The Feargal Quinn Award was presented to Jae in recognition of her outstanding achievement in last year’s Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA), where she received a 100% Distinction.
The Feargal Quinn Award is named after Feargal Quinn, who was the first chairperson of the steering committee for the Leaving Certificate Applied in the late 1990s.
‘that belief, instilled in me by the staff, is something I will carry with me forever’
‘I was delighted to receive the Feargal Quinn Award and it was great to celebrate in Athlone with my family, friends and teachers from Limerick Youth Service (LYS),’ said Jae.
Jae Barron with her Feargal Quinn Award
In a journey that may strike a chord with other young people, Jae left secondary school during the Senior Cycle and was unsure of her next step.
‘I took time to research where I could continue my education and came across Limerick Youth Service,’ said Jae adding ‘I saw that they offered the Leaving Certificate Applied programme (at their Community Training Centre) which immediately caught my interest as it felt like a clear step toward progressing to college.’
Jae felt the structure of the Leaving Certificate Applied suited her saying ‘had a manageable workload that allows students to grow steadily, while also providing unique opportunities over the two years that may not be available elsewhere.’
‘I would highly recommend the Leaving Certificate Applied and LYS to anyone looking to continue their education after experiencing difficulties in a traditional secondary school setting or to someone who had to leave due to circumstances beyond their control, said Jae.
Reflecting fondly on her time with LYS, Jae said ‘one of the most important things I learned during my time at LYS is that nothing can stop me from achieving my goals. That belief, instilled in me by the staff, is something I will carry with me forever.’
Jae (second from left) with her LCA classmates
Since completing my LCA at LYS Community Training Centre, Jae is studying Laboratory Techniques (Applied Science), at the Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board’s Mulgrave St Campus. Once completed, Jae will progress to the University of Limerick to study either Mechanical Engineering or Biological and Chemical Sciences.
LYS would like to congratulate Jae on her thoroughly deserved Feargal Quinn Award and wish her the very best of luck in her future career.
The Leaving Cert Applied is a two-year course that meets the needs of students who prefer the practical and continuous assessment approach in contrast to that of the ‘mainstream’ Leaving Cert.
It is continually assessed with a strong emphasis on recognising the talents of all students, giving them opportunities through the subjects and modules to develop personal responsibility and self-esteem.
The LCA is part of the further education and training curriculum delivered at LYS’ Community Training Centre, Lr. Glentworth St, Limerick with the support of the Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board.
A member of Youth Work Ireland and the Irish Association of Community Training Centres, LYS remains committed to connecting with young people and supporting them to reach their full potential.
ENDS####
