublin, field visits to kennels, Dublin Zoo and other centres for Animal Care students, observational visits to community crèches for Childcare students are amongst many examples of extra events organised by course teams for their students. Various events took place during the year, a highlight being a fundraising auction of many beautiful craft-pieces made by the Furniture Design and Making students. Local auctioneer, Eoin Kehoe kindly volunteered to oversee the bidding, with great results. The students organised this auction as a fundraiser for schools in Mali that Carlow Vocational School teacher Bridget McAssey volunteers with each summer – a great cause, and a fantastic effort by the Furniture Design and Making students and their course team. The annual Open Day was held on 16th March 2016, and all FE staff participated in promoting the Institute to a wide range of prospective students, many of whom travelled far to visit us.
VISUAL/George Bernard Shaw We are very fortunate to have a world-class Arts resource in Carlow, and as part of our strategic engagement, Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training has developed a partnership with VISUAL/George Bernard Shaw. Our Creative and Performing Arts curriculum is very popular, and highly successful, and this link allows our students and staff to work with and in an outstanding professional context. Our art students have participated in drawing workshops through the year in the gallery, and our Music, Music Technology and Media students have been involved in workshops and work experience as part of the theatre. A particular highlight has been the Rock Concert, one of several, produced by the Music course at GBS – a fantastic evening, with stunning performances and excellent production. We hope to develop these links further and to announce further events and performances next year.
Sports Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training student teams have enjoyed great success this year, especially in soccer. The soccer team competed in the CUFL division 4, reaching the semi-final, and the semi-final of the Bob Eustace CFAI cup. Working with David Morey and Dot Byrne, the team played incredibly well, and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students and their coaches. In addition, our GAA team Seamus Kelly and Pat Whelan brought the Institute’s GAA team to play a FET match in Limerick. Our sports programmes continue to link with HE, and have access to facilities and training workshops with IT Carlow.
Industry updating and external engagement Staff members at Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training have been involved in much CPD and training throughout the year, particularly engaging with industry. IT staff have attended updating with various organisations, including IBM, and are working with FIT (Fast-track to IT) to develop business engagement links for our IT-related programmes. Other staff updating has included the Beauty Therapy and Hairdressing teams, NCSE training for Childcare-education teachers, training in new MIS systems for all staff, which are just some of many examples. In external organisation engagement, Bríd Griffin attended the TUI FE advisory council meeting in October, and Markita Mulvey and David Forde participate as members of the NAPD FE committee. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 59.95 Special Needs Assistants 2 Administrative Staff 5 Support Staff 9 Total 75.95 Principal: Ms. Markita Mulvey Deputy Principals Dr. Nigel Quirke Bolt Mr. David Forde
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Coláiste Cois Siúire Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny T: 051-895112 F: 051 895817 E: [email protected] Coláiste Cois Siúire opened in September 1993, replacing the old Vocational School, to meet the second level educational needs for the South Kilkenny areas of Mooncoin, Kilmacow, Mullinavat, Piltown and Templeorum. The school is a non-selective, non-denominational, co- educational school, which aims to promote the total development of each individual student. Coláiste Cois Siúire provides a broad comprehensive education to meet the needs of its students.
Mission Statement To strive continuously to provide for the educational needs of all who wish to avail of the teaching, learning and training services provided by the school. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 98 Senior Cycle 29 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme(LCVP) 18 Total 145 Board of Management Cllr. Fidelis Doherty, Chairperson (ETB Member) Mr. Graham Clarke (Parent Representative) Cllr. Ger Frisby (ETB Member) Ms. Lucy Walsh (Parent Representative) Ms. Elaine Kearns (ETB Member) Mr. Martin Gordon (Staff Representative) Ms. Aisling Gannon (Staff Representative) Highlights Many events commemorating the Rising of Easter 1916 took place, the highlight held on March 15 2016 re-enacting the first reading of the Proclamation followed by the reading of a proclamation created by our students to meet the needs of a modern society whilst embracing the aspirations of 1916.
Our Open Night and Practical Day for prospective students proved to be very successful and helped inform people what Coláiste Cois Siúire offered students.
A 5Km run was undertaken by all students sponsored by Sky Sports Living for Sport, mentored by Irish Rugby player, Jenny Murphy. The “From couch to 5 km “event was for all second year students who started training for this in January. This year a fun run was organized in conjunction with this where over €3,500 was raised to renovate the shower rooms to augment the new gym.
This year Mr. Michael “Mouse” Morris, winning trainer to the Aintree Grand National winner 2016, presented the students with their awards at a ceremony to acknowledge students input into all aspects of school life. His address was well received by all the students where he stressed the need for dedication and hard work to succeed in life.
School Frontage: Road realignment through the village of Mooncoin resulted in a new safer parking set down for buses and cars. However, the front became unsightly and the community came together to provide funding to not only reinstate, but embellish the frontage with a new wall. True community spirit in action.
Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 12.54 Special Needs Assistants 0 Administrative Staff 0.857 Support Staff 1.26 Total 14.657 Principal: Mr. Paul Duggan Deputy Principal: Ms. Imelda Behan
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Coláiste Eoin Hacketstown, Co. Carlow T: 059 6471198 F: 059 6471263 E: [email protected] We aim to provide an education, which seeks to promote in each student An awareness of personal worth and dignity; A sense of truth, self-discipline and responsibility; An understanding of doing ones best; A desire to co-operate with others; A respect and tolerance of others, through academic, practical, personal, social, physical, moral and religious education. To achieve this we endeavour to work with and support each other as a team. This team is inclusive of school management, staff, students, parents, the local community and any organisation which may be of benefit. Mission Statement Coláiste Eoin endeavours to nurture each student academically, physically, morally, socially and emotionally and to acknowledge the commitment of students, staff and parents in their overall contribution to the school as a community School Enrolment Junior Cycle 120 Senior Cycle 31 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) 63 PLC 19 Total 233 Board of Management Cllr. Denis Foley (ETB Member) Mr. Barry Doogue (Staff Representative) Cllr. Jennifer Murnane (ETB Member) Mr. Jenny O’Regan Byrne(Parent Representative) Ms. Caitlín Mhic Cárthaigh (ETB Member) Ms. James Whelan (Parent Representative) Ms. Noelle King (Staff Representative) Community Representatives: Fr. McCormack, Ms. Sinead Doyle & Mr. Mícheál Walsh Highlights We are very proud of the success of our students who have excelled in their academic and sporting achievements. Jack Phelan won ETB student of the year. Edward Byrne won an Entrance Scholarship to University College Dublin. Nicola Murray (4thYr) won a trip to Strasburg as part of a CSPE competition, Eoin Fitzgerald a past pupil of Coláiste Eoin who was awarded the Gold Gaisce Award and Orla Byrne won a competition to design a crest/logo for Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society. Our annual TY Variety Show celebrated its’ twenty second year. This year’s production was a modern day adaption of a number of fairy tale stories, entitled “Big Bad”. This was an original screen play. The show ran on 4 & 5 February in our school hall. TY School Trip to New York took place 16-21 March. The group participated in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, ice-skating in Central Park and well as visiting the following: Rockefeller Centre, Radio City Music Hall, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, Madison Square Gardens, and the Empire State Building. We were very pleased with the outcome of a subject inspection in Irish which took place on 19/10/’15. To our delight, our U14 Girls Soccer team won the Leinster. Our senior Football team won the “Patrick Cunnane Cup. Padraig Byrne (6th Yr) was selected for the under 21 Wicklow County Panel. Bethany Sharpe (5th Yr) and Daisy Sharpe were selected for the Leinster Rugby Schools Team. A very successful anti- Bullying week ran from 09 –13 November. The theme was “Words can be weapons too”. Class teachers met their class and conducted a bullying survey. A general assembly was organised for all year groups to raise awareness of our school’s bullying policy. Our year English class produced a short video raising awareness of the theme, which was shown to the whole student body. 1916 Commemorations- Students were invited to write a new Proclamation, which reflects the values, ideals, and hopes of the generation of 2016. Leah Byrne, 2nd year student had the winning entry. A poster competition entitled “Ireland of Today and Yester-year” was also ran. 1st Place –Katie Phelan (2yr Yr.); 2nd Place- Kerry Timmins (2nd Yr.); Joint 3rd Place- Laura Jackson (2nd Yr) & Nicola Murray (5th Year). Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 17.44 Special Needs Assistants 0 Administrative Staff 1.00 Support Staff 1.73 Total 20.17 Principal: Dr. Pauline Egan Deputy Principal: Mr. James Burke
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Coláiste Mhuire Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny T: 056 8831135 F: 056 8838864 E: [email protected] Coláiste Mhuire was opened in 1996, replacing the old Johnstown Vocational School, which served the area since 1952. At present there are over 500 students from the areas of Johnstown, Urlingford, Freshford, Gathabawn, Lisdowney, Cullohill, Crosspatrick, Galmoy, Gortnahoe and Tullaroan. The school provides an excellent educational service to the students of North Kilkenny and South Tipperary.
Mission Statement Coláiste Mhuire Johnstown is a modern second level school whose central purpose is the moral, spiritual, intellectual, social and personal development of students in the context of delivering the curriculum in an atmosphere of care and concern. Pastoral Care is an integral part of the holistic education offered in the school and is catered for through a Home School Community Liaison Officer, the Chaplain, Guidance Counselling and Learning Support Education. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 227 Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) 27 Junior Certificate Schools Programme (JCSP) 53 Senior Cycle 67 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) 128 Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) 11 Total 513 Board of Management Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh (Chairperson – ETB Member) Mr. Eamon Doheny (Parent Representative) Cllr Maurice Shortall (ETB Member) Ms. Angela Campion (Parent Representative) Mr. Sean Warren (ETB Member) Mr. John Dunne (Staff Representative) Ms Gemma Dunphy (Staff Representative) Community Representatives: Jerry Fogarty, Breda Manton Highlight The school received the Cycle Against Suicide award for our work in relation to Mental Health The students raised money for a number of charities including: Childline, Concern and the Saint Vincent DePaul. One of our students performed well in the Soroptimists International public speaking competition. We commemorated the events of 1916 with recitation and song at our flag raising ceremony. We also took part in the celebration day organized by the ETD in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel Carlow. On the sporting front we excelled at Senior Hurling, Junior Camogie, Under 17 Soccer, Handball and First Year Basketball. TY students had a very busy year. They performed the musical Scrooge, visited Delphi and were involved in o host of other activities too numerous to mention. One of our Art students had a major success in winning the Texaco Art Award. Our planned extension to the school made some progress but is still at an early stage. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 39.62 Special Needs Assistants 5 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 2 Total 47.62 Principal: Mr. Michael Killeen Deputy Principal Ms. Angela Conroy
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Coláiste Pobail Osraí Br Urmhumhan, Cill Chainnigh T: 056 7764557 E: [email protected] Coláiste Pobail Osraí began in September 1991. It resulted from the hard work of a Parents’ Committee, the then C.E.O. Mr. Brendan Conway, members of County Kilkenny VEC and local politicians. Coláiste Pobail Osraí is situated on Ormonde Road, sharing a campus with Ormonde College.
Mission Statement Our aim is the provide a high standard of education through the medium of Irish for our students leading to their academic, moral, personal, social and physical development - all contributing to their development as good citizens. The school is co-educational and non-denominational and offers a balanced mix of academic, technical, artistic and creative subjects. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 125 Senior Cycle 84 Total 209 Board of Management Caitlín Mhic Charthaigh (Ionadaí BOO) [Cathaoirleach] Michelle Ní Bhuachalla (Ionadaí Tuismitheora) Cr. Maurice Shortall (Ionadaí BOO) Breandán Ó Laoghaire (Ionadaí Tuismitheora) Cr. Patrick McKee (Ionadaí BOO) Lughaidh Ó Néill (Ionadaí Foirne) Ms. Laura Ní Bheoláin (Ionadaí Foirne) Ionadaithe pobail: Seán ó hArgáin agus Fiona Uí Shuilleabháin Highlights Bhí cur chuige treas scoile againn le cur chun cinn na Gaeilge laistigh agus lasmuigh den scoil. Leis an scoile páirteach i Gaeil Chainnigh, Dúshlán 50, Gaelbhratach agus Gaeilge 24. Chuaigh daltaí chuig an Bhruiséil le féachaint ar oibríochtaí an EU chomh maith leis an Ghaeilge a labhairt sa Pharlaimint. 2015/16 was a very progressive year yet again for Coláiste Pobail Osraí with enrolment continuing to grow. We continue to focus on our teaching and learning methodologies in line with the developments for the new junior cycle as well as our use of iPads within the school. All students in the school use iPads as a learning tool. We are also participating in a EU pilot scheme ATS2020 and a Microsoft Surface pilot in conjunction with COGG. Great results once again with an increase in the points average and retention ratios. This a testament to the hard work of both the students and teachers in the school. Partnership with Statestreet under the Business in the community skills@work Programme Following on from being a pilot school of the Droichead programme and as part of the PDST Forbairt we rolled out a peer mentoring programme for teachers to enable teachers to share best practice and to support one another. We continue to participate in many competitions from the Young Scientist to mini-company, creative engagement to English and Irish Debating. From Choir competitions to Basketball, from hurling to football to soccer. Our student council, Dáil na scoile, continued to grow in influence and attended at the start of board of management meetings. We have progressed our music repertoire with the founding of a traditional banna ceoil to further enhance the embedding of the Irish culture into the school. We are hosting a national in-service week for teachers in Gaelcholáistí run by COGG during the summer holidays.
Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 16.24 Special Needs Assistants 1 Administrative Staff 0.65 Support Staff 1.60 Total 19.49 Principal: Mr. Cathnia Ó Muircheartaigh Deputy Principal: Ms. Madailin Mhic Lochlainn
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Duiske College Graignamanagh, Co. Kilkenny T: 059 9724177 F: 059 9724883 E: [email protected] Duiske College opened in September 1954 and is designed to meet the second level educational needs for Graignamanagh and its hinterland, including South Carlow. It is a non-selective, co-educational school, which aims to promote the total development of each individual student. Duiske College’s comprehensive programme of instruction in languages, sciences and the humanities equips our students to meet the challenges of the modern world.
Mission As a community of learning, Duiske College promotes respect, fairness and honesty in a safe, caring, inclusive environment which facilitates high quality teaching and learning. Thus in a Christian ethos the personal development and dignity of each person is fostered. Students are challenged to aspire to excellence and to reach their potential in everything they do. School Enrolment Junior Cycle (Including JCSP) 71 Senior Cycle 33 Leaving Cert Vocational Programme 28 Post Leaving Cert 34 Total 166 Board of Management Cllr Peter Cleere (Chairperson – ETB Board Member) Mr Joe Fox (Parent Representative) Ms. Eleanor Reddy (ETB Board Member) Ms Marie Hayles (Parent Representative) Mr. Michael Daly (ETB Board Member) Mr. Kevin Cheasty (Staff Representative) Ms Olivia Staunton (Community Representative) Ms. Teresa Doyle (Staff Representative) Highlights Student Sean Delaney came in first place in Ireland in the Hot Press “Write here, Write now” secondary school short story competition to win a two week internship at Hot Press and a substantial cash prize. Our School variety Show was staged in the Abbey hall on the 3rd and 4th of December. It included over 20 acts including: a parent’s act, a teacher’s act, and a half hour play on the 1916 rising. Students sang, danced and did comedy acts. It proved very entertaining with the community looking for extra performances. Our Choir Spent a day in Waterford as part of the Winterval Festival prior to Christmas. They had a great day and raised much needed funds for charity as well as contributing to the Christmas spirit. Transition year went on tour to Manchester. They did a tour of Old Trafford and attended a soccer match Chrystal Palace V Man Utd. They also visited the Beatles Museum in Liverpool and spent a day at a leisure complex in Blackpool. Our continued association with Business in the Community proved a great success as our students continue to benefit from our partnership with Glanbia. Students Stephen Cahill and Thomas Doherty and won first prize in the young enterprise awards Outdoor Sports and Recreation continues to flourish at Duiske College. Creative Media and Visual Arts are very popular and Business Level 5and 6 continue to train people for further education and employment. Progression Agreements between Duiske College and a number of Regional Colleges have proved to be invaluable to students wishing to progress to Third Level education. Many events took place to commemorate the events of 1916 including the following; A Gala Concert of music, dance and historical reflection held at Duiske Abbey, co-ordinated and organised by Ms Brenda Foskin and Ms Marie Hayles. A half hour play based on the events of 1916 written and directed by school Principal Mr Pat Murphy, performed by TY students and adorned with traditional ballads from our singing caretaker Mr Pat Kavanagh. A visit to Croke Park for National Flag Day and the reading of the Proclamation at Duiske College on Proclamation Day. Cross Curricular Projects on 1916 incorporating the English, Woodwork, History and Art Departments. The Senior Hurlers reached the South Leinster final losing out by one point to CBS New Ross. Ladies Football and Camogie continue to flourish at Duiske College. We entered a Ladies Soccer team for the first time and they took part in blitzes and school competitions. Duiske College entered a rowing team for the first time. Jack and Declan Moylan and Brian Bolger represented Duiske College at the Schools Competition in Cork Students from 3rd year at Duiske College attended the Maynooth Awards and were presented with achievement awards in Maths, Science, Irish, English and French. Ms Brigid Keoghan and Ms Tracey Reddy received Inspirational Teacher awards. Jade Fenlon and Jessica Brown, both in 6th year, received outstanding student awards. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 16.48 Special Needs Assistants 2 Administrative Staff 0.5 Support Staff 1.33 Total 22.31 Principal: Mr. Pat Murphy Deputy Principal: Ms. Caitriona Phelan
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Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach Easca, Ceatharlach T: 059 9132130 F: 059 9130317 E: [email protected] Is scoil mheascaithe, lán-Ghaelach í Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach a dhéanann freastal ar mhuintir an réigiúin. Bunaíodh an scoil i 1990.
Ráiteas Misín Tá sé mar aidhm ag an scoil oideachas a chur ar fáil mar chuid den phlean saoil iomlán, ionas go mbeadh ár ndaltaí in ann fás agus forbairt, a gcumas a shroichint leis an meon ceart maidir le foghlaim, obair, fírinne, áilleacht, oidhreacht, maitheas, dínit, daoine eile, iad féin agus an saol go ginearálta. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 204 Senior Cycle 143 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) 21 Total 368 Board of Management Áine Mhic Raghnaill Seán Mac Diarmada Ann Ahern Mark de Stafford Denis Foley Rachel Ní Fhearail Fergal Browne Highlights Bhí an-chuid imeachtaí breise agus clubanna ar siúl anseo – ina measc peil ghaelach, iománaíocht, sacar, rugbaí, cispheil, lúthchleasaíocht, scuais, galf, tráth na gceist comórtaisí ceannaireachta leis an gClub Rotary agus Club Leoin, comórtais aistí agus filíochta, díospóireachtaí, drámaíocht, amhránaíocht, rince agus ceol pop, rac agus traidisiúnta. Go minic eagraíodh imeachtaí dona daltaí go mbíonn léargas le fáil acu ar fhadhbanna sóisialta. Tógadh grúpaí agus cainteoirí isteach san scoil, go háirithe chun labhairt le scoláirí na 6ú Bliana maidir le gairmeacha beatha agus Coláistí 3ú leibhéal. I rith na bliana bhí deiseanna taistil ag gach grúpa san scoil agus eagraíodh turasanna in Éirinn agus thar lear. Thug daltaí na hIdirbhliana cuairt ar Italy. “Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine”
Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 23.75 Special Needs Assistants 1 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 1.64 Total 27.39 Principal: Ms. Gearóidín Ní Chonghaile Deputy Principal Mr. Padraig Ó’Ceallaigh
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Grennan College Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny T: 056 7724112 F: 056 7724091 E: [email protected] Grennan College was established as Thomastown Vocational School by Co. Kilkenny Vocational Education Committee in 1958. Today Grennan College is a progressive second level school which provides an excellent educational service to the students of Thomastown and its environs. We offer a comprehensive range of subjects all at Higher Level across a broad curriculum, thus catering for the full scope of student ability, academic, practical, creative and technical.
Mission Statement The school is a centre of learning catering for the educational needs of the community which focuses on a holistic approach to education in a caring atmosphere. This school promotes the educational and holistic development of the people of this community, helping them to achieve their full potential regardless of intellectual ability. We are a caring school with dedicated teachers providing a comprehensive range of subjects catering for the needs of its pupils. We welcome students of all abilities, denominations and nationalities and help them achieve their full potential in all areas by providing a caring and nurturing educational environment. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 192 Senior Cycle 61 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme(LCVP) 83 Post Leaving Certificate(PLC) 43 Total 379 Board of Management Mr. Derek Dooley (Chairperson – Staff Representative) Ms. Breda Gardner (Community Representative) Cllr. Peter Cleere (ETB Board Member) Mr. Ignatius McComb (Community Representative) Mr. Michael Daly (ETB Board Member) Ms. Eithna Coen (Community Representative) Ms. Eleanor Reddy (ETB Board Member) Ms. Nicola Murphy (Staff Representative) Ms. Bernie Wemyss (Parent Representative) Mr. Kevin Kelly (Parent Representative) Mr. Sean Óg O’ Sullivan (Secretary to the Board) Highlights The completion of the construction and commencement of use of the GC Leisure Sports Hall (a school/community partnership). Students sitting State Exams performed to a very high level and achieved very positive results. Special guest speaker at the annual Student Awards Night was Dr. Lawrence Stapleton Ph.D., MA, B.Sc. (Hons), CPIM. Following 5 years as a manager in a large multinational, Dr. Stapleton has lectured at Waterford Institute of Technology for over 20 years. During this time he has worked as an advisor to business development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and FAS. He has advised the European Commission and INTAS, and national governments both inside and outside the EU. He holds international academic positions, regularly speaking at international conferences overseas and has over seventy academic publications. Dr. Stapleton is a past student of Grennan College and spoke of leadership. Sporting highlights included: All Ireland success in Junior Handball as well as success in Leinster (boys & girls). An excellent year for basketball, spikeball, badminton & volleyball (reaching All-Ireland finals). Leinster Final agony for the Junior Camogie after an excellent year of progress and building. 1916 Commemorations: A series of projects, contributions and events throughout the year by a range of year groups and students culminated in a showcase exhibition in the Dolmen Hotel, Carlow with all other Kilkenny/Carlow ETB schools. Grennan’s Got Talent 2016 marked the return of the very popular talent showcase. Fantastic talent and music orchestrated by Ms. S. Fitzpatrick and Ms. Kett. A wonderfully moving 1916 enactment was played out by students featuring excerpts from the main Proclamation signatories and finishing off with a beautiful version of ‘Grace’. A first student music CD was created and consisted of music from students across the school. The CD went on sale following its official launch. Grennan Equestrian College The 2015/2016 year in Grennan Equestrian College was very successful. All the students achieved fantastic results in their exams after working hard all year. In addition to working towards the QQI and BHS exams we also hosted training days, went on educational trips and held our annual in-house competition. Kildalton Agricultural College The first training day we attended was held in Kildalton College on 2nd November 2015 where the students had the opportunity to learn about “sitting for success” most especially on how to improve rider’s position on the flat over fences and on the lunge . It was a really interesting day out with the students learning a lot. Grennan College Competition On the 21st April we held the Annual Grennan College Competition. This day was great fun as it was the culmination of a week of hard work by the students with their chosen horse. The combined training event involved the students performing a dressage test and then jumping a course of fences. It was a great way for the students to work to improve a horse over the course of a week. Troy town Equine Hospital the Curragh Kildare On the 11th of May we visited Troy town Equine Hospital The Curragh Kildare. This day was organised with the help of Sarah O’ Dwyer
Page 26 Annual Report 2015 who is one of the Vets in the hospital . With Sarah’s help we were allowed an insight into how mares are cared for during the breeding programme and were also given an insight of the specialist care required by sick mare and foals to include their neonatal unit , bone scanning and MRI units . We also got the opportunity to hear from Sarah how they look after the horses on a day-to-day basis. This proved to be a valuable lesson to the students. Training Day for Area 4 Pony Club Hosted by Grennan College Equestrian Centre Grennan College Equestrian Centre hosted a training evening for Irish Pony Club with Paddy O’ Donnell international show jumper. The theme was improving gymnastic training for horse and rider. The students were involved in setting up all the exercises which gave them great experience for their coaching exam, and were present for the evening Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 28.44 Special Needs Assistants 2.50 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 1.88 Total 33.82 Principal: Mr. Sean Óg O Sullivan Deputy Principal: Ms. Miriam O’Donnell
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Kilkenny City Vocational School New Street, Kilkenny City T: 056 7722108 F: 056 7722608 E: [email protected] Kilkenny City Vocational School provides a fully comprehensive curriculum in a learning environment that responds to the needs of each individual student regardless of ability level and aspires to an education that will prepare all students academically, vocationally, spiritually, physically and morally for the work/life ahead of them after school.
Mission Statement We aim to provide our students with the best possible education in a caring, disciplined and affirming environment. To foster a sense of self-esteem, honesty and respect among all members of the school community. To develop the personal, academic and spiritual potential of each student. To provide a welcoming environment for parents as partners in the education of their children. To create on- going opportunity for staff and parents which will enable them to understand their role as educators. Second Level - School Enrolment Junior Certificate Schools Programme(JCSP) 70 Leaving Certificate Applied 31 Senior Cycle 45 Total 146 Board of Management Ms. Elizabeth Thornton (Chairperson- Staff Representative) Mr. Vincent Long (Parent Representative) Cllr. Patrick McGee Ms. Joan Cantwell(Parent Representative) Cllr. Matt Doran Mr. John Collins (Staff Representative) Mr. Sean Warren (ETB Member) Mr. John Kavanagh (Deputy Principal) Highlights The Academic Year 2015/16 will be remembered in KCVS for the announcement a new greenfield site has been secured and the DES have announced that the staff and students of KCVS will be moving to a new greenfield site in the coming years. 2015/16 also saw KCVS host the 1916 Quiz for 1st and 2nd Year students from all schools in KCETB as part of the 1916 KCETB celebrations. The school also played a significant role in organising the 1916 KCETB event that was held in the Dolmen Hotel in Carlow. KCVS staff and students played a central role in organising this event for all schools in KCETB. SUAS – our ASD Unit continues to thrive. Our 5th year students won an award for Teamwork at the Student Enterprise Awards in March 2016 KCVS became the first school in Ireland or the UK to plan and implement a No Pen Day where students or teachers were not allowed to use pens, pencils or markers during their classes. The day, which was planned in collaboration with the NBSS, was recorded with the intention of expanding the programme to other schools. KCVS had a very successful Business Studies subject inspection during the year. The inspectorate highlighted: o The excellent teaching and learning that took place in the Business classrooms o The high level of student engagement and uptake in the subject o The professionalism of the Business teachers in all aspects of delivering the Business curriculum o The high level of effective and innovative planning that takes place in the Business Department o The students participation in co-curricular activities such as the Student Enterprise Awards While we had many trips, outings for our Students this year, one special trip to be remembered was our trip to the Aviva Stadium during the Easter Holidays to watch Ireland vs. Slovakia in an international soccer friendly. This saw teachers give up their free time, during the Easter Holidays, to accompany the students to the match. Other trips included a CSPE trip to the Dáil in December 2015, and the Science Ecology trip to Castlecomer Discovery Park. Our Science students also enjoyed an excellent trip to Maynooth to participate in Chemistry and Biology workshops during the year. KCVS also was awarded the Amber Flag for promoting Positive Mental Health. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 20.29 Special Needs Assistants 4 Administrative Staff 1.0 Support Staff 1.58 Total 26.87 Principal: Ms. Cathy McSorley Deputy Principal: Mr. John Kavanagh
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Ormonde College of Further Education Ormonde Road, Kilkenny City T: 056 7763321 F: 056 7720246 E: [email protected]
Ormonde College of Further Education has developed out of the need to address the further education requirements of Kilkenny city and environs in a climate that reflects its distinction from second level provision. With the completion of the new City Vocational School on New Street in 1979, the bulk of the second level provision moved to the new premises, leaving the building on Ormonde Road as the home of a growing College of Further Education providing courses to Post Leaving Certificate students and mature learners wishing to return to education. Today, Ormonde College is the largest provider of Post-Leaving Certificate courses in County Kilkenny.
Post Leaving Certificate Enrolment 264 Board of Management Cllr. Matt Doran (ETB Member) Mr. Vincent Andrews (Staff Representative) Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh (ETB Member) Ms. Roisin Johnson (Student Representative) Mr. Christopher Pim (Industry Representative) Mr. Jamie Walsh (Student Representative) Ms. Deirdre Dowling (Staff Representative) Highlights The college offers learners the opportunity to study for qualifications at Levels 5 and 6 on the NFQ with QQI, CIBTAC, ITEC, CIDESCO and the NCEF/University of Limerick. Many learners have progressed to take up places at third level in the Institutes of Technology at Waterford, Carlow, Athlone and Tralee. A number of students have progressed to degree programmes in Nursing and the Social Sciences and secured positions in the fields of healthcare, hotel and catering, childcare, animal care and the leisure industry. The facilities operated by the college include a gymnasium, two fully equipped beauty therapy salons and a dog grooming facility. On 12th May 2016, students pursuing the Level 5 and 6 Certificates in Art and the Level 5 Certificate in Animation, held an end of year exhibition showcasing their work over the academic year. The exhibition was an enormous success in terms of attendance and interest, a fitting acknowledgement of the quality of the work produced. The college enjoyed a particularly ‘active’ year in 2016 with students engaged in educational excursions to RTÉ, The Garda Training College in Templemore, whale watching and bird of prey observations, dog training and canine first responder workshops, puppetry and various beauty specialist workshops among the highlights of a tremendously rich year. The students of the Media Studies programme organized a highly successful fund raising ‘Charity Music Session’ to raise funds for local charities as part of their Event Production module. For the second year in succession the college enjoyed success at the National Careers Skills Competition, with Nursing Studies student Helen Achan capturing the third place prize. The college is enormously proud of Helen and Guidance Counsellor Margie Wall on this achievement. On March 16th this year the college hosted a 1916 Centenary Commemoration that included poetry recital, music and song, a performance by the Shorecrest Marching Band from Washington State, USA and a ceremonial flag raising facilitated by a colour party from James Stephen's Military Barracks. Special guest and keynote speaker on the day was Cathal Brugha McSweeney, grandson of the original revoluntionary leader.
Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 13.88 Special Needs Assistants 0 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 0.71 Total 15.59 Deputy Principal: Mr. John Kavanagh
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Muine Bheag Vocational School Kilcarrig Street, Muine Bheag, Co. Carlow T: 059 9721335, Fax: 059 9721299 E: [email protected] Muine Bheag Vocational School has been serving the community of Bagenalstown and surrounding areas since 1963. At present there are 216 students attending the school from Muine Bheag, Fenagh, Myshall, Newtown, Paulstown, Leighlinbridge and Old Leighlin. Our School has a reputation and tradition of having a caring and supportive learning environment in which students have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects at all levels. Many of our students have moved on to third level education while others have developed their entrepreneurial abilities and are now employers in the region. The teaching and learning environment has been developed and expanded over the past number of years and we can now offer an education to Students in an excellent facility with a highly trained and motivated teaching staff. Mission Statement Muine Bheag Vocational School endeavours to cater for the educational, social and personal developments of the students. Thus we seek: To develop the educational potential of each student. To nurture respect for themselves, their peers and the community. To encourage self-reliance, initiative and individuality. To equip students with the learning skills they require in their engagement with lifelong learning. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 12 Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) 17 Junior Certificate Schools Programme (JCSP) 35 Senior Cycle 56 Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) 97 Total 217 Board of Management Cllr. Denis Foley Chairperson (ETB Member) Ms Michelle Kirby (Parents Representation) Ms Jennifer Murnane-O’Connor (ETB Member) Mr Joe O Brien (Parents Representation) Mr. J Dermody (Staff Representative) Fr. D. Foley (Community Representation) Ms Marie Lee (Staff Representative)
Highlights Awards for best Junior Certificate projects in Woodwork. The success of our 6th year students in the Leaving Certificate 2015. Four Students represented the School and the KCETB at the National Formula 1 Finals Engineering Competition. Participation in the SKY Sports Active Schools Project with Daran O’Neill, the Irish international boxer Basketball success in the league and cup. Involvement in the National Commemorations for the 1916 rising Participation in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. The development of new initiatives as part of the H.S.C.L. and S.C. programmes The number of PLC students who gained employment on completion of courses in M.V.S. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 17.79 Special Needs Assistants 4 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 1.5 Total 24.29 Principal: Mr. David O’Flaherty Deputy Principal Mr. James Dermody
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Scoil Aireagail Ballyhale, Co. Kilkenny T: 056 7768632 F: 056 7768032 E: [email protected] Scoil Aireagail was officially opened by Mr. Michael Martin, TD and Minister for Education in October, 1999. Formerly the school had been known as Ballyhale Vocational School, which had been opened as an education centre in 1959.
Mission Statement Scoil Aireagail is committed to the educational welfare of its entire community. This includes staff, students, parents and the wider population we serve. We will respect and support the needs of staff and so enable them to carry out their duties efficiently and effectively. We will provide a holistic education in which each student is valued and their individual needs are recognised and catered for. We will provide a structured, caring environment enabling each student to reach their full potential and enter society as a responsible adult. School Enrolment Junior Cycle 99 Senior Cycle 79 PLC 12 Total 190 Board of Management Cllr. Matt Doran (Chairperson-ETB Member) Mr. Eamon Aylward (Parent Representative) Cllr. Fidelis Doherty (ETB Member) Ms. Patricia Dennehy (Staff Representative) Ms. Ann Kennedy (Parent Representative) Mr. Shane Fallon (Staff Representative) Highlights All Ireland Senior Hurling Champions, Kilkenny, visited the school in November to the tumultuous appreciation of students and staff. It was a wonderfully uplifting experience and bore testament to the school’s rich hurling and camogie heritage. Former students, Fennelly brothers and team captain Joey Holden were present on the day. Foroige mentoring programme established. ‘Big Brother/Sister’ system simultaneously promotes student leadership and pastoral care. Winter concert held in Carmelite Hall in December. Vast array of student musical and dance talent on display to school community. Schools hurling and camogie teams performed well in their respective campaigns winning league sections. Juvenile Gaelic football team won their regional section competition. ‘Cycle to Syria’ fundraising effort a huge success. Whole school community mobilised in raising funds and awareness in relation to refugee crisis in Syria, over €8,000 raised. First major success in Junk Couture competition with school entry winning regional section and going on to national finals. School Improvement Plan for Assessment Practices in first year of implementation, aimed at improving quality of teaching and learning with enhanced learning and performance outcomes for students. The Parents’ Association were extremely active in 2016 and were instrumental in a number of very successful fund raising events aimed at building a fund for infrastructural improvement. The events included an American Tea Party. Tractor Run and Clothes Collection. The annual 1st Year Display of Work took place in April. Project work of 1st Year students displayed to parents and members of the school community, a very affirming experience for the students. The Transition Year Graduation and Student Award ceremonies took place in May, recognising the academic and extra-curricular achievements of the students. The students were very impressive in their presentation of their year’s activities and achievements. Enrolment of first years for the 2016/17 anticipated to show a significant increase on recent years, a vindication from the community of the quality of education being provided for the students. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 19.78 Special Needs Assistants 3.5 Administrative Staff 1 Support Staff 2.79 Total 27.07 Principal: Mr. Liam O’ Brien Deputy Principal: Mr. Shane Fallon
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Adult Literacy Service Upper Patrick Street, Kilkenny City T: 056 7763149 F: 056 7751094 E: [email protected] Word Aid Adult Literacy Service believes that the right to read and write is a basic human right. It sees learning as a lifelong process and education as a means by which people can begin to take greater control over their lives and participate more fully in their communities. Word Aid believes that a basic education service should be based on this principle and endeavours to support adults with reading, writing and numeracy difficulties in Co. Kilkenny, by providing a holistic learner-centred service based on an ethos of quality in a secure, friendly and comfortable environment.
Mission Statement Word Aid, Co. Kilkenny Adult Learning Scheme strives to ensure that adults with reading, writing and numeracy difficulties have access to quality, equitable, confidential and free learning opportunities with options for progression. Number of Learners 815
Highlights AONTAS AWARD: The Family Learning Project in Ferrybank was again shortlisted for the Aontas Awards in February 2016. The project that was shortlisted for the award was a ‘Story Sack Project’. An interview was held in Dublin with tutors, students and the manager of the Ferrybank Library and it was followed by the Awards Day in Dublin later in February 2016. Tutor Training: This year it was decided to update our tutor training programme by designing a website through ‘Weebly’ where the new volunteer tutors could access the necessary material/handouts as needed. 19 new volunteer tutors completed the tutor training in April and more than half have commenced working with new learners. Continuous Professional Development: Training in the following WIT modules have been undertaken by some staff – Adult Numeracy, Micro Teaching and Methodologies 1 NALA Student Day in Kilkenny: This was the first time for this event to take place outside of Dublin. The largest number of learners was recorded, 125 adult learners from around the country attended on the day. The credit goes to 2 of Word Aid learners Noel Phelan and Billy Molloy. Both are members of NALA’s student committee and Billy is also on the NALA’s executive committee. This event was held at Kilkenny College on Saturday 14th May with Brian Cody as the guest speaker. He spoke with great praise for the spirit and enthusiasm that he had experienced in Word Aid when he came to visit some of the groups in the centre the previous week. Great praise must also go to 3 Kilkenny learners who spoke about their own experiences in Word Aid and how it has been a life changing experience not just for them but their family also. 2 Word Aid Resource Workers facilitated one of the workshops on the day. This workshop was ‘Fun Workshop for parents, aunties, uncles and grandparents’. Practical examples of Family Learning Projects were on display and an introduction to the ‘Help my kid learn website’. This workshop was a great success and NALA are looking for it to be rolled out in other areas of the country. Irish TV: Following on from the NALA Student Day Siobhan O’ Donoghue from Irish TV visited the Word Aid centre the next day to interview both Noel and Billy for her programme on 27th May. She also filmed some learners with their tutor/s who were working on a 1916 project. Projects within St. John’s Primary School: Project 1 – Creating a Storysack for the book ‘Kiss Good Sam’ with a particular focus on creating a bed time routine and encouraging improved personal hygiene. This has been a great success so following from that the school approached Word Aid to do another project to incorporate all the different nationalities within the school. Project 2 will result in a wall hanging of approx. 6’x6’ and a children’s storybook to compliment the wall hanging. Literacy is incorporated within both projects. One Book One Community: The groups involved in this project are St. John’s Senior School, Stonehouse Books, KK City Library and the Word Aid Interagency. They are all reading the book ‘Grandpa’s Great Escape’ by David Walliams. The Interagency group are making card games for the children in the school to have as a revision tool/s and to encourage conversation and communication. The school will host a ‘Grandpa’s Great Escape Day in June for the community. Book Club: This was set up for learners who requested an interest in reading a book. This was run in conjunction with the communication module. Educational Outings: Woodstock House & Gardens Guided Tour, The Smithwick’s Experience. These were guided tour explaining the history, landscaping and economics of the area. The information was incorporated within various QQI modules. Other tours organised for June 2016 are The Curragh Camp Museum, Japanese Gardens and the National Stud. NALA Family Learning Conference: Learners from Word Aid Interagency group presented a workshop showcasing their Storysack ‘Going on a Bear Hunt’ in Dublin and the ETBI magazine featured a report on the project in their spring addition. QQI Awards: Approximately 300 portfolios are being presented for the May 2016 assessment. These include a variety of modules from I.T , Communications, Maths, Personal Effectiveness and Cultural modules. Student Committee: A new student committed is in the process of being setup. This is to encourage new and old learners to participate fully within the Adult Literacy Scheme and also encourage such events as the Library night, student talks etc. Blended Learning: This is an innovative interactive programme that helps learners to improve literacy/numeracy and gives them the opportunity to apply for a QQI award outside of their organised tuition time/s. Keynote Speakers: A variety of speakers delivered classes on relaxation, nutrition and healthy lifestyles. The information was incorporated into their QQI Portfolios as well as supporting their everyday lives. Awards Days: 2 Award Days are taking place in June to congratulate learners on receiving their QQI Certificates. This event
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takes place every year and the learners take great pride in their achievement. Some of the learners will speak about their own experience in returning to education and how much their confidence has grown and friendships that have been formed within their group/s. Staffing Profile Resource Workers 4 Adult Literacy Tutors 46 Administrative Staff 2 (Volunteer Tutors 23) Total 52 Adult Literacy Resource Worker: Ms. Carmel Bryan
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Adult Learning Centre Tullow Road, Carlow T: 059 9135544 E: [email protected]
Mission Statement Carlow Adult Learning Scheme provides help and support to adults in Carlow town and county, to develop and improve their reading, writing, spelling, numeracy and interpersonal skills. Our aim is to provide this in a safe, confidential and friendly way that puts student needs and development at the centre of our work Number of Learners 500
Highlights Staff did a meet and greet in local supermarkets throughout National Adult Literacy Week 2015 and learner achievement was celebrated with a ‘Presentation of Certificates’ event. Staff undertook training in Freedom of Information, QQI, Pedagogy, Curriculum Development, Psychology and Policy. Training provided for Volunteer Literacy Tutors. Participated in the Department of Social Protection Jobs Fair. Held annual volunteer tutor ‘Thank you’ event Learners attended the Watergate Theatre to see The Elephant Man. Inducted three new staff. Facilitated and supervised two work experience placements. Ran successful ‘Books for Babies’ family learning project in co-operation with HSE Public Health Nursing Service. ALO chairs the Traveller Interagency Education, Community Development and Arts sub-group and has overseen the development of the Education, Community Development and Arts portion of the Strategy for Carlow, which has been adopted under the LESC. ALO is a member of the Steering Group for the Carlow Traveller Research Project. ALO met with Occupational Therapist for Mental Health Services and Mental Health Nurse for Travellers and briefed on role of ALS. ALO delivered session on Adult Literacy to Masters students in Carlow IT. ALO represented Adult Education Service at Tullow Show. Staff commenced usage of PLSS and KEATS. ALO participated in the ETBI Wider Benefits of Learning Consultative Forum. Conducted Voter Education training and Census Training for all students of the ALS. Held event for Proclamation Day including reading of the Proclamation and distribution of 1916 learner packs. Participated in AONTAS Adult Learners festival including a drop in morning in the ALS for the public, a tour of Carlow County Museum to mark Green Learning Day and the completion of ‘The Learning Tree’ site specific art installation with learners in the ALS. Staffing Profile Resource Workers 0.5 Adult Literacy Tutors 15 Administrative Staff 0.5 (Volunteer Tutors) 15 Total30 Adult Literacy Organiser: Ms. Tara Kelly Adult Literacy Resource Worker: Ms. Deirdre Geoghegan
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Adult Educational Guidance Service Lower New Street, Kilkenny City T: 056 7764448 F: 056 7764487 E: [email protected] An educational guidance service offered to adults which includes impartial adult education information, one-to-one guidance and group guidance, which will enable people to make informed educational, career and life choices. The Adult Guidance Service provides individuals and groups with an opportunity to identify, explore and review educational and career options in a supportive, impartial and person centred environment. It is a free and confidential service for adult learners throughout county Kilkenny.
Mission Statement Co. Kilkenny Adult Educational Guidance Service strives to meet the information and guidance needs of adults in order to enable them to make informed decisions for future learning, education and/or career progression. The Co. Kilkenny Adult Educational Guidance Service believes that it is important to develop a relationship which supports adults in making meaningful choices to ensure their personal and professional growth and development. Number of Clients 1,738 One-to-One Guidance 857 Group Guidance Groups 47 General Public (information only queries) Appointments Total - 670 Total – 211 Highlights The following represent some of the highlights for Co. Kilkenny Adult Educational Guidance Service for 2015/2016. 2015 HSE Disability Information Evening, Kilkenny – In October 2015 the Adult Educational Guidance Service delivered a presentation regarding ETB Adult and Further Education learning opportunities in Kilkenny. This presentation formed part of an information evening organised by the HSE Occupational Guidance Service for adults with disabilities. The event aimed to provide young adults with information and advice on the range of educational options available in Kilkenny and Carlow and included presentations from a range of services and organisations. 2016 NALA Student Day, Kilkenny – In May 2016 the Adult Educational Guidance Service facilitated a workshop as part of a one day event organised by NALA (National Adult Literacy Agency) for adult learners living in Kilkenny and Carlow. The event aimed to raise awareness of adult literacy issues and to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about literacy services and supports available in their local area. Co. Kilkenny DSP and Kilkenny and Carlow ETB (Kilkenny service) Interagency Protocol – Staff of the local INTREO office and staff of Co. Kilkenny Adult Educational Guidance Service continued to operate the agreed interagency protocol. Adults working with Case Officers in the local INTREO office were referred to Co. Kilkenny Adult Guidance Service for one to one educational guidance counselling appointments with a Guidance Counsellor. This protocol is an excellent example of interagency collaboration. It has allowed for a high level of effective co-operation between agencies, with the aim of supporting adults who experience unemployment to explore, identify, access and progress onto education and/or career opportunities. Publications – The service produced a number of information and guidance resources which have proven to be extremely beneficial for adult learners including the “Courses in Kilkenny 2015/2016 booklet, Adult Learner Handbook and Diary and Autumn and Spring Newsletters Staffing Profile Guidance Co-ordinator/Counsellor 1 Information Officer 1 Guidance Counsellors 3 Total 5 Adult Guidance Co-ordinator/Counsellor: Ms. Bernadette O’Rourke
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Adult Guidance Service 1a Meadow Court, Burrin St., Carlow T: 059 9133123 E: [email protected]
We offer a free and confidential guidance service to adults which including impartial adult education information, one-to-one guidance and group guidance, which will help people to make informed educational, career and life choices.
Mission Statement To facilitate learners’ achievement of their potential by providing guidance and information on the full range of their lifelong learning opportunities. To facilitate the clients’ access to lifelong learning opportunities, Carlow AEGIS works in partnership at local and regional levels with various statutory, community and voluntary agencies. Maximise awareness of the service and opportunities for self-directed guidance among current and potential adult learners. Number of Clients One-to-One Guidance Group Guidance General Public Totals Appointments (information only queries) 01/09/2015 – 20/05/2016 No. of Groups: 47 386 1304 631 No. of Learners: 287 Highlights Partnership Activities The AEGIS provided information stands at the Volunteer Fair and the Intreo Jobs and Advice Fair. AEGIS continues to provide group guidance and follow up 1:1 appointments to each Carlow Job Club programme. We continue to work closely with the DSP Intreo service in Co. Carlow. AEGIS staff member represents KCETB on the CCDP Board of Management. ETB staff member gave presentation on ETB services at HSE event. AEGIS staff met with Carlow College admissions and mature student staff. Tullow Outreach AEGIS staff held a meeting with local stakeholders and set up an outreach service in Forward Steps. 3 group workshops were organised. The follow –on outreach 1:1 guidance service has been oversubscribed and information provision is building a presence. Outreach activities both guidance and information occur on a monthly basis. Youthreach AEGIS for the first time expanded their provision to provide guidance to all Youthreach students and 1:1 confidential appointments Interview Preparation and Skills Guidance Workshop for Leaving Certificate students BTEI AEGIS further expanded their provision to BTEI by organising speaker events, including expert speakers on interviews and CVs, a Care Agency employer, a Disability Centre manager, former BTEI students who are studying at third level and Social Care graduates working in the community. Regular email updates of upcoming events, course and job opportunities, application deadlines, financial supports, local initiatives and useful websites continue to be made available to staff and learners. AEGIS staff liaises with staff and tutors to provide guidance input to all learner groups as well as additional inputs on guidance related topics, as part of QQI components. Website To encourage self-directed guidance, the AEGIS continues to produce an upcoming courses list providing information on the range of courses currently available in the main towns in the County. This resource has proven to be very beneficial to service users, staff and external agencies. Service Evaluation In January 2016, the AEGIS carried out feedback of 20% of clients that accessed the AEGIS for one-to-one appointments during the period 1st June – 31st December 2015. There was a return rate of 28% with a 100% satisfaction rate noted by respondents Staffing Profile Guidance Co-ordinator/Counsellor 1 Information Officer 1 Guidance Counsellors 1.75 Total 3.75 Adult Guidance Co-ordinator/Counsellor: Mr. Shane Rooney
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Back to Education Initiative 7 Danville Business Park, Ring Rd., Kilkenny T: 056 7701020 E: [email protected] www.bteikilkenny.com This initiative provides part-time learning opportunities for young people and adults giving them a chance to combine a return to learning with family, work and other responsibilities. Programmes are offered on a flexible part-time basis throughout Kilkenny City and County, and offer certification at QQI Levels 3-6. Courses currently on offer include: Childcare, Culinary Skills, Office Skills, Healthcare, Horticulture, Professional Cookery and Return to Learning.
Mission Statement All work undertaken through our service offers a continued commitment to provision that is true to the Guiding Principles that underpin the work of the BTEI – Learner Centeredness, Equality, Accessibility and Inclusiveness, Recognising and Accommodating Diversity, Quality Assurance, Local Consultation, Innovation and an Area-based Approach. Number of Learners 535 2015 : 535 (251 in receipt of JSA/JSB) Highlights During the course of 2015-2016 the BTEI rolled out a new course in Professional Cookery (5M2088) in partnership with the School of Food, Thomastown. The group consists of 6 learners who graduated from Culinary Skills at Level 4 (offered through the BTEI for the first time during 2014-15) and a further 10 who commenced at Level 5. The BTEI also marked the very significant increase in the number of learners achieving Major Awards at Levels 5 and 6 by hosting a Major Award Ceremony in The Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on 3rd March 2016. Provision was offered as follows: General Education Callan; Castlecomer; Ferrybank; Urlingford; Kilkenny City ICT/Office Skills/Business Studies Kilkenny City; Callan Culinary Skills/Professional Cookery School of Food, Thomastown Horticulture Kilkenny City; Piltown Healthcare Callan; Castlecomer; Kilkenny City; Piltown; Urlingford QQI Awards Achieved Minor Awards Major Awards Major Awards Major Awards Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6 Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 2015 1,228 9 93 15 % increase on 2014 +17% -46% +140% +25% The BTEI continued during 2015-2016 to prioritise the development of key competencies in Communications, Interpersonal Skills, Technology and Problem Solving. With this in mind all BTEI programmes were offered in order to facilitate learners participating in programmes that offer access to Communications; Interpersonal Skills; Team working and Math’s and/or ICT. Staffing Profile BTEI Co-ordinator 1 BTEI Tutors (part-time) 20 Administrative Staff 0.5 BTEI Resource Worker 1 Total 21.5 BTEI Co-ordinator Ms. Mary Butler .
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Back to Education Initiative 1B Meadow Court, Burrin St, Carlow T: 059 9139532 E: [email protected] www.carlowbtei.com This initiative provides part-time learning opportunities for young people and adults giving them a chance to combine a return to learning with family, work and other responsibilities. Course options offer certification to those who would like to build up their qualifications in preparation for a return to work. The courses offer steps of personal development that are flexible and at the learner’s own pace. Programmes are offered on a flexible part-time basis throughout Carlow Town and County, and offer certification at QQI Levels 3-5. Courses currently available include: Computers, Office Skills, Healthcare, Horticulture, Retail, Childcare, Sport & Recreation and Employability Skills.
Mission Statement All work undertaken through our service offers a continued commitment to provision that is true to the Guiding Principles that underpin the work of the BTEI – Learner Centeredness, Equality, Accessibility and Inclusiveness, Recognising and Accommodating Diversity, Quality Assurance, Local Consultation, Innovation and an Area-based Approach. Number of Learners 2015: 493 Learners (185 in receipt of JSA/JSB) Highlights During the course of 2015-2016 the BTEI identified a need for Childcare, Retails Skills and Sport & Recreation in the Carlow town region. We have started courses in these areas at Levels 4 and 5. We are working in collaboration with Carlow Sports Partnership, Regional Drugs Task Force and Co. Carlow CE Supervisors. Carlow BTEI continues to work with St Catherine’s in the delivery of Level 3 Community Strand programme. Provision was offered as follows: BTEI Community Strand: St Catherine’s Community Centre Employability Skills: Bagenalstown, Carlow ICT/Office Skills: Bagenalstown, Supported Training Services and Carlow Tullow, Horticulture: Ballon Office Administration: Carlow Community Development: Carlow Healthcare, Childcare: Tullow, Carlow QQI Awards Minor Awards Major Awards Major Awards Major Awards Major Awards Achieved Level 3 Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 2013/2014 659 6 0 25 11 2014/2015 753 2 1 29 22 *2015/2016 597 5 14 24 0 *QQI assessments are still continuing and further figures have to be added for the remainder of this year The 2016 Carlow BTEI programme focused strongly on the integration of core competencies with a view to increasing employability opportunities for its learners while developing and complementing the relevant skills and qualifications for further education and/or employment. Staffing Profile BTEI Resource Worker 1 BTEI Tutors (part-time) 26 Administrative Staff 0.5 Total 27.5 BTEI Resource Worker: Pat Galvin
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Community Education Lower New Street, Kilkenny City T: 056 7786896 F: 056 7756483 E: [email protected] This service facilitates and supports community based learning in locations throughout the city and county. Its aim is to encourage adults to return to and participate in learning in their own local communities. Subjects include personal development, community arts, crafts, computer skills, parenting as well as health and fitness and vocational topics and are organised in association with voluntary and community groups representative of local community areas.
Mission Statement The Department of Education and Skills funds community education that is outside the formal education sector, with the aims of enhancing learning, empowerment and contributing to civic society. This provision is community based with local groups taking responsibility for and playing a key role in, organising courses and deciding on programme content.
Number of Learners 1,537 For the 2015 / 2016 academic year approximately 1200 learners participated in classes, 275 males. Classes were held at numerous venues throughout the city and county, and this year saw an increase in partnership activities focussing on the long term unemployed with a multi-agency approach. Highlights Diageo Learning for Life Programme is a partnership between KCETB, Diageo, Dept. Social Protection and Kilkenny Leader Partnership. 20 learners participated in this programme, with specific hospitality skills training, QQI components (funded through Community Education) and 4 weeks work placement. By May 2016 a number of learners had been offered full time positions at hotels in Kilkenny. Community Coaching is a partnership between KCETB, Kilkenny Recreation & Sports Partnership and Kilkenny Leader Partnership. 8 learners completed Level 4 QQI Component accreditation. This was offered to the 18 – 25 age group only as a taster in Sports and Recreation. Staffing Profile Community Education Facilitator 0 Community Education Tutors(Part-Time) 30 Administrative Staff 0.5 Total 30.5 AEO Acting with responsibility for Community Education Ms. Martha Bolger
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Community Education Service 1a Meadow Court, Burrin Street, Carlow T: 059 9179376 E: [email protected] Community education facilitates and supports community based education courses throughout Carlow Town and County. A huge variety of courses were delivered e.g. personal development, crafts, IT, Fitness etc. The Community Education Facilitator also represents KCETB on a number of boards and interagency committees. I also had responsibility for the outreach BTEI Programme. The following programmes took place throughout the County:
Horticulture Level 4 – Tullow, Health Care Support Level 5 – Tullow, ICT Level 4 – Supported Training Services, Office Skills Level 4 – Bagenalstown, Horticulture Level 4 – Ballon, Employability Skills Level 3 – Bagenalstown.
Mission Statement The Community Education Service pledges itself to the provision of self-directed, learner centred education in the community, for the community, by the community thus enhancing and empowering the Community towards a process of self-development, where learners may understand, shape and cope with their complex and changing world. Number of Learners In 2015 there were 2027 learners, 1450 women and 577 men. In total 190 courses took place. Highlights The Learning Works course continued to be very popular and a large number of the participants continued on to do accredited courses. We also ran the First Steps Programme with the DSP. This was an intensive short course targeting young people who are unemployed Staffing Profile Community Education Facilitator 1 Community Education Tutors(Part-Time) 84 Administrative Staff 0.5 Total 85.5 Community Education Facilitator: Ms. Fiona Dunne
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Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) Kilkenny City T: 056 7764719 F: 056 7751986 E: [email protected] The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) is a second chance education and training programme for adults who are long term unemployed and who wish to return to education. They can gain a qualification and develop their skills in a friendly, supportive learning environment. Participants in County Kilkenny can select from a range of six programmes which offer practical, academic and creative subjects to suit all needs. Six programmes are on offer at VTOS Kilkenny: Leaving Certificate (One year), QQI Level 5 Certificate in eBusiness (One year), QQI Level 5 Certificate in Information Processing (One year), QQI Level 3 Certificate in General Learning, City & Guilds Level 1 Award/Certificate/Diploma for IT Users, and Art, Craft & Design (QQI Level 3, 4, & 5). Mission Statement VTOS Ethos - By the end of these courses we as tutors aim to have given our participants the knowledge, skills and qualifications to enable them to contribute beneficially to the community they live in. Number of Learners 2015 to 2016 = 120 Highlights Seminars & Workshops Mock Interviews These took place in March / April 2015. The participants were interviewed and given feedback on their performance. While the experience may have proved daunting for some, overall they found it very helpful.
Digital Marketing Workshops - with Aisling Hurley – February & March 2016 Trips: Options 1 & 2 Trips Sept - "Sculpture in Context", Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin Sept - "Song of the Sea" Film & Exhibitions, Butler Gallery Oct - Irish Museum of Modern Art & Kilkenny Gaol Dec - National Gallery, Dail Eireann & National Museum of Ireland April - "Proclaiming a Republic" Collins Barracks, 1916 Dublin Walking Tour, "Plough & the Stars" & Backstage tour of the Abbey Theatre May - National Gallery Leonardo Di Vinci – GPO Exhibitions of Participants Work Woodcarving Exhibition | “Quality has no fear of time” - Thur 12th May – MacDonagh Junction Art & Ceramics Exhibitions | 17th June – MacDonagh Junction Photography Exhibition | “Moments Captured” – 3rd June – MacDonagh Junction Awards VTOS Awards Night This took place in the Ormonde Hotel on the 11th February. It was an occasion to treasure for over a hundred participants and their families. Awards presented included QQI Levels 3-5, City & Guilds Certificates, Department of Education & Skills, and Attendance Certificates
VTOS Achievements Day Hotel Kilkenny was the venue for the end of year VTOS Achievements Day on the 23rd June 2016, where speakers from different classes shared their experiences of VTOS, as well as collecting awards and certificates from City & Guilds, QQI, & Attendance Certificates.
City & Guilds Medal of Excellence Mary O’Driscoll won a City & Guilds Gold Medal for Excellence in I.T. in February 2016. Mary is a participant on the Q.Q.I. Level 5 eBusiness course and has received distinctions in all her exams since she joined the VTOS programme. This will be the fourth gold medal that V.T.O.S. Kilkenny has secured since 2004. The first recipient was Anthony Ryan in 2004, Iris Agar in 2008, present teacher at V.T.O.S. Donal Costigan in 2010, and now Mary in 2016. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 14 Support Staff 2 Administrative Staff 1 Co-ordinator 1 Total 18 VTOS Co-ordinator: Geraldine Moran
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Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) Carlow T: 059 9140311 F: 059 9140660 E: [email protected] The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) was established to provide a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. It gives participants opportunities to improve their general level of education, gain certification, develop their skills and prepare for employment, self- employment and further education and training. The range of learning options is delivered in an adult friendly environment. VTOS has an excellent reputation for quality training and is geared to meet the needs of the adult learner. Courses are QQI and Department of Education & Skills State Examinations Commission certified. Mission Statement We offer all adults the opportunity to pursue a guided path of education leading to a brighter future. We provide support for a holistic, broad spectrum range of learning in a mutually supportive and friendly atmosphere.
‘You Have The Power to Change Your Life’ Number of Learners Core 40 Dispersed 35 Highlights Programme: All three core programmes completed successfully – Business Administration/General Studies Level 5; QQI Return to Learning Programme Level 3 & Leaving Certificate: ECDL completed by Level 5 students. Dispersed Academics Programmes supported: Special Needs Assistant, Make-up Artistry, Office Administration, Beauty Therapy, Media Production and Photography, Hairdressing, Business Practice, Nursing Studies, Legal Studies, Applied Social Studies, Furniture Design and Making, Animal Care, Web Design and Marketing, Graphic Design, ECDL Receptionist Administration, Early Childhood Care and Education.
Information Sessions provided to students: Money Advice Bureau; Study Skills; Apprenticeship Information; Carlow Access Programme.
Events: Carlow Library visit, Carlow Museum visit; Decorative Arts & History Museum Collins Barracks Visit, In-centre international food celebration event; QQI Level 3 Art Exhibition in centre. Open Days attended: CIFE, Carlow College, Carlow IT, Waterford IT.
Giedre Vilcauskiene – VTOS QQI Level 3 Return to Learning student was Winner of the Adult Education category in the TUI 1916 Art Competition.
Supports: ESOL support programme. Student academic support. Carlow Adult Guidance Service provided supports to students throughout the year for career planning, financial supports information, Open Days, CAO applications and SUSI applications. Staffing Profile Teaching Staff 7.0 Co-ordinator 1.0 Administrative Staff 1.0 Total 9.0 VTOS Co-ordinator: Ms. Una Hayes
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Youthreach Lower New Street, Kilkenny City T: 056 7723550 F: 056 7756897 E: [email protected] Kilkenny Youthreach is an education and training programme for early school leavers. It provides a range of learning options to help meet the needs of young people from 15 to 20 years who have left school early. Kilkenny Youthreach Centre offers young people an opportunity to take a range of Junior and Leaving Certificate subjects as well as FETAC certification. It combines academic and practical subjects with personal development, individual learning support and guidance and counselling.
Mission Statement The purpose of Kilkenny Youthreach is to give young people aged between 15 and 20 the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification and develop social and personal skills in order to participate positively in society Number of Learners 25 Highlights Leaving Certificate Examinations and Results. Leaving Certificate Applied Examinations and Results. Work Experience. All Leaving Certificate Applied and 5th Year students are part in a week work experience programme. Employers involved include a National School, Butchers, Clothes/Shoe Shops, Hotels, Restaurants and a care home to name but a few., Activities - Involved trips to Kilkenny and Thomastown Cookery School, National Craft Gallery, Dublin Zoo, Dublin National Gallery, Water gate Theatre ‘Hamlet’, Curves -Yoga/Pilates, Mindfulness workshop, Glendalough tour, MOG Car Safety, Croke Park 1916 Flag Ceremony, Tramore Sports Day, National Youthreach Midlands Soccer Tournament Portlaoise, Dunmore Adventure Centre, Aviva Ireland International Soccer match, Christmas Shopping Dublin, Careers Day Projects - Young Entrepreneur, Mini company ‘Pocket Pals’, Junk Kouture Southern Finalists . and Ossory Youth ‘Greenside Up’ communal gardens project. Students attended many Open days and Career Information seminars arranged by the ETB Adult Guidance Service throughout the year. Students completed the Bronze Gaisce Awards. Soccer league and Soccer Blitz in Watershed involving local Schools and Youthreach Centres. School Awards Day. Staffing Profile Youthreach Co-ordinator 1 Tutors/Resource Workers 5 Total 6 Youthreach Co-Ordinator: Mr. Paul Walsh
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Youthreach Tullow Road, Carlow T: 059 9142032/42033 F: 059 9141902 E: [email protected] Youthreach Carlow is an education and training programme for early school leavers returning to education. It provides a range of learning opportunities for learners between the ages of 16-21. The overall aim of the programme is to enhance the educational, vocational and personal capacity of its students. Youthreach Carlow offers its students the opportunity to gain accreditation through a range of QQI Level 3 & 4 modules as well as the Leaving Certificate.
Mission Statement Our mission is to provide second chance education and personal development opportunities for each individual learner, in a safe, respectful, challenging and flexible environment Number of Learners 25 Highlights 1 student was successful in securing an apprenticeship from the centre 2 students gained employment from the centre. 6 students completed their Leaving Certificate exams in June 2016 and all are aiming to pursue PLC programmes. 3 students were awarded a level four certificate in General Learning 50 QQI folders at Level 4 were submitted for authentication in May 2016 5 students were awarded a level three certificate in General Learning 52 QQI folders at Level 3 were submitted for authentication in May 2016 The Centre won the Senior Eco-Community Development category at the ECO-UNESCO National Awards 2016 for their upcycling project ‘Wooden it be Nice’ (May 2016). This is the third year in a row that Youthreach students have been successful in the environmental awards. Students took part in a special state ceremony in Croke Park where they received the National Flag and a copy of the Proclamation as part of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme (March 2016) Students wrote and performed their own play, ‘1916 – 2016: Family Matters’ to mark the commemoration of 1916. The Drama was successful in receiving a grant from Carlow County Council and was featured as part of the national programme of events Parents and invited guests attended the performance of the drama on the anniversary of the Rising (March 2016). The Centre welcomed the support of the Adult Education Guidance team who gave advice to students leaving the Centre this year to pursue other education and work opportunities. ‘Feeding Ireland’s Future’ programme was a new venture for the centre to be involved with this year and students attended a workshop sponsored by Lever Brothers which was a welcome addition to preparing students for the world of work. 10 students are completing their Work Experience QQI folder with placements including restaurant skills; animal care; child care; horticulture, retail skills and construction (June-August 2016). Students took part in activities including Sand & Bucket Drama Theatre, Show Racism the Red Card, Come Dine with Me, Road Safety, Cycle Power, Keep Sexually Safe programme, Internet Safety and visits to Visual Art Gallery and they travelled to Dublin on a number of occasions with the most interesting trip being a visit to Glasnevin cemetery The physical activity programme involved students taking part in a Youthreach regional soccer tournament and an inter schools and youth services soccer league and some students participated in a six week keep- fit boot camp. Students were involved in many fundraising activities with Carlow Volunteer Centre including Special Olympics and Lollipop Day for oesophageal cancer. They attended a ‘Thank You’ event in recognition of their work in the community. An end of year activity day took place in Castlecomer Discovery Park, all students enjoyed the challenging experience. The co-ordinator chaired meetings throughout the year of the Education and Training sub group of Carlow Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CCYPSC). The collaboration with education services is aimed at giving our students support in accessing and completing programmes at further and third level education. Staffing Profile Youthreach Co-ordinator 1.00 Resource Person 1.75 Teachers 2.40 Counsellor .10 Total 5.25 Youthreach Co-Ordinator: Ms. Martina Osborne
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Youth Office Carlow 1A Meadow Court, Burrin St., Carlow Phone: 0857759268 / 0599179465
Definition of Youth Work and Responsibilities of KCETB in relation to Youth Work Section 3 of the Youth Work Act, 2001, defines Youth Work as follows: A planned programme of education designed for the purpose of aiding and enhancing the personal and social development of young person’s through their voluntary participation and which is A: complementary to their formal, academic or vocational training B: provided primarily by voluntary youth work organisation
Section 10 of the ETB Act, 2013, identifies key functions for ETBs with respect to Youth Work (i) Support the provision, co-ordination, administration and assessment of youth work services in its functional area and provide such information as may be requested by the Minister in relation to such support and (j) assess the manner in which it performs its functions is economical, efficient and effective. Highlights of Carlow Youth Office Co-ordination of programmes under the DCYA YPFSF including the ‘Reaching Out’ Youth Arts and Cultural Grant for 13 schools and the Youth Work Programme Funding Grant for 14 Youth Work Based Projects Administration of grants on behalf of DCYA including the Youth Employability Initiative, Capital Grant and the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme The implementation of the National Quality Standard Framework for the Youth Work Sector and Voluntary Youth Club Sector Various trainings for 76 youth workers and youth volunteers including QQI 5 in Youth Work (in partnership with CRYS), First Aid, Child Protection and Challenging Encounters training (in conjunction with Youth Office Kilkenny).
Staffing Profile Administrator .5 Co-ordinator 1 Total 1.5 Youth Officer Mairead Donohoe
Kilkenny Youth Office Lower New Street Kilkenny Phone: 086 0494652
Highlights of Kilkenny Youth Office Carry out quality assurance programmes with youth work services (National Quality Standards Framework) and with volunteer-led youth groups (National Quality Standards for Volunteer-Led Youth Groups) Administer funding to youth work services on behalf on various government departments. Co-ordinate and organise Community projects within youth clubs and groups. Administer the local youth grant scheme which provides small grants for volunteer led youth groups. (add in number of groups and young people) Provide training for volunteers and youth workers. Promote the integration and co-ordination of youth work services through participation in networks and committees. Report to government departments on projects and services funded through the ETB, including validating annual reports and funding applications. 60 youth workers and youth volunteers completed various training including, First Aid, Child Protection and Challenging Encounters training. Staffing Profile Youth Officer Saoirse Prendergast
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Role of Board Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board has 21 members. It has a formal schedule of functions as set out in the Education and Training Boards Act 2013 and the Code of Practice for the Governance of ETBs (page 6). These reserved functions are supported by legislation and include items for decision and approval. The Board is supported by an Executive which is responsible for the implementation of plans, day to day management and functions not reserved for the Board. An organisational structure with appropriately defined authority levels and reporting structures underpins the organisation
Kilkenny and Carlow ETB members and designated staff provide annual Disclosures of Interests in respect of issues that could materially influence the performance of functions. In addition, the Board has adopted a Code of Governance for the ETB and this has been provided to all members and staff.
The Board held the required scheduled meetings during 2015 on; 5th February 2015, 2nd April 2015, 18th June 2015 17th September 2015 and 19th November 2015. A register of attendance is maintained. Minutes are maintained and adopted at Board meetings.
Board members are provided with appropriate documentation outlining their functions and responsibilities.
Committees The Board has established a number of committees including the Finance Committee and the Audit Committee, Boards of Management and other committees as appropriate. These Committees are composed of Board Members and /or agreed other representation.
Audit Committee The Audit Committee is independent of management and provides assurances to the Board as to the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control processes including risk management and corporate governance. The new Audit Committee met on 21st December 2015. It received reports from management as well as external and internal audit. The Board has regard to the Audit Committee in adopting a statement of internal control and approving the annual accounts.
Items considered by the Audit Committee during 2015 included: Briefing on Role/Function of Audit Committee Internal Audit Unit European Social Fund Audit Comptroller and Auditor General Audits
Finance Committee The Finance Committee has responsibility for reviewing the income/expenditure of the ETB, major contracts and the financial aspects of the education and service plans. It met twice during 2015. A report from the Finance Committee is received by the Board for consideration and to assist in providing assurance that the education and service plans are being implemented.
Items considered by the Finance Committee during 2015 included: Briefing on the role and functions of the Committee Draft Capital Projects Report Contracts in excess of €50,000 Draft Annual Financial Statement 2014 Review of Income and expenditure to 31st December 2014
Internal Control The Board has overall responsibility for ensuring that an effective system of internal financial control is maintained and operated. The Executive has day-to-day responsibilities for implementing the system of internal control.
The system of internal control operated is based on detailed administrative procedures, segregation of duties, specific authorisation and regular review by management of reports outlining actual and budgeted results of programmes.
The Board’s monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the system of internal control is informed by the: Work of the Audit Committee Chief Executive who has responsibility for the financial control framework Recommendations by the Comptroller & Auditor General.
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Annual Financial Statement
From 1st January to 31st December 2015
RECEIPTS :
Schools & Head Office 30,984,929 Further Education and Training 7,278,289 Student Support Services 383,940 Youth Services 454,715 Agencies and Self Financing Projects 3,413,291 Capital 4,734,520 47,249,684
Expenditu re : Schools & Head Office 31,698,900 Further Education and Training 7,514,685 Student Support Services 379,110 Youth Services 453,142 Agencies and Self Financing Projects 3,417,592 Schools & Head Office 2,631,116 Further Education and Training 31,698,900 46,094,545 (Capital already included)
CE Salary :
The gross salary of the Chief Executive of Kilkenny and Carlow ETB for the period 01/01/2015 to 31/12/2015 was €115,755.96.
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Travel and Subsistence
Expenses are paid to Board members for travel to ETB related meetings. The aggregated expenses paid to each member in the twelve months to 31 December 2015 were:
Number of Attendance at Statutory Interview Board Board member Conferences/ Other Total Meetings Boards Meetings Seminars Attended € € € € €
Ahern Anne 329 329 3
Bennett Alice 85 128 213 2
Brophy Gerard 0 3
Browne Fergal 170 170 5
Cavanagh Mary Hilda (Chair) 857 2,698 345 2,850 6,750 4 Cleere Peter 791 739 447 402 2,379 5 Daly Michael 598 542 173 85 1,398 5 Doherty Fidelis 1,203 1,650 2,853 4
Doran Matt 757 3,007 3,764 4
Foley Denis 1,002 65 1,305 3,798 6,170 3 Frisby Gerard 907 1,122 360 334 2,723 4 Gardner Breda 58 58 1
Kearns Elaine 682 682 4
Manogue Richard 135 131 266 2
McKee Patrick 282 282 3
Mhic Caitlín 262 2,434 303 2,999 4 Cárthaigh Murnane Jennifer 547 547 4 O'Connor Reddy Eleanor 0 3 Shirley Keith 398 398 5 Shortall Maurice 1,120 1,963 3,083 4 Warren Sean 1,371 1,371 5 Total 11,272 14,633 2,630 7,900 36,435
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Staffing Profile 2015 Chief Executive 1.00 Education Officer 1.00
Second Level Principals 13.00 Deputy Principals 14.00 Teaching Staff (wte) 355.67
Adult Education Adult Education Officer 1.00 Co-Ordinators/Facilitators 10.00 Guidance Counsellors 4.75 Youth Officer 2.00 Resource Tutors 10.00 Teachers/Tutors (wte) 18.39 Information Officer 2.0
Administrative Staff (wte) 72.43 Ancillary Staff (wte) 31.52 Special Needs Assistants (wte) 30.00
Total (whole time equivalent) 566.76
Approx. 350 Tutors/Teachers are employed on a part-time basis on Adult Literacy, Community Education, Back to Education and Evening Class Programmes.
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NOTE: This draft report remains confidential to Board members until it has been laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and is cleared for publication
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