Hard work of Athy adult learners recognised
Jim Phelan, Marion Phillips, Mick Cully, and Michael Devereux
ATHY Further Education and Training Centre was abuzz with pride and celebration on the evening of Thursday 22 May, as the Adult Basic Education (ABE) service held its presentation of certificates.
The event took place at the centre on the Carlow Road and brought together over 80 adult learners, their families, and staff and educators to mark the successful completion of a wide range of QQI-accredited and non-certified courses.
The QQI certificates presented on the night covered an impressive breadth of courses. These included courses in Computer Skills such as Word Processing, Internet Skills, and Spreadsheets Level 3; English as a Second Language (ESOL) Level 3 and 4; and a variety of creative courses including Drawing, Art and Crafts, Mosaics, Art & Design, Craft Appliqué, and Craft Textiles all Level 3.
Learners also received certification in essential Level 2 and 3 programmes such as Communications, Career Preparation, and Office Procedures.
Additional certificates were awarded to learners from the local community who completed English language classes designed for speakers of other languages. These programmes play a vital role in fostering inclusion, building confidence, and enhancing employment prospects for many individuals living and working in Athy and its surrounding areas.
The event was attended by a number of distinguished guests including, adult education officer Una Burke, quality assurance adult education officer Brenda Lynch, as well as ABE staff and tutors.
A display of the learners Art and Craft work was also on display which showcases the talent and hard work completed by the learners and their tutors.
A particularly poignant moment of the evening was the tribute paid to Imelda Carroll, who is set to retire this year after three decades of exemplary service in adult education. As adult literacy organiser for Athy and Kildare, Imelda has been a cornerstone of the ABE service, dedicating her career to empowering adult learners and promoting literacy across the county.
Colleagues, tutors, and learners alike expressed deep gratitude for her unwavering commitment, compassion, and vision. Her departure marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to resonate in the lives she has touched and the systems she helped to build in Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB) and in the Athy and Kildare centres.
Imelda was presented with a commissioned gift from local artist Ciara ‘ Keeffe by the ABE staff and tutors.
As the 2025-2026 academic year approaches, Athy Further Education and Training Centre is inviting new learners to explore its part-time and full-time courses, with registration now open.
Prospective students can visit the centre in person or register online at www.fetchcourses.ie. Full course details are also available on the centre’s website: www.athyfetc.ie.
