Athy NLN celebrates 16 award recipients

SIXTEEN students of the Advance Programme offered by the Athy National Learning Network (NLN) held their awards night recently in the Clanard Court Hotel where they were honoured for their achievements during a prestigious ceremony.

The event was made even more special by the presence of guest speaker Michael English, the renowned Irish country singer, who delivered an inspiring and heartfelt motivational speech on behalf of the students.

He spoke sensitively about his late nephew, Dara Kissane, and reflected on Dara’s time at the NLN, making a deep and emotional connection with the audience.

This year’s ceremony reflected all of the key core values of the NLN, but principally emphasized empowerment, which was highlighted throughout the night with the degree of agency and autonomy each student displayed.

“The network promotes equitable access to education, training, and employment, empowering individuals to develop through personalized learning pathways in inclusive environments that build confidence and a sense of belonging,” according to spokesperson Annemarie Hogan.

Throughout the year, students demonstrated dedication and commitment, earning certification in a variety of modules to include many QQI Level Awards and other awards to complement their engagement in their local community.

These awards highlight the students’ hard work and recognise their growth in areas that support independent living and workplace readiness.

Local employers and community groups who offered work placements to NLN students were also in attendance and were acknowledged for their invaluable support.

Their partnership has been crucial in providing students with real-life opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.

These employers have become strong advocates for the Advance Programme and the potential of its students.

Assistant Area Manager Ryan Parker with Instructors Anne Marie Hogan, Evelyn Khriref, Christine Somers and Ciara Prior expressed immense pride in all the students—both past and present—who have been part of the Advance Programme.

To conclude what had been a fantastic evening, Instructor Tanya Sheridan led the students in a performance of Irish Sign Language for the audience—a moving and well-received finale that left a lasting impression on all.

The award recipients area: Craig Reck, Peter Dooley O'Donnell, Sophie McDonald, Cameron Peters, Sean Doyle, Adam Cullen, Aoibhe Newman, Kirsty Curtis, Danielle O Brien, Brittany Soki, Conor Brennan, Aaron Murphy, Kirsty Curtis, Perfact Nleya, Bailey O Mahoney & Jean Corcoran.