PLC GRADUATION TIME AT THE VOCATIONAL COLLEGE
THE Riverside Park Hotel was buzzing with excitement last week when it played host to Enniscorthy Vocational College’s annual PLC (Post Leaving Certificate) graduation ceremony.
The large crowd in attendance was composed of graduates, who were well presented in their gowns, accompanied by parents and friends in addition to staff members from the school.
There was applause as the successful graduates were called individually to the stage by Ms Anita Cullen - who is joint PLC coordinator.
The graduates were then presented with official certificates by their respective course directors.
A wide range of academic disciplines encompassing Humanities, Science and Technology, Cosmetic Science, Performing Arts, Childcare and Business were showcased.
A significant number of graduates were conferred ‘in absentia’ as a result of being in college or working within their chosen field of study.
The graduates were addressed by a number of different speakers on the day including Dr Iain Wickham (Principal); Deputy James Browne, and Conor Dempsey, Chairman of the Enniscorthy Vocational College’s Board of Management.
Dr Wickham spoke of the journey the graduates were on and encouraged them to constantly upskill regardless of whether they went onto higher education or into the workplace.
He also highlighted the need for everyone to embrace lifelong learning so they could adapt to the ever-increasing changes in the workplace. Dr Wickham also emphasised personal attributes that will assist people in their everyday interactions including emotional intelligence and self-awareness along with having a positive can-do attitude.
He also highlighted that not being afraid to take risks and going outside one’s comfort zone, in addition to having a strong work ethic, will also be of assistance in meeting the demands of everyday life.
In his address Deputy James Browne focused on the importance of enjoying what the graduates do and being passionate about their chosen career.
He spoke of the benefits to be gained from participating in activities going on in the local community.
He spoke from personal experience of people changing their career paths and encouraged the graduates not to be afraid to do so.
‘People’s interests may change over time and it is never too late to avail of educational opportunities,’ he said.
Mr Dempsey complimented all of the graduates on their success and paid tribute to the parents, partners and other family members who contributed so much to their achievement.
He spoke of the value of education in developing resilience in people.
Mr Dempsey also paid tribute to the professionalism of all the staff in the school who he said are constantly striving for improvement as well as ensuring that the pastoral needs of all students are catered for.
The ceremony culminated with the graduates being wished the best of luck with their future life and career choices.