Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) has made significant announcements regarding key appointments in its educational institutions, signalling a new era of growth and development in the region’s further education and training (FET) sector.
Portlaoise Institute, a well-established provider of adult and further education, is excited to announce the appointment of Mr Keith McClearn as its new principal. This represents a significant milestone as Portlaoise Institute will now have its own dedicated principal, having previously been under the umbrella of Portlaoise College.
Hailing from Galway, Mr McClearn brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. His background includes serving as the Deputy Principal of both Portlaoise College and Portlaoise Institute. He holds qualifications from esteemed institutions such as NUI Galway, Sheffield Hallam University, and Trinity College, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Dublin City University.
Exciting plans
In expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Keith McClearn stated, “It is truly an honour to be appointed Principal of Portlaoise Institute. I have every confidence that, with the support of our team of progressive and enthusiastic teaching and support staff, Portlaoise Institute will be a hub of excellence and a leader in the provision of further education and training in the region.”
“I am looking forward to taking up the position and have exciting plans for Portlaoise Institute.”
The institute currently offers full-time Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) to over 260 learners, and a wide range of evening provision. In 2023, it will expand its programme offerings to include Apprenticeships, Traineeships, and various part-time options.
This expansion aligns with the Institute’s commitment to delivering flexible and responsive further education and training courses to meet the needs of its diverse student body. For more information on Portlaoise Institute’s provision for 2023 visit http://www.portlaoiseinstitute.ie
Anne Marie Keane, FET Manager with LOETB, expressed her delight at Mr. McClearn’s appointment, highlighting his learner-centred approach and extensive experience as assets that will drive Portlaoise Institute’s growth.
Tony Dalton, LOETB Director of FET, echoed this sentiment and the importance of this appointment in establishing Portlaoise Institute as a key FET provider in the region.
In another exciting development within LOETB, Ms Irene Togher has been appointed as the Principal and Jonathan O’Brien as the Deputy Principal of the Tullamore Further Education and Training Centre (FETC).
Irene Togher, who previously worked at Dunboyne College of Further Education for twelve years, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Her qualifications include an English and Legal Studies BA, a Law Degree, and a MA in Media Studies.
Dynamic and dedicated team
In expressing her delight at her appointment Irene said, ‘I look forward to supporting the dynamic and dedicated team, staff and students of Tullamore FETC. Ms. Togher envisions a bright future for the centre, marked by high-quality education and diverse progression opportunities.
Irene is joined at senior management level by Jonathan O’Brien, the newly appointed Deputy Principal. Jonathan has been a member of the teaching team at Tullamore FETC for the past eight years. He holds qualifications in Business Computing and recently completed a MA in Teaching and Learning. Jonathan is driven by a passion for lifelong learning and aims to contribute to the centre’s mission of providing educational opportunities not only to the local community but also to wider audiences.
Tony Dalton, Director of Further Education and Training, remarked that: “these appointments represent a significant step forward for Tullamore FETC”.
“I am confident that under Irene’s leadership, Tullamore FETC will flourish as a centre of excellence in education and training. Jonathan O’Brien’s appointment as Deputy Principal is equally exciting. Jonathan has a longstanding commitment to Tullamore FETC and I have no doubt that he will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Tullamore FETC.”
“Their combined leadership will undoubtedly bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and growth to Tullamore FETC. I have every confidence that, together with our committed staff, they will lead Tullamore FETC as a FET College of the Future.”
Post Leaving Certificate Courses
Tullamore FET Centre has experienced substantial growth, offering 17 full-time Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) programmes this academic year, alongside a wide range of part-time courses during both day and evening hours.
The centre’s commitment to accessibility and excellence in education is evident, with up-to-date course information available on their website http://www.tullamorefetc.ie.
These appointments within LOETB signal a commitment to excellence and a dedication to providing high-quality educational opportunities to students in the region, setting the stage for continued growth and success in the field of further education and training.
