There were joyous scenes at the Abundant Life Centre, Limerick this past week as young people from Limerick Youth Service (LYS) were honoured at a Celebration of Learning at the city centre location.
The young people, who are either current or past learners with LYS’ Community Training Centre (CTC) were presented with their Certificates of Achievement from Evelyn O’Keeffe-Sheehan, Limerick Clare Education & Training Board.
Welcoming the young people, their families and friends, James Connery, Manager LYS CTC, congratulated the learners on their outstanding achievements.
‘Your results are exemplary and a reflection of your dedication and commitment,’ said James adding ‘we are proud to see that many of you have progressed to further education and employment.’
‘Those of you that have graduated are great role models to your peers who are currently studying with us,’ said James.
Graduates from LYS’ Early Childcare Class with Evelyn O’Keeffe-Sheehan (LCETB)
The young people also heard from guest speaker Padraig Reale, a graduate of LYS, who spoke about his time with both the education and youth work parts of youth organisation.
‘When I finished my Leaving Cert I wasn’t too pleased with my results,’ said Padraig, adding ‘suddenly one September all my friends were going to college and I was left wondering what to do!’
‘I heard about a Business Studies Course at LYS, applied for it and to be honest I haven’t looked back since,’ explained Padraig who is now a youth & community worker with Garryowen Community Development Project.
‘The course (Business Studies QQI Level 5) was very enjoyable and reignited an interest in education and from it I went to college where I graduated with a Business Studies & Sports Management Degree at LIT,’ Padraig said.
‘My time with the (LYS) CTC also gave me opportunities such as work experience and volunteering with my local youth club and this gave me an insight into an area that I would eventually work in,’ smiled Padraig.
Getting involved with your local community was a key theme of Padraig’s speech as he encouraged the young people to engage with their communities whether it be with a local sports team or youth club saying ‘give a little back and gain more.’
(from left) Evelyn O’Keeffe-Sheehan, LCETB presented Mark Payne with Leaving Cert Applied Accreditation.
After the formalities were over the graduates spent time with their instructors, teachers, friends and family as they enjoyed some tasty treat courtesy of LYS’ Bakery & Catering teams.
LYS wishes to congratulate the young people on their success and thank their families, tutors, teachers and staff for their support as well as the Abundant Life Centre for the use of their space.
Retail Sales & Skills Class of 2017/18 with their instructor Clodagh Campbell (second from left)
Located at Lr. Glentworth St, Limerick, LYS’s Community Training Centre is home to a variety of courses that cover many disciplines including Early Childcare, Retail, Bakery, Catering, Woodwork & Leaving Cert Applied.
LYS’ Community Training Centre is one of nearly thirty five Youth & Community Training Centres across Ireland that provide education and training courses for young people (16-21yrs).
LYS’ Community Training Centre is supported by the Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board, Solas and the European Social Fund.
A member of Youth Work Ireland, Limerick Youth Service remains committed to connecting with young people and supporting them to reach their full potential.
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