Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board has announced the founding of a new Further Education and Training college: Leitrim College of Further Education and Training. Building upon the productive and mutually cooperative working relationship of Drumshanbo Vocational School, Drumshanbo FET Centre/Leitrim Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme Leitrim, and Lough Allen College this new college will bring together all entities in a major evolution of further education and training for the region.
Speaking on the announcement Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB Chief Executive Mr Tom Grady said:
The new college will be a vibrant, diverse and inclusive college hosting a wide range of Further Education and Training opportunities from Level 1 to Level 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications. This is an exciting and positive development for Leitrim and the wider region and we hope to develop and expand our services and offerings in Leitrim through the new college.
The innovative FET programmes and courses offered by Leitrim College of Further Education and Training will enable students and staff to meet the demands of the modern social and economic environment. The college will offer exceptional educational opportunities for school leavers, lifelong
learners, returning learners, employers, employees, and the wider community. It will serve as a beacon of learning for the region and afford learners the opportunity for vocational, academic, employment and social progression. Leitrim College of Further Education and Training will:
- be a leading centre for learning in Leitrim and the West/North West of Ireland.
- be a technology-enhanced centre of excellence.
- have a robust European dimension with the Erasmus+ programme, and
- offer a range of social and sporting activities for learners.
The development will be aligned with the goals of the SOLAS Future FET: Transforming Learning, National FET Strategy 2020-2024. The college will focus on Building Skills, Fostering Inclusion and Creating Pathways.
Mr Peter Egan, Director of Further Education and Training Mayo Sligo and Leitrim ETB, commented,
“This is a genuine evolution in educational provision in Leitrim. It is an exciting and encouraging development for the region. We are confident that the establishment of this new college will not only enrich Leitrim’s educational landscape but also empower learners with the vital knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic and fiercely competitive economic and social environment. Over the coming months, Mayo Sligo and Leitrim ETB will continuously engage and work with staff, learners and stakeholders to gather their views and agree on the best way to establish and structure the new college. The new college with showcase the expertise of our staff and provide a future-proofed, consistent, integrated and easily accessible approach to further education and training.
Mayo, Sligo Leitrim ETB has appointed James Hardiman as Principal. Sean Bailey will lead the provision of full-time courses in Drumshanbo.
