THE Munster Technological University hosted its Kerry Careers Fair on Tuesday in the Kerry Sports Academy at MTU’s Kerry North Campus in Tralee.
Major organisations from the public sector, industry, business and healthcare featured at the Fair which showcased graduate employment opportunities as well as internship and placement opportunities across all disciplines with a diverse number of fields which include Health, Biomedical, Pharmaceutical, Social Care, Engineering, Environmental, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Business, Accounting, Marketing, Investment, Technology, Cybersecurity, Construction, Apprentices, Agriculture and more.
Exhibitors included Astellas, Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, CField Construction, Continumcommerce, CSG, Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, Eli Lilly and Company, Enable Ireland, ENERCON Windfarm Services Ireland, Energywise Ireland, Enterprise Mobility, Fehily Timoney & Company, FEXCO and FRS Recruitment to name but a few.
A CV clinic also ran for the duration of the Careers Fair, providing an opportunity for students to receive personalised feedback and advice on their curriculum vitae. Scroll down for photos…
.Students Raonaid de Rossa and Lily Ní Iarlaithe with their Junior Cert results at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE wait ended for hundreds of students in Tralee this morning as the Junior Cert results were released.
Students in Mercy Mounthawk, CBS The Green and Colaiste Gleann Li received their envelopes in late morning while Presentation and Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí pupils got their results a little later, just before 1pm.
There were 2,186 Kerry students in all receiving the results on the day and it’s safe to say most were delighted their hard work paid off. Scroll down for photos…
Students Ava Sharma, Ria Murphy Quirke, Emily Moloney and Isobel O’Sullivan with their Junior Cert results at Coláiste Gleann Lí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Brendan McCarthy, Dylan Alder and Brian Feeley with their Junior Cert results at Coláiste Gleann Lí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Meabh O’Connell, Aoife Trant, Aobhín O’Sullivan, Roanna O’Sullivan, and Molly Brick with their Junior Cert results at Mercy Mounthawk on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Keita Vilmane, Lisa O’Shea and Ava O’Connor with their Junior Cert results at Mercy Mounthawk on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Laya Bauschlicher, Katelyn McElligott, Leah Culloty, Violeta Attallah and Meng Ni Chen with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Kayla Commane and Estelle Chval with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents with their Junior Cert results at CBS The Green on Wednesday morning. Photo: CBS Social Media.Students with their Junior Cert results at CBS The Green on Wednesday morning. Photo: CBS Social MediaStudents Bailey Ní Shuilleabáin and Jamie Ní Mhórdha with their Junior Cert results at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Lianna Ní Chróimín, Kate Ní Shuilleabáin and Rachel Ní Fháilbhe with their Junior Cert results at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Eamen Alisia, Peter O’Neill Reid, Connor Sheehan and Jack Costelloe Walsh with their Junior Cert results at Coláiste Gleann Lí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Deputy Principal Muirne Egan and student Dylan Alder with his Junior Cert results at Coláiste Gleann Lí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Emily McSweeney, Anastasija Puzanova, Christina Mmusi, Elizabete Silina, Ivie Marice Farina Osazuwa and Kaydence O’Mahony with their Junior Cert results at Coláiste Gleann Lí on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Ciaran Skinner and Ben Hickey with their Junior Cert results at Mercy Mounthawk on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Giorgia Kennedy and Aobh Culloty with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Eshaal Faiz, Bethany Libutlibut and Blessing Ilunga with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents Jessica Glynn Kostrzewa and Georgina Kennedy with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Students Sophie Leen and Aoibhín Leahy with their Junior Cert results at Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStudents with their Junior Cert results at CBS The Green on Wednesday morning. Photo: CBS Social Media.Students with their Junior Cert results at CBS The Green on Wednesday morning. Photo: CBS Social MediaStudents with their Junior Cert results at CBS The Green on Wednesday morning. Photo: CBS Social Media.
Kerry’s Junior Cycle candidates should celebrate an outstanding achievement as exam results again issued early says Billy Ryle…
Junior Cycle exam results were issued by the State Examinations Commission (SEC) today, Wednesday, to 72,828 candidates nationwide, including 2,186 from Kerry.
Junior Cycle results are available to candidates in their schools from early morning. Junior Cycle exam results in Kerry were superb and on par with the very high standard of last year. The results again confirm that candidates have adapted well to the new grade descriptors.
The number of candidates who sat for the Junior Cycle exam this year was 2,101 or 3% up on the 2023 figure of 70,727 and a whopping 5,693 or 8% up on the 2022 figure of 67,135.
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Last year was the first time that a Junior Cycle exam – or its predecessors, the Intermediate Cert exam and the Junior Certexam – has exceeded 70,000 candidates, indicative of substantial population growth in that age profile and higher retention rates in post-primary education.
Six grade descriptors – Distinction, Higher Merit, Merit, Achieved, Partially Achieved, Not Graded – are now used in the reformed Junior Cycle programme, replacing the old A, B, C, D, E, F and NG grades.
The Junior Cycle exams were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid concerns and replaced with a system of school assessments. Since 2022, when the Junior Cycle exam was once again held, all subjects are examined under the new Junior Cycle grade descriptors.
English, Irish and Mathematics are examined at both higher and ordinary levels while all other subjects are examined at common level. In the Junior Cycle exams, Irish is examined at two strands with T1 aimed at native speakers and T2 aimed at non-native speakers.
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The Junior Cycle exam results were issued later last year on 18th October, so Minister Norma Foley and the SEC must be commended for getting the results out nine days earlier this year, on the 9th October, and very close to the pre Covid 2019 Junior Cycle results date of 4th October.
The increased availability of markers and a major move to online marking in almost all subjects has seen the state exam results return to a more normal timeframe. It’s wonderful also that students, are once again getting state exam experience after the disruption of the Covid years.
The old Junior Certificate exam and its predecessor, the Intermediate Cert, fulfilled their purpose back in the day, but the reformed Junior Cycle programme is far more suitable for the current student body.
When you combine this achievement with the reforms that are currently in train at Leaving Cert level, there’s no doubt that post-primary education in Ireland is as good as you’d get in any country in the world.
The icing on the cake is the, once again, publication of the 2024 state exam results close to the pre covid 2019 timeline for the convenience of Leaving Cert and Junior Cycle students.
The reporting process at Junior Cycle culminates in the awarding of the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA)to students. The JCPA replaces the Junior Cert and consequently the SEC no longer issues these certificates.
The JCPA confirms the level of achievement in learning, under five descriptors – exceptional, above expectations, in line with expectations, yet to meet expectations and not reported, across all areas of learning including Classroom-Based Assessments (CBA), Short Courses, Priority Learning Units and other areas of learning, as well as the SEC exam results.
The Junior Cycle exam is often overshadowed by the more public Leaving Cert exam but it’s a very important exam in its own right. It’s a prestigious exam of the State Examinations Commission and it’s the first opportunity for second level students to engage with a public exam of this nature.
With very few students now leaving school after this exam, the Junior Cycle is proving to be a significant safeguard against early drop out of at-risk students and a major force in the reduction of inequality in Irish education. Its primarily a passport to Senior Cycle education, which is a further two years – three years if the optional Transition Year is included. During the final two years of Senior Cycle, students take the traditional Leaving Certificate (LC), the Leaving Certificate Vocational Program (LCVP) or the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA).
Most schools will now give those moving on to 5th year a few days to finalize their subject grouping for Senior Cycle. Consider your Leaving Cert subject choice very carefully.
Start thinking about your college course options and the related careers because, this time next year, it will be your turn to apply for college. Congratulations to all candidates, who received Junior Cycle exam results. Be proud of your achievement and good luck in the Senior Cycle.
✓ 72,828 candidates, including 2,186 from Kerry received Junior Cycle results
✓ Junior Cycle exam results in Kerry were superb
✓ Six grade descriptors are used – Distinction, Higher Merit, Merit, Achieved, Partially Achieved, Not Graded
✓ The Junior Cycle exams were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid concerns
✓ English, Irish and Mathematics were examined at both higher and ordinary levels
✓ All other subjects were examined at common level
✓ Junior Cycle students are awarded the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA)
✓ The JCPA confirms the level of achievement in learning, under five descriptors – exceptional, above expectations, in line with expectations, yet to meet expectations and not reported
✓ Junior Cycle is a passport to Senior Cycle education- LC, LCVP or LCA
✓ Congratulations to all candidates, who received Junior Cycle exam results on Wednesday
• Billy Ryle is a Career Guidance Counsellor and Educational Commentator
PRESENTATION Secondary School Tralee is preparing for its Open Day next Saturday, October 12, from 11am to 1pm.
Driving Academic Excellence Since 1809
At Presentation Secondary School Tralee, we are proud of our long-standing tradition of educating young girls and consistently surpassing national standards. Our commitment to academic excellence has produced top-performing students year after year.
Experience the ‘Tus Maith’ Induction Programme
Our incoming first-year students are welcomed with the unique ‘Tus Maith’ induction programme. This engaging experience introduces young minds to the exciting world of secondary education in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through interactive and enjoyable activities, students get a head start on their educational journey.
Explore a World of Opportunities
We offer a subject taster module, allowing students to explore all subjects and short courses before making their ultimate choices for the Junior Cycle. This ensures that every student finds their passion and excels in their chosen fields.
Dynamic Partnerships and Comprehensive Learning
Our extensive curricular offerings are enhanced by our dynamic school cooperation programme. This collaboration spans various subjects, including Construction Studies, Technology, IT Multimedia, and Photography, providing a transformative and comprehensive learning experience.
Nurturing Future Leaders
At Presentation Tralee, we believe in nurturing not just academic excellence but also cultivating future leaders. Our committed and experienced staff introduce students to a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and the arts to enterprise, innovation, and digital technologies.
Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for us, with multiple milestones and successes some of which include:
• Pres Panthers: Awarded All Ireland Schools Basketball B Champions
• U 16.5 Camogie Team defended Junior Champions Title at the Kerry Group blitz
• BT Young Scientist: Overall Group Runner-Up
• Scifest: Winner Communications Award
• Microsoft Dreamspace Ambassador Programme: Platinum Award
• Texaco Children’s Art Competition: Special Merit Award
• Green School’s 6th Renewal Flag Re: Global Citizenship Litter & Waste
• Garda Youth Achievement Awards: Community Safety Award
Additionally, we are thrilled to announce a multi euro investment to usher modernisation and expansions of our campus and faacilities combined with a €150,897 sports capital grant in September 2024. This will fund the installation of an astropitch, a fantastic development for our school campus and community.
Join Us for Our Open Day!
We invite you to join us for our Open Day Saturday October 12th at 11:00am and experience first-hand the vibrant and energetic environment at Presentation Secondary School Tralee. Discover how we drive academic excellence and nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
.Former Kerry College student Caoimhe O’Gorman (second from right) who won the ‘Maths Eyes’ award. Also included is teacher Katie Zubeyko, teacher Dorothy Byrne, Kerry College Principal Stephen Goulding. Photo by Dermot Crean
A KERRY College graduate has won a national award in the ‘Maths Eyes’ competition.
Caoimhe O’Gorman began her QQI Level 5 Applied Science programme at Kerry College last year.
Minister for Education Norma Foley presented Caoimhe with a plaque and a poster print of her entry at a special ceremony which took place at The Clock Tower, Department of Education recently.
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Her entry was titled ‘did you hear about that well-educated circle? They have got 360 degrees’. The competition itself was run by the Maths Week Team at SETU Waterford and it asked students to create a Maths Eyes style poster, using a photograph taken in their local area and to include an accompanying tagline that highlights the mathematics they see in the photo using their Maths Eyes.
Caoimhe said; “Maths Eyes is a project dedicated to helping people of all ages and backgrounds discover how maths is relevant to their own lives. This was a skill that I developed while studying at Kerry College, Clash Road Campus. It was here I received the personal attention that allowed me to flourish at Maths. My teacher, Dorothy Byrne, was dedicated and passionate. Dorothy’s approach brought every concept in Maths alive, it was all real-life application and we were constantly looking at how we could make a difference in the world of science with Maths.”
Caoimhe has now progressed to the Munster Technological University where she is studying towards a Level 8 Bachelors Hons Degree in Pharmaceutical Science.
She is particularly proud of all she has achieved in the last year and speaks highly of the experience she had at Kerry College.
“I would recommend it to anyone, it is a truly supportive environment and it allowed me to grow not only academically but also socially and interpersonally,” she said.
Dorothy Byrne, Maths teacher at Kerry College, said; “If people are supported to look at familiar things, and begin to see that maths is all around them, they can build confidence in their own ability to use maths. Maths is less intimidating when it is relevant and useful in our lives.’ Dorothy went on to say ‘I’m so proud of Caoimhe, she was an excellent student when she was with us last year, she was always so interested and enthusiastic and dedicated in all her Applied Science modules. I wish her the very best in her further studies in MTU Tralee.”
A delighted Caoimhe says she will always remember this accomplishment. “I entered the competition to challenge myself. I didn’t expect to get to the qualifying stages not to mind win the competition. As you get a bit older you don’t remember the grades you got, you remember standout accomplishments like this and that’s why this award is so special. My family came to Dublin with me and we had a great day together. I am particularly happy that Norma Foley took time out of her busy schedule to present this award to me.”
Maths Eyes is sponsored by Avonbeg Consulting, the School of Mathematics & Statistics at Technological University Dublin, the Maths Week Ireland Team.
CARA Credit Union is excited to announce its highly anticipated “CU Through Your Interview” initiative to all Transition Year (TY) has begun with a visit to Mean Scoil Nua an Leith Triúigh.
Partnering with Mary Lucey of Career Ahead, this initiative aims to equip TY students with essential interview skills and provide them with invaluable first-hand interview experience.
The program will reach TY classes across fourteen secondary schools in Cara Credit Unions common bond area and reach nearly 800 TY students in total.
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It includes comprehensive interview workshops and mock interviews, designed to prepare students for real-world job interviews. “We will conduct face-to-face workshops to teach vital interview skills and techniques. Following these workshops, we will return to each school to conduct mock interviews,” explained Philip Lynch, Marketing Officer at Cara Credit Union. “The interview panels will consist of Mary Lucey of Career Ahead and experienced Cara Credit Union staff, who will provide students with constructive feedback.”
An integral part of the initiative is a budgeting workshop, aimed at educating students on financial literacy. “For many students, this may be their first experience receiving an income from a part-time job. We are here to teach them the importance of saving and managing their money wisely,” added Lynch.
Additionally, Cara Credit Union is promoting its FREE globally accepted MasterCard Debit Card for students. “It’s crucial for anyone receiving an income to keep their money safe. We are informing students that they can open a FREE Cara Credit Union current account, which includes a globally accepted MasterCard Debit Card and other fantastic features to ensure their money is secure,” Lynch highlighted.
For more information on Cara Credit Union’s current account call 066 712 2373, visit www.caracreditunion.ie or by visit your local Cara Credit Union branch in Tralee, Castleisland, Killorglin, Ballyduff, Causeway or Corca Dhuibhne.
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For further information contact Philip.lynch@caracreditunion.ie or call 087 7105430.
Kerry’s youth celebrated at the Lee Strand/Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards 2024. Photo Domnick Walsh
TWO hundred people from across the county attended the 27th celebration of the Lee Strand Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards 2024 in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Tralee on Friday.
Twenty-five awards were presented accompanied with an inspiring citation of each winner’s achievements. Twenty Merit Awards, a Group Award, a Special Achievement Award, a Community Safety Award, Inspiring our Youth Award and the Overall Winner Award were presented on the night.
The awards scheme which first commenced in 1998 are held for youths between the ages of thirteen and twenty-one years and recognise the great contribution young people have made and continue to make to their communities in Kerry.
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Fourteen year-old Cillian O’Leary from Kilcummin in Killarney was announced as the Overall Winner of the Lee Strand Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards 2024.
The Lee Strand Kerry Garda Group Award was presented to Meán Scoil Nua an Leith Triúigh (TY Class of 2024). The Lee Strand Kerry Garda Youth Special Achievement Award was presented to Taylor Lynch.
The Lee Strand Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Community Safety Award was presented to Ciara Murphy & Saoirse Murphy. The Inspiring our Youth Award was presented to Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh.
Twenty Lee Strand Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Merit Award Certificates were presented to individuals who have made a positive contribution to their community and make it a better place to live. The recipients were: Blathnaid Casey; Callum Russell; Caoimhe Brosnan; Calvin O’Sullivan; Chloe Mason; Clodagh McGorrian; Erin O’Connor; Fionn Spillane; Jack Collins; Liam Smith; Mic Oscailte Group (Jack O’Céilleachair, Katie Ní Chéilleachair, Liam MacGabhann & Emily NicGabhann); Mikey McGlynn; Morgan O’Flaherty; Padraic McCarthy; Patrick Joseph O’Sullivan; Presentation Secondary School Tralee (Dream Spacers); Rebecca O’Sullivan; Sadhbh O’Halloran; Shauna Harris and Sliabh Luachra Boxing Club (Youth Leadership Group).
Chief Superintendent Padraic Powell stated; “It is fundamental that the youth of this country are recognised for the crucial role they play in the future of our Society. An Garda Síochána is committed to ensuring this is reinforced via the Garda Youth Achievement Awards in collaboration with Lee Strand.
“It is essential that we recognise their excellent contribution to society in areas of sports, arts, culture & charity and also in the way they may selflessly and lovingly care for a relative or friend. These awards have a positive impact on our wider community in celebrating the achievements of such outstanding young people and I would like to extend our appreciation and thanks to Lee Strand for their continued sponsorship and support.”
Kieran Savage, Chairperson, Lee Strand commented; “Lee Strand is delighted to support the Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards since 1998. Over the past 27 years Lee Strand in association with An Garda Siochana have always been proactive in acknowledging and identifying the positive work by young people and voluntary groups to enhance community life in Kerry.
“The awards are a fantastic celebration of their outstanding achievements. We would like to congratulate all of this year’s winners and thank our customers for supporting Lee Strand. It is only with the continued support of our customers that enables Lee Strand to continue to sponsor great celebrations like the Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards.”
Overall Winner – Cillian O’Leary
Group Award – Meán Scoil Nua an Leith Triúigh (TY Class of 2024)
Special Achievement Award – Taylor Lynch
Community Safety Award – Ciara Murphy & Saoirse Murphy
Inspiring our Youth Award – Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh
Merit Awards
Blathnaid Casey
Callum Russell
Caoimhe Brosnan
Calvin O’Sullivan
Chloe Mason
Clodagh McGorrian
Erin O’Connor
Fionn Spillane
Jack Collins
Liam Smith
Mic Oscailte Group (Jack O’Céilleachair, Katie Ní Chéilleachair, Liam MacGabhann & Emily NicGabhann)
Mikey McGlynn
Morgan O’Flaherty
Padraic McCarthy
Patrick Joseph O’Sullivan
Presentation Secondary School Tralee (Dream Spacers)
Rebecca O’Sullivan
Sadhbh O’Halloran
Shauna Harris
Sliabh Luachra Boxing Club (Youth Leadership Group)
.Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Celebrates Official Opening of New Campus by Minister for Education Norma Foley . Photo by Domnick Walsh
While students and staff moved into the school over a year ago, Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí’s new campus in Cloon More, Tralee was officially opened on Frida by Minister for Education Norma Foley.
The event marked the culmination of years of planning and development, and is a new chapter for Irish-medium education in Tralee.
Minister Foley expressed her pride and excitement in seeing the project come to fruition.
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“Tá fíor-áthas orm a bheith anseo chun an ócáid speisialta seo, do Ghaelcholáiste Chiarraí, a chomóradh. I am very happy to be here today to celebrate this special occasion for Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí. Enormous credit is due to the leadership in the school, the absolute determination of the staff, their Board of Management and the great leadership of Kerry ETB and the wider community to deliver this magnificent new Gaelcholáiste.”
Chairperson of Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB), Cllr. Norma Moriarty also spoke at the event, emphasising the significance of this development for the community. “The opening of Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí’s new campus is a milestone for education in Kerry. It represents our commitment to fostering the Irish language and providing students with an environment where they can thrive academically and culturally. We are proud to support this institution as it continues to grow and succeed.”
The ceremony was attended by students, staff, local dignitaries, and representatives from the wider community and Kerry ETB. Principal Ruairí Ó Cinnéide, welcomed Minister Foley and the gathered guests. “Today is a proud day for our school. This new campus represents not just a physical move, but a step forward in our mission to provide the best possible education through the medium of Irish. We are immensely grateful to Minister Foley for her ongoing support and for officially opening our new home.”
The new building is equipped with modern facilities, including advanced science, engineering, and computer labs, a spacious sports hall and gymnasium, an indoor and outdoor art room, textile room, spacious library and an outdoor area for students to enjoy. These facilities are designed to enhance the educational experience and provide students with the tools they need to excel in their studies and extracurricular activities.
In her address, Ann O’Dwyer Director of School Youth and Music highlighted the importance of the new campus in supporting the growing demand for Irish-medium education in the region. “Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí has a long-standing reputation for excellence, and this new campus will enable the school to continue its vital role in promoting the Irish language and culture. The investment in this facility is an investment in our future, ensuring that our young people have access to the best possible state of the art resources as they pursue their education.”
The event was also an opportunity to reflect on the history of Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí, which has been a pillar of the Irish language community in Tralee for over three decades. As the ceremony concluded, there was a sense of optimism and excitement about what the future holds for Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí. The new campus is not just a building, but a symbol of the school’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education through Irish and fostering a strong sense of community among its students and staff.
Mercy Secondary School Mounthawk is inviting applications for a Caretaker position.
The position is for 20 hours spread over three days, from Wednesday to Friday from 2:00pm to 9:00pm.
Some flexibility for hours can be required at other times. The proposed start date is 23rd October 2024
Experience working in a school environment is desirable. Qualifications in a trade is also desirable. Having own transport is necessary and Garda Vetting essential.
Rate of pay in line with DES structures. Outline Job specification and Application Form available to download from http://www.mercymounthawk.ie/employment-opportunities/ to be returned by e-mail to applications@mercymounthawk.ie by 5.00 p.m. on the closing date, Thursday 3rd October 2024.
HIS Excellency Maruyama Norio, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, visited the MTU Kerry Campus on Monday where a special discussion was hosted about the relations between Japan and Ireland.
Moderated by Professor Muiris Ó Laoire, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Health and Social Sciences at MTU, the discussion focused on the cultural, economic and educational ties between Ireland and Japan.
Guests included students and staff of MTU, the Mayor of Kerry, Chair of the MTU Governing Body, local schools, TDs and local government representatives as well as representatives from Japanese companies based in the region, including JRI American, Astellas and ALPS in addition to Dingle-based food company Dingle Sushi.
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In her welcome address, MTU President Professor Maggie Cusack commented on the impact of the Japanese companies in the region saying, “these companies provide a significant contribution to our region and local economies by providing consistent employment and career development. These and other Japanese companies based in Ireland are excellent examples of how Japanese companies can successfully operate, develop and scale operations in a regional location. The benefit of the company’s longevity in the region is significant”.
Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School student Jack Given addressed the Ambassador in Japanese and read from some of Patrick Lafcadio Hearn’s writings. Hearn was an Irish born writer, translator, and teacher who introduced the culture and literature of Japan to the West in the 1800s.
.Daisy-Bow Browne and Matthew Harper with Jacqui Hurley launching the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal.
TV sports presenter, mum and author, Jacqui Hurley is calling on families, schools, businesses and communities across Kerry to join in the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.
Since 2010, the Appeal has delivered 2.5 million shoeboxes to children in countries across Eastern Europe and Africa who are experiencing poverty.
These shoeboxes, filled with essential items as well as something fun, are lovingly created by people all across the country. They are often the only gift these children receive that year. Last year, shoeboxes from Kerry went to children in Romania.
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Jacqui Hurley said, “Let’s get together and bring hope and joy to as many children as possible. It’s so easy to get involved and each year this simple act of kindness, filling a shoebox with gifts to bring a smile to a child’s face, lets these children know that they are in the heart and minds of the people of Ireland.”
To get involved, simply think about who your gift is for – a boy or girl aged between 2-14, wrap a shoebox in colourful, bright wrapping paper and be sure to include at least one item from the 4 W’s:
· Something to write with. Perhaps include copybooks, pens or colouring pencils
· Something to wear. Maybe a hat, scarf and gloves, warm woolly socks or a t-shirt
· Something to wash with. A lovely bar of wrapped soap, a facecloth, some toothpaste and a toothbrush
· Something wow. Think of a toy or game that will bring a smile to a child’s face – maybe a puzzle or doll or a toy car or soft toy.
Pop a Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal label on the front, include €5, close the lid and secure with an elastic band. If finding a shoebox is tricky, you can buy flat pack boxes in Dealz stores nationwide or, build a box online at www.teamhope.ie/shoeboxappeal.
Shoeboxes should be dropped off at one of hundreds of drop off points nationwide, or at your local DEALZ store by the 10th November.
For teachers who would like to get their class involved, there are lots of class lesson plans and teaching resources available online. For businesses who would like to get involved, a site visit can be arranged to discuss how you can support Team Hope not just at Christmas but year round.
.Eibhlín Ní Bhric (seated fifth from left) with Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn staff on the occasion of her retirement on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
DECADES of teaching came to an end this week for a much-loved and respected member of the Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn staff.
Ballyferriter native Eibhlín Ní Bhric has been at the school for 22 years and staff and pupils bid a fond farewell to her as she embarks on her retirement.
Having graduated from St Pat’s teacher training college in Dublin, Eibhlín first taught in gaelscoileanna in Dublin from 1989, staying for 10 years, before moving to Skibbereen in 1999.
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A job came up in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn in 2002 and she came home to Kerry. Eibhlín said she has really enjoyed her time at the school where she taught infants, second and special education.
“I’ve absolutely loved it here. Great school and great colleagues — a lot of them re very good friends so we’ll stay in touch. The kids and the parents are great so it’s been a privilege to be here, but I’m ready to move on now while I feel young and energetic.”
Eibhlín still lives in her native Ballyferriter and said the only thing she won’t miss is the daily commute to Tralee.
Married to Dubliner Mick Davis, they have three children, Faolán, Oscar and Finn. Eibhlín has loads of plans for retirement involving her hobbies including cycling, hill-walking and travelling. We wish her well in her retirement.
Eibhlín Ní Bhric (centre) with Principal Liam Ó Chonchubhair and Deputy Principal Olive Ní Ghearain on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanEibhlín Ní Bhric (centre) cuts a cake to mark her retirement, with Principal Liam Ó Chonchubhair and Deputy Principal Olive Ní Ghearain on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.
THE MTU N-TUTORR programme has introduced fully accessible group study pods designed to support student collaboration.
These pods are supported through a partnership with MTU Libraries. This initiative emphasises the commitment to create welcoming, inclusive spaces that cater to the diverse needs of all learners, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
The group study pods have been carefully designed to prioritise comfort, accessibility, and student collaboration. These innovative spaces provide an ideal setting for group work, whether students are discussing class projects, preparing for exams, or simply sharing ideas.
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The pods are fully accessible to students with disabilities, offering easy entry and use, ensuring that all students can benefit from these new spaces.
Ergonomically designed seating and spacious layouts make the pods comfortable for all students, creating an environment that encourages focused study and collaboration.
Each pod is soundproof to minimise noise, allowing groups to work without interruptions and distractions.
Students can easily reserve the study pods through MTU Libraries’ booking system, ensuring flexible and convenient access to the spaces throughout the academic year.
This partnership between MTU N-TUTORR and MTU Libraries represents a shared dedication to supporting student success by providing spaces that accommodate diverse learning needs.
By offering fully accessible, collaborative study environments, MTU and N-TUTORR are helping to ensure that all students have the tools they need to thrive.
The N-TUTORR programme is designed to transform learning, teaching and assessment by focussing on transforming the student experience and developing the capabilities of all staff to address a sustainable pedagogical and learning environment with particular and critical focus on digital transformation, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
.Students of Presentation Secondary School Tralee learning about the Think Before You Flush campaign on Banna Beach on Monday.
THINK Before You Flush, a campaign operated by Clean Coasts in partnership with Uisce Éireann, joined Presentation Secondary School, Tralee students on Banna Beach on Monday to discuss the environmental issue of sewage-related litter.
Think Before You Flush aims to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of flushing sanitary products and other damaging items down the toilet and to promote responsible waste management practices.
The campaign has asked the students to help spread the Think Before You Flush message throughout their community.
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The students of Presentation Secondary School Tralee also learnt about the Think Before You Pour campaign that looks at the issue of pouring fats, oils, and greases (FOGs) from cooking down the kitchen sink.
Students and staff of Presentation Secondary School Tralee learnt about the Think Before You Flush campaign on Banna Beach on Monday.
Instead of flowing freely, FOGs cool and harden as they travel along the wastewater network. When FOGs combine with sewage related litter fatbergs can form.
Uisce Éireann clears thousands of blockages, including fatbergs, from the wastewater and sewage networks every year. The Think Before Pour campaign urges everyone to avoid washing FOGs down the kitchen drain and, instead, dispose of them in the bin once cool.
The Think Before You Flush campaign emphasises the importance of appropriate flushing behaviour and disposal of items including wipes and other sanitary products in the bin, even if they are labelled as flushable.
LEE Strand has officially launched the 2024 Lee Strand Homework Journals with an Ardfert pupil having the honour of designing the front cover.
Once again over 10,000 hardback homework journals will be distributed to national school pupils in Kerry.
Pupils were invited to design the front and back cover of the Lee Strand Homework Journal. Millie Lyons, Ardfert NS was announced as the Front Cover Winner 2024 and won €750 for her school and a trophy.
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Sara Prieto, Barraduff NS was announced as the Back Cover Winner 2024 and won €250 for her school and a trophy.
Speaking at the launch of the 2024 Lee Strand Homework Journal, Gearoid Linnane, CEO stated; “Lee Strand is delighted to offer complimentary homework journals to national school pupils over the past thirteen years. Once again, this year we invited pupils to get creative and design the front and back cover.”
“We were delighted with the response, with over 1,000 fantastic entries. We would like to congratulate Mille & Sara this year’s winners of our homework journal competition. Lee Strand takes great pride in supporting the local community and what better way to support our community than by supporting our local schools with over 10,000 complimentary homework journals.”
“The homework journals are one less expense for parents to incur when their children return to school. We would like to wish pupils, teachers and parents a safe return to school and wish everyone the very best in the academic year ahead.”
Schools can receive further information on the Lee Strand homework journals by contacting Lee Strand on 066 7121084.
.Ciara O’Sullivan with Course Instructor at Kerry College Tara O’Halloran Cronin.
A CASTLEISLAND woman is one of 18 young people travelling to Lyon, France this week to compete as Team Ireland at the 2024 World Skills event.
The WorldSkills competition will see over 1,500 competitors from more than 71 countries and regions around the world demonstrate their skills across 62 skills areas.
Ciara O’Sullivan, who is part of Team Ireland will be competing in Beauty Therapy after beating off tough competition at the national skills competition to make the World Skills event.
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Ciara is from Castleisland and attended Kerry College. She will be pursuing a degree in Munster Technological University (MTU) after the competition in Lyon.
Commenting on her journey to represent Ireland at World Skills Lyon, Ciara said: “I’m honoured to be part of Team Ireland, representing my country, doing my passion. Being part of this team is inspiring and fulfilling to say the least. Upskilling, travelling and inspiring younger generations drive us on. Beauty therapy as a skill has changed my life, and I am delighted that our teams’ various skills represent that skills really do change lives.”
Team Ireland will compete in areas including Industrial Mechanics, Beauty Therapy, Carpentry, Food and Hospitality, Cybersecurity and Construction.
Ireland’s team was announced by Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD at Government Buildings, Dublin.
THE village of Ballyduff in North Kerry is gearing up for a special weekend as it hosts a fundraiser for local motorcycle racer, Anthony O’Carroll.
From September 13 to 15, the community will come together for a celebration of racing and camaraderie, while raising crucial funds to support Anthony — who was seriously injured in a motorbike accident on the Isle of Man in July — on his road to recovery.
The event boasts appearances from some of Ireland’s most accomplished motorcycle racers. Road racing legend Miko Sweeney will be in attendance alongside former Mondello Masters Superbike Champion Derek Shiels.
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Adding to the star power are current Masters Superbike leader Kevin Keyes and the recently crowned Masters Super Twin champion, Oisin Maher.
Motorcycle racing commentator Jim Halligan will be hosting a Questions and Answers forum with these racing stars on Saturday from 6 pm at the event’s marquee.
Local racers Andrew Murphy and Stephen Walsh will share their thrilling Manx Grand Prix experiences, while Tralee’s Emmet O’Grady, Keyes’ rival in the Superbike and Supersport classes, will also be joining the festivities.
Fuelling the spirit of the weekend will be a stunning display of over 30 racing bikes at the Community Hall.
Among the highlights will be a prized possession – a bike once owned by the late road racing legend, Richard Britton.
The showcase extends beyond road and circuit racing, with Abbeyfeale’s Gavin Moloney exhibiting his Munster championship-winning Moto-X bikes.
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The fundraiser goes beyond the world of racing, welcoming the entire community. A monster raffle overflowing with exciting prizes like rally car test drives, Mondello Park track days, hotel getaways, and gym memberships are up for grabs.
Kerry Motor Club, Ballyduff Vintage Club, No Hopers Motorcycle Club, and Kerry Motorcycle Racers have joined forces to make this fundraiser a success.
The weekend will be full of activities to engage all ages and interests. A motorcycle exhibition, classic car and rally car displays, live music, and a host of entertainment options are just a taste of what’s on offer.
Alongside fun activities, a classic car run, a motorcycle ride-out, a Honda 50 run, barbecues, a seven-a-side soccer tournament, and a 5km walk will provide opportunities for friendly competition and community spirit.
Every contribution, big or small, can make a real difference in Anthony’s recovery. Donations can be made through the GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-anthony-his-parents-on-his-road-to-recovery
Provisional Timetable For Anthony O’Carroll Fundraiser Weekend
Friday – September 13th
• 9:00 pm DJ Big Jim (Your Man’s Bar)
Saturday – September 14th
• TBC Seven-a-side soccer tournament (Ratoo Rovers)
• 12:00 PM: Bikes Meet Up (Your Man’s Bar)
• 1:00 PM: Motorcycle Racing Exhibition (Community Hall)
• 2:00 PM: Ride Out departure
• 2:00 PM: Static Classic Car & Rally Car Show (The Square/ Church Carpark)
• 2:00 PM: Drift Car Static Show (Purcell’s Bar)
• 3:30 PM: Slow Bike Race (The Square/ Church Carpark)
• 6:00 PM Forum With Racers (The Marquee Your Man’s Bar)
• 9:00 PM Bands & DJ (Your Man’s Bar)
Sunday – September 15th
• TBC Seven-a-side soccer tournament (Ratoo Rovers)
• 11:00 AM: 5km Walk Departs From Ross’s Shop
• 9:00 AM: Registration for car run opens (Sports field)
• 11:00 AM: Car Run Departs (Sports field)
• 12:30 PM: Car run returns and static show opens (The Square Carpark)
• 1:00 PM: Motorcycle Racing Exhibition (Community Hall)
• 1:00 PM Honda 50 Run
• 1:00 PM Honda 50 Run
• 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Live Music & DJ Ray Stack on-stage (The Square Carpark)
• 2:00 PM Drivers forum with youth rally drivers (The Marquee Your Man’s Bar)
• 4:00 PM – 9.00 PM: Bands & DJ (Your Man’s Bar)
Raffle prizes
– test session in a 2.5 Escort and Starlet Rally Car
-BMW driving experience x2- two separate prizes
-360 Motorsport Half-Day Drifting Experience
– Elco Fire stove for Nedar
-Tickets for All Ireland Drifting Final
-€100 fuel voucher from Lynch’s Oil
-1 jacket and 2 jumpers from Kerry Motor Works
-€1000 voucher for Banna Beach Leisure Centre
-Selection of photos from Irish Rally and Isle of Man TT
-€50 voucher Ballingarry Hotel
– Sthil leaf blower from JPD Listowel
-Entrance fee for Kerry Winter Stages Rally 2024 worth €700
-€100 voucher for Ballingarry Hotel
-€100 voucher for Atlantic Oils
-€25 voucher for Forge Café
-€25 voucher for Village Pantry Ardfert
-Voucher for David Powers
-€100 voucher for Amber Listowel
-One-month free gym membership in Listowel including a free private session with Trevor Horan
-Voucher for Tyre Stop Tralee
-Voucher for Premium Auto Parts Tralee
-Voucher for Agri Auto Listowel
-Voucher for Top Part Tralee
-Nine vouchers for a 10km helicopter flight
-€50 voucher for Sean Hussey Tralee
-€50 voucher for Ryle’s Menswear Tralee
-€50 voucher for Ceilsus Menswear Tralee
-Voucher for Daily Grind Tralee
-€50 oil voucher from Mac Oil
.A Holy Family junior infants pupil with the Brendan Martin Cup on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT’S been just over a month since the Kerry Ladies won the All-Ireland final, but the excitement was still fresh in the minds of Tralee schoolchildren today.
Members of the team, Aisling O’Connell, Aoife Dillane and Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh, along with managers Darragh Long and Declan Quill paid a visit to a number of schools and received a raucous welcome wherever they went.
They began at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn where Declan Quill teaches and the hall was packed with green and gold-clad children greeting the visitors.
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A visit to Listellick NS saw similar exhilaration in the sports hall with one pupil particularly excited. Sixth class pupil Lauren Hayes won a competition to design Kerry LGFA’s 50th anniversary jersey she said it was an amazing feeling seeing people from all over wearing the jersey.
Kerry players Aishling O’Connell, Aoife Dillane and Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh with pupil Lauren Hayes who designed the Kerry LGFA 50th anniversary jersey at Listellick NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
The lads and ladies received a guard of honour arriving at CBS Primary School and faced a serious of question from pupils ranging from who their heroes were growing up to the benefits of playing sports.
The Holy Family pupils’ screaming reached Beatlemania levels in the school hall and teacher Ms Breathnach from Galway managed to get her hands on the Brendan Martin Cup even if her fellow countywomen couldn’t.
Galway woman Ms Breathnach gets her hands on the Brendan Martin Cup at Holy Family NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
The town’s biggest primary school, Scoil Eoin, equalled all the others with their enthusiasm while Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí welcomed back past pupils Darragh Long, Aisling O’Connell and Aoife Dillane who joined current pupil Amy Ní Curtáin in being feted.
In all the schools, the players and management stressed the importance of perseverance, hard work and the benefits of sport…while also announcing the primary kids had homework off on Monday and Tuesday. TGI Friday indeed! Scroll down for photos…
A captive audience at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kerry players Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh, Aishling O’Connell and Aoife Dillane with Niamh O’Sullivan, Donna Forrest and Maeve Kelliher at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn Montessori school on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanKerry players Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh, Aishling O’Connell and Aoife Dillane with youngsters at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn Montessori school on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanGaelscoil Mhic Easmainn at the school on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Colm Ó hAiniféin, Aoife Dillon and Declan Quill at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanDeclan Quill with son Mattie and Adam at Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanGaelscoil Mhic Easmainn at the school on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn at the school on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanGaelscoil Mhic Easmainn pupils with members of the Kerry Ladies Football team and management on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanGaelscoil Mhic Easmainn pupils with the Brendan Martin Cup on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Young Kerry fans at Listellick NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanExcited Listellick NS pupils on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanDarragh Long signs jerseys at Listellick NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Aishling O’Connell looks at the match programme with a Listellick pupil on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanListellick NS pupils excited to welcome the visitors. Photo by Dermot CreanLouise Ní Mhuircheartaigh signs jerseys for pupils at Listellick NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kerry players Aishling O’Connell, Aoife Dillane and Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh with managers Declan Quill and Darragh Long with Listellick pupils on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanYoung Kerry fans greet the Kerry ladies at Listellick NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanChildren in the Montessori school at CBS Primary with Kerry ladies team members and management. Photo by Dermot Crean.CBS pupils excited to welcome the visitors. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS Primary School pupils gave a huge welcome to the Kerry ladies team members and management on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS Primary School pupils gave a huge welcome to the Kerry ladies team members and management on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanA guard of honour from young pupils at CBS on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS Primary School pupils gave a huge welcome to the Kerry ladies team members and management on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanBack to the old school…Declan Quill at Holy Family on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanDeclan Quill with his nephews on visit to Holy Family NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanHoly Family pupils with members of the Kerry Ladies Football team and management on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanLadies men at Holy Family on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanThe junior infants welcome the visitors to Holy Family. Photo by Dermot CreanA Holy Family junior infants pupil with the Brendan Martin Cup. Photo by Dermot CreanA Holy Family junior infants pupil with the Brendan Martin Cup on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanThe junior infants welcome the visitors to Holy Family. Photo by Dermot CreanHoly Family NS secretary Maureen Murphy welcome past pupil Declan Quill back with the Brendan Martin Cup. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Junior infants having fun as they started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE new junior infants are well settled in now around Tralee schools after the excitement of last week.
We visited Spa NS last Friday in the brilliant sunshine to find the new arrivals getting to know each other in Ms Ahern’s classroom, while Ms O’Reilly’s class were out having fun climbing in the activity area.
They were already comfortable with the new surroundings and making new friends for life. Scroll down for photos…
Junior infants having fun as they started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants having fun as they started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants, with teacher Ms Ahern, who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who started their schooldays at Spa NS last week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants at the Spa NS enjoying their first day of School with teacher Ms Ahern and Principal Peter Linehan..Junior infants at The Spa NS enjoying their first day of school with teacher Ciara O’Reilly, Sharon O’Sullivan SNA and Principal Peter Linehan..
LEE Strand was delighted to welcome principals, teachers, parents and pupils representing 27 primary schools in Kerry to collect a total of €13,575.
The Lee Strand 50% School Milk Cash Back Programme was launched in September 2023 and was a fantastic success. On average participating schools received €500, with the top earning school receiving €1,736.50.
Gearoid Linnane, CEO Lee Strand stated; “It is our goal in Lee Strand to see as many pupils as possible in Kerry, drinking fresh nutritious milk from local farms during the school day. The school milk programme is subsidised by the EU and the National Dairy Council provide complimentary fridges to all participating schools.”
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“The feedback from the campaign has been very positive from the participating schools. We are delighted to present €13,575 cash to 27 schools in Kerry to spend as they wish during the school year. Registrations are now open for this year’s programme to over 130 primary schools in Kerry, contact Lee Strand on 066 7121084 for more details.”
The twenty-seven schools in the 2023/2024 Lee Strand 50% School Milk Cash Back Programme are:Ardfert NS; Ballincrossig NS; Ballyfinane NS; Blennerville NS; Scoil Naomh Chárthaigh; Brosna NS; Carrickerry NS; Clogher NS; Cullina NS; Faha NS; Fybough NS; Gaelscoil Aoghain; Gaelscoil Faithleann; Glenbeigh NS; Gneeveguilla NS; Holy Family NS; Kilcummin NS; Kiltallagh NS; Knockaderry NS; Knocknagoshel NS; Lisselton NS; Murhur NS; O’Brennan NS; Scoil Bhreanainn; Scoil Chriost Ri; St Brendan’s NS & St. Joseph NS.
.Junior infants with teacher Carol O’Sullivan who began their schooldays this week at St John’s Parochial School. Photo by Dermot Crean
CHILDREN from schools around Tralee headed back to the books this week and for the little ones, it was a particularly big step.
Of course it all went smoothly and at Blennerville NS, teacher Edel O’Sullivan made her junior infants feel welcome the moment they arrived.
At Presentation Primary, parents accompanied their children to the school hall on Friday to ease them into the process while at St John’s Ashe Street, four new pupils started their journey. Scroll down for photos…
Teacher Margaret Daly with her junior infants class and Principal John Hickey at Presentation Primary School on Friday for their first day at school. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Gillian Conway with her junior infants class and Principal John Hickey at Presentation Primary School on Friday for their first day at school. Photo by Dermot Crean.Teacher Edel O’Sullivan with her junior infants class and Principal Robbie O’Connell at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who began their schooldays at St Brendan’s NS Blennerville during the week. Photo by Dermot Crean.
.Junior infants on their first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THIS week marked the beginning of a special journey for hundreds of youngsters in the Tralee area with the first day of school for junior infants.
CBS Primary School welcomed two classes and their teachers, Ms Quirke and Ms Donoghue had them settled in in no time, aided by the school therapy dog, Zorro, who proved a big hit.
Over in Caherleaheen it was a similar scene as the juniors got used to their surroundings in Ms O’Donnell’s class, feeling at ease immediately. Scroll down for photos…
A junior infant who started school at Caherleaheen NS this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who started school at Caherleaheen NS this week. Photo by Dermot CreanA junior infant on her first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.A junior infant on his first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanA junior infant takes Zorro for a walk around the classroom on her first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.A junior infant who started school at Caherleaheen NS this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants who started school at Caherleaheen NS this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants who started school at Caherleaheen NS this week. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Adrienne O’Donnell (right) with her junior infants class who started their schooldays at Caherleaheen NS this week. Also included is SNA Anne Moore and Principal Mary Connolly. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at CBS Primary on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Mrs Quirke with her junior infants class who began their schooldays at CBS Primary School on Thursday. Also included is SET Eimear Collins. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Ms Donoghue (back right) with her junior infants class who began their schooldays at CBS Primary School on Thursday. Also included is Special Education Teacher Sandra Casey. Photo by Dermot Crean
.A junior infant on her first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
PARENTS and children arrived in the brilliant sunshine at Scoil Eoin in Balloonagh on Friday morning for their first day at school.
While the pupils had been brought in for a small period over the past two days, it was a case of lunches packed and uniforms on this morning for a full morning of activities.
They’ll have plenty of friends over the years as the largest primary school in Tralee has three classes of juniors, with teachers Ms Donovan, Ms Griffin and Ms Reidy making sure they all settled in quickly. Scroll down for photos…
Junior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Donovan’s junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Margaret Moore. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.A junior infants on her first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Griffin (back right) with her junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Margaret Moore. Also included is Grace Hobbert O’Halloran SNA. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Reidy’s junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Catherine Donohue. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Sean Murphy gets a hug from his mom Maura — a teacher at Moyderwell Primary — as he started his schooldays this week. Photo by Dermot Crean
MOYDERWELL Mercy Primary School is famed for its family atmosphere and this was evident once again this week for first day of the new school year.
While all the pupils returned on Wednesday, special attention must be given to the junior infants who started their schooldays. Ms Ryan and Ms O’Riordan welcomed the new pupils and made them feel at ease from the get-go.
It was a special day for two junior infants who have their moms teaching at the school — Ciara O’Sullivan and her daughter Hannah and Maura Murphy and son Seán. They’ll feel right at home over the coming years! Scroll down for photos…
Hannah Hickey with her mom Ciara — a teacher at Moyderwell Primary — settling into her schooldays. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants starting their schooldays at Moyderwell Primary this week. Photo by Dermot CreanMs O’Riordan (back, second from left) with her junior infants class at Moyderwell Primary School. Also included is Shannon Purcell SNA, Oonagh O’Rahilly and Principal Pat Neenan. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Ryan (back, third from left) with her junior infants class at Moyderwell Primary School. Also included is SEN teacher Brenda Coughlan, teacher Ciara O’Sullivan, Principal Pat Neenan and Trisha O’Malley. Photo by Dermot Crean
.‘It’s okay, I’m having a great time’…a junior infant takes a call on her first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
NO tears but plenty of smiles on Wednesday, as junior infants headed up the hill to start their schooldays at Listellick NS.
A typically warm welcome was extended by staff at the school to the youngsters arriving with parents who were more nervous than the little scholars.
It wasn’t long before teacher Ashley Reynolds and Marie Dineen had them settled in and having fun. Scroll down for photos…
Junior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Ashley Reynolds and assistant teacher Marie Dineen with junior infants on their first day at school at Listellick NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.
.Excited smiles all around form some of the pupils as they celebrate the very first day of the school opening as a Lyreacrompane Community National School!
LYREACROMPANE Community National School (Lyreacrompane CNS) welcomed pupils this week for the first time under the patronage of Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB).
This is the fourth community national school to open its doors in the county under the patronage of Kerry ETB.
This first day marked the culmination of months of preparation following the school’s transition from its previous Catholic ethos to a multidenominational framework.
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Principal Eilish Lyons explained; “Today is a significant milestone for our school. We are proud to have grown from 18 to 28 pupils this new school year, a testament to the community’s trust in our new direction. This growth is more than just numbers, it’s about offering choice in education and children and parents.”
The introduction of a school bus service now connects students from surrounding areas to Lyreacrompane.
“For the first time, we have a bus that brings our students to school,” Eilish noted. “This not only eases the burden on parents but also creates a sense of unity among the children who travel together each day.”
The transition to a community national school, which makes Lyreacrompane CNS the only school offering this choice in North Kerry, has been met with enthusiasm.
Ann O’Dwyer, Director of Schools, Youth, and Music at Kerry ETB, expressed her satisfaction with the progress: “The opening day of Lyreacrompane Community National School under our patronage is a momentous occasion. We are thrilled to see the positive impact this change is already having. The increase in student numbers shows that families are eager to embrace this new model of education, which emphasises inclusivity, critical thinking, and community engagement.”
The school’s commitment to inclusivity is further exemplified by the introduction of the Goodness Me, Goodness You! programme, a unique feature of community national schools designed to support the holistic development of each child.
“We’re excited about offering this new programme that will encourage our students to think more deeply and critically,” said Eilish Lyons. “This approach will not only enhance their academic skills but also prepare them to be thoughtful and engaged members of society.”
As the first day drew to a close, there was a shared sense of optimism about the future. “This is just the beginning,” Eilish Lyons reflected. “We’re looking forward to building on this foundation, with the support of Kerry ETB, to continue offering a first-class education in a welcoming, inclusive environment.”
.Junior Infants on their first day at school at Tralee Educate Together with teacher Gail Kelly, Anne Condon and Principal Mary Brosnan. Photo by Dermot Crean
THIS week sees hundreds of boys and girls around the Tralee area begin their schooldays and a new journey in life.
On went the uniforms, lunches were packed and parents said their goodbyes as the junior infants settled into their classes to begin their adventure.
This was the case in Holy Family NS where around 40 pupils started school in Ms Kelly’s and Ms Murphy’s classes. Meanwhile 11 pupils started school at Tralee Educate Together in Ms Kelly’s junior infants class. Scroll down for photos…
Junior infants on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Teacher Treasa Murphy with one of her junior infants on the first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Yelai Bel SNA with junior infants teacher Treasa Murphy and pupils on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanCaitriona Chester SNA with junior infants teacher Ciara Kelly and pupils on their first day of school at Holy Family NS on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.
.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
SCHOOL’S back and for one cohort of young boys and girls it’s the start of something new and special in their lives.
The refreshed staff of Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn greeted excited junior infants and their nervous parents this morning for the youngsters’ first day at school.
Of course everything went off smoothly in Ms Ní Dhonghaile’s and Ms Uí Ghearáín’s classes and they had a great time making new friends to last (in many cases) a lifetime. Scroll down for photos…
Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.A junior infants on his first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Laura Ní Dhonghaile with Principal Liam Ó Conchubhair and junior infant pupils on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot CreanTeacher Olive Ní Ghearáin with Principal Liam Ó Conchubhair and junior infant pupils on their first day at school in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Guidance Counsellor Billy Ryle says Kerry students celebrated getting the courses they wanted in CAO Round One today….
The excellent results achieved last week by Kerry’s 1,713 traditional Leaving Cert candidates saw them sweep the board in CAO Round One of college offers, which were released at 2pm on Wednesday, 28th August.
After a few tense days of expectant waiting, there was joy unconfined when a large majority of Kerry’s CAO applicants received a college offer.
On a pro rata population basis, Kerry’s CAO applicants will be close to the top of the class in securing college places.
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That scenario, of course, depends on students’ ability to finance their education and to secure accommodation against a further increase of 3% to 5% in student expenses.
According to price-comparison site Switcher.ie, the average annual cost of going to college is €15,632, about €536 more than last year.
Dublin, Cork, Maynooth and Tralee had the biggest rise in average college expenses this year. Any student who is forced to defer or refuse a higher education course due to lack of finance and/or accommodation will be absolutely devastated.
A final CAO application figure of 83,543 – 2,362 from Kerry – meant keen competition across many courses. A random selection for entry to some hotly-contested courses left some applicants with the maximum 625 points without their top choice.
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However, the generous supply of college places that are on offer this year has helped to stabilise the points. At Level 8, points have fallen for about 50% of courses, points have slightly increase for about 40% while the remainder remain relatively unchanged.
The new tertiary degree route through Colleges of Further Education is also helping to ease the pressure on CAO points.
While some CAO courses have seen points increase, the generous offer of college places has benefitted the applicants. It’s very evident that the provision of more college places around the country will help to reduce points requirements and to ease the pressure on young people.
While the majority of the 47,326 applicants to the CAO from the 2024 Leaving Cert class, as well as 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 Leaving Cert classes, will have the points to meet the course requirements, it will leave many candidates, who are presenting Leaving Cert results from 2019 or earlier, struggling to secure a college place.
Many of these applicants from the pre-Covid era had little or no chance of competing with this year’s inflated grades.
Minister Norma Foley has committed to reducing this year’s average post-marking adjustment of 7.5% to about 5.5% in 2025 in a gradual return to standard marking.
Grades deflation must be the priority in the immediate future so that colleges places can be allocated on actual exam performance rather than an upward post-marking adjustment.
The 2024 statistics prove that the applicants are very efficient in their engagement with the CAO. 56,571 CAO applicants received at least one of the 83,369 courses on offer on Wednesday afternoon.
The offers consisted of 51,934 at Level 8 and 31,435 at Level7/6. Offers are issued independently in respect of the two lists (Level 8 and Level 7/6), so that some applicants received two offers, one from each list.
The collective good news is that of the 51,934 applicants who were offered a Level 8 course, 29,173 (56%), received their first preference and a very impressive 43,280 (83%) received one of their top three preferences.
Of the 31,435 applicants who were offered a Level 7/6 course, 28,781 (92%) received their first preference and a whopping 31,087 (99%) received one of their top three preferences.
The overriding conclusion from the points’ trends is that CAO applicants are totally focussed on the jobs market.
They applied in large numbers for courses with strong employment growth. UCC’s flagship Biological and Chemical Sciences is offered at 533 points, while its Engineering degree has dropped slightly to 509 points.
Physiotherapy at the University of Limerick came in at 590* points while its new Occupational Therapy degree is offered at 568 points. Primary Teaching at Mary Immaculate College Limerick is down from 497 points to 488 and MTU Tralee’s excellent General Nursing Degree dropped from 371points to 352.
Health Science courses remain very popular putting them beyond the points’ totals of most CAO applicants. Dentistry at UCC, for example, requires a staggering 618 points and Pharmacy is offered at 613*. All points requirements are available on the CAO website, www.cao.ie.
School leavers continue to rush to college in unprecedented numbers. The steady flow also of mature and non-traditional applications is a very healthy development as everybody deserves a second chance.
A quota of places was reserved by CAO for the 7,365 mature applicants and the 12,055 applicants from the Post Leaving Cert (PLC) sector. Congratulations to all applicants who received a CAO college offer.
CHECKLIST
• 60,839 Leaving Cert candidates in total – 56,791 LC Established & 4,048 LC Applied
• 1,840 Leaving Cert candidates in Kerry – 1,713 LC Established & 127 LC Applied
• 83,543 CAO applications in 2024; down slightly down from 84,228 in 2023
• 2,362 CAO applicants from Kerry; a 1.3% decrease on the 2023 figure of 2,394
• Kerry’s CAO applicants did extremely well in Wednesday’s Round One offers
• An applicant was offered the highest course preference to which s/he was entitled
• When an applicant was offered a course preference, s/he was excluded from any course preference LOWER than the one offered.
• In the second or subsequent rounds of offers, an applicant won’t be considered for a preference LOWER than that already offered.
• An applicant who was offered a preference, which is not her/his first preference, may subsequently be offered a HIGHER preference
• It’s not necessary to accept an offer in order to be considered for a HIGHER preference
• An applicant who has accepted an offer is not obliged to accept any subsequent offer
• CAO Round One offers available from 2pm on Wednesday, 28th August
• CAO available place facility opens at noon on Thursday, 29th August
• Accept CAO Round One offer by 3pm, on Tuesday, 3rd September
• Leaving Cert appeals released at 11am on Friday, 27th September
• Many Post-Leaving Cert (PLC) courses still have vacancies
• Tertiary Degree course applications accepted to late September
• Apply now to State Agencies for training courses
• Many schools cater for repeat Leaving Cert students
• Double check all important dates on official correspondence
• The confidential help line free phone number is 1800 265 165
• Congratulations to all applicants who received a CAO college offer
Billy Ryle is a Career Guidance Counsellor and Educational Commentator
.Kyle Clifford, James Riordan and Mark Gazi at CBS The Green on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
THERE were mostly happy faces at the schools around Tralee this morning as the Leaving Cert results were revealed.
While students could access them online from 10am, some still chose to come into the schools to meet up with friends and share their good news. They were greeted by the Principals and some of the teaching staff who congratulated them on their achievements.
Over 1,800 students received their Leaving Certificate results across the county. Minister for Education Norma Foley wished all the students receiving results the best for the future.
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“I would like to congratulate each and every one of you on this milestone, which brings reward and recognition for all your work and dedication over the past number of years,” she said.
“This is an exciting moment in your life, as you look ahead to the many great and varied opportunities that lie ahead. Whether your next step will take you into the world of further or higher education, an apprenticeship, work, or other possibilities, I would like to wish you every success and happiness for all to come.” Scroll down for photos…
Student Saoirse Kerins with dad John Kerins and mom Helen Kerins at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanHolly Leane, Lucy O’Donnell and Grace Kirby at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Lily Parker, Laura Reilly, Katie Nix and Labhraidh Costello at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanThomas Dereki, Raymond Lowe and Cody O’Shea at CBS The Green on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Odhran Tobin and Tiernan O’Carroll at CBS The Green on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanJosh Elvins, Billy Breathnach and Brian Ó Domhnaill at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Principal Ruáirí Ó Cinnéide with students Luke Ó Chathasaigh and Dáithí Ó Loinsigh at Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStephen O’Shea, with parents Alan and Karin, looking at his results at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.Siobhan Clifford (centre) with Kerry Falvey and Mary Clifford at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanJamie Horgan, Rory Cantillon and Brendan Dwyer at CBS The Green on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean.John Feeley, Noah Edwards Jack McCarthy, Jakub Mikolajczuk and Stephen O’Shea at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanSarah Maunsell and Kate McGarrell at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot CreanBiye Guo Róisín Rahilly, Rachel Feeley and Mohamed Abdalla, all of whom received over 600 points, at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday, morning. Photo by Dermot CreanStephen Barrett and Ronan Mulrooney at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kerry’s Junior Cycle candidates should celebrate an outstanding achievement as exam results again issued early says Billy Ryle…
