Minister Lawless turns the sod for KCETB College of FET, Kilkenny, equestrian campus

Pictured from left are Jennifer Collins (Deputy Principal, College of FET, Kilkenny), Aimee Mackey OÕDonohue (student), Gemma Lee, Cindy Hutchinson, Crea English (College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus Staff), Jessica Hanrahan (student), and Una Hayes (Principal College of FET, Kilkenny) | Dylan Vaughan

placeholder image — Pictured from left are Jennifer Collins (Deputy Principal, College of FET, Kilkenny), Aimee Mackey OÕDonohue (student), Gemma Lee, Cindy Hutchinson, Crea English (College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus Staff), Jessica Hanrahan (student), and Una Hayes (Principal College of FET, Kilkenny) | Dylan Vaughan

New multi-purpose educational facility will consist of classrooms, canteen facilities, laundry, tack room and ancillary accommodation

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless has turned the sod for building works at College of FET, Kilkenny, equestrian campus as part of the Further Education and Training (FET) Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Programme (SIUP).

This project will see the removal of the existing prefabricated buildings and replacing them with a new multi-purpose educational facility. This new build will consist of classrooms, canteen facilities, laundry, tack room and ancillary accommodation. The works, which will take approximately 14 months to complete are being undertaken by local firm, Ormonde Construction Limited.

The development will also include for associated ancillary site works including roadways and footpaths, car parking areas, public roadway upgrade works, and associated drainage. Works will also include an upgrade to the existing fire alarm and emergency lighting systems.

Strategically, this project reflects KCETB's commitment to developing world-class learning environments that support skills development, regional economic growth and learner success. As a nationally recognised centre for horsemanship and equine studies, our Equestrian Campus plays a vital role in preparing learners for careers in Ireland's globally significant equine sector, while also creating pathways into employment and further study.

This investment demonstrates the importance of sustained collaboration between KCETB, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and SOLAS in building the infrastructure required to meet future skills needs and support thriving communities across Kilkenny, Carlow and the wider South-East.

“I am delighted that this project has progressed to this important milestone for this unique facility that provides the foundations where potential meets performance. The training courses in Thomastown provide the skills required for horsemanship and equine studies which are very important industries in the south-east region and beyond. I am happy to see the FET sector playing its part in specialist skills development and providing pathways to employment,” said Minister Lawless.

“On completion, this facility will help provide other education opportunities that will facilitate learners in reaching their full potential. I would like to thank Dr Lindsay Malone, CE of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board, and her dedicated staff, SOLAS, the Design Team along with my own Department colleagues for all their hard work to get this project to this significant stage."

Pictured from left are Martha Bolger, Minister James Lawless, TD and Dr Lindsay Malone, Chief Executive at KCETB | Dylan Vaughan

Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said: "This project represents a structural leap forward for further education and training in Ireland, providing a dedicated space where passion meets modern professionalism. Our equine sector thrives on unparalleled tradition, but its future relies on cutting-edge skills, rigorous safety, and the highest standards of animal welfare. By investing in this facility, we are giving learners an excellent training environment to master their craft. We are creating a launchpad for the future leaders, handlers, and innovators of our global equine industry."

Director of Further Education and Training (FET) for KCETB Martha Bolger said: “The entire staff at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus in Thomastown, are delighted with the news that developments to create new purpose-built teaching and learning spaces are now under way. This capital injection will transform the learning experience for the students who choose to undertake Horsemanship at the College of FET every year to study for careers in the equine industry."

CEO of SOLAS, Deirdre McDonnell said: “SOLAS welcomes the commencement of works at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus. This investment in modern facilities and specialist equipment is essential to strengthening the quality of Further Education and Training. This development will enhance the learning environment, support specialist skills development, and help provide clear pathways into employment in the equine industry. We are delighted to support Kilkenny and Carlow ETB in delivering this important project for learners and the wider South-East region.”