Pictures: Proud day as Kilkenny Youthreach celebrates its learners' achievements

Kilkenny Youthreach marked a proud and uplifting occasion recently with its annual awards day, held in Butler House.

Surrounded by its beautiful grounds, the event brought together students, staff, families, and invited guests to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the learners, honouring their hard work and personal growth over the past year.

The centre has provided a second chance to hundreds of early school leavers aged 15-20 years from all over the city and county since 1998. Operated and managed by KCETB, Kilkenny Youthreach offers young people the opportunity to achieve a Leaving Certificate qualification in an out-of-school setting and to develop social and personal skills in a safe and supportive environment.

During the ceremony, Youthreach learner Sidney McCarthy shared a heartfelt reflection on the support he received from staff throughout his time at the centre. He spoke about how, from the very beginning, he felt encouraged and uplifted, allowing him to start believing in his own potential and ultimately succeed.
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Sidney’s words resonated with everyone in the room, as he expressed deep gratitude for the constant guidance and encouragement he received. Another standout moment came when Kelly Marie Power, another graduate, moved the audience with a beautiful poem she had composed for the staff. Her words were a tribute to the dedication of the staff and the profound impact the centre had on her life.

Students who received awards were Student of the Year: Keira Hennessy, Best Attendance: Fraya Galvin, School Spirit Award: Natoyia Parker, Pinnacle Award: Jamie Deegan, Art Student of the Year: Kelly Marie Power, Sports Person of the Year: Rory O’Connor, Creative Writing Award: Sarah Beehan.

Gaisce Bronze medals were presented to students for The President’s Award. Well-deserved recognition was offered to the STEAM group at Kilkenny Youthreach for their exceptional achievements, including being named finalists in the Eco-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards for their innovative sustainability project, which demonstrated their commitment to environmental stewardship.

This academic year, Kilkenny Youthreach also received the Mission Possible School Achievement Award, AIB Future Sparks Exemplary School Award, and the Pieta House Amber Flag. The awards are not just individual honours but reflect the centre’s broader dedication to creating a supportive, empowering environment for all learners. They underscore Kilkenny Youthreach’s commitment to fostering holistic development, resilience, and well-being, while making a meaningful impact within the community.

Michelle Murphy, Coordinator of Kilkenny Youthreach, commended this year’s graduates for their hard work in completing their Leaving Certificate studies. Michelle acknowledged the impact of the learner supports available in Youthreach and the valuable role they have played in helping this group of learners achieve their goals.

Martha Bolger, Director of Further Education and Training and John O’Neill, Adult Education Officer also addressed the learners at the awards. Martha congratulated all the learners on their accomplishments and urged them to remain resilient and continue moving forward.

John referenced the quote from the graduation booklet: “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.”

He reminded the learners that every lesson, challenge, and experience they've encountered at Youthreach has been preparing them for the life ahead. He encouraged them to view their education as the foundation for their future, equipping them with the skills and confidence to face what comes next.

APPLICATIONS
Applications for academic year 2025-2026 currently accepted. Enquiries to info@kilkennyyouthreach.ie or 056-7723550.