HARD-WORKING AGRI STUDENTS PRAISED
THE hard work and commitment shown by Coláiste An Átha PLC Agricultural students was celebrated with a ceremony held at the Talbot Hotel in Wexford.
More than 50 students received a certificate for completing full-time QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture and Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture.
Student Mark Doyle was presented with a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture Student of the Year Award and Pat Kinsella received Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture Student of the Year Award.
The courses are provided in Coláiste An Átha, Kilmuckridge by co-ordinator Paul Doran who helps to meet the needs of the Wexford farming community. It was developed six years ago with local farmers and farming groups such as Macra na Feirme and the Irish Farmers Association.
‘On completion of Level 6 the holder will be classified as a young trained farmer,’ said Mr Doran. ‘Level 6 has been developed recently by the college to provide students with a natural progression from the Level 5 Certificate course.’
Principal of Coláiste An Átha, Elizabeth Martin, welcomed everyone to the presentation ceremony and congratulated the students for their great success throughout the year.
There were some special guest speakers on the night, including Chief Executive of the Irish Farmers Association, Damian McDonald; Chief Executive of Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board, Kevin Lewis; Agriculture Business Manager for Redmills, Michael Phelan; Chief Executive for North Quays Development Waterford, Robert Cass; and member of the Procurement Team from Slaney Foods, Denis Brennan.
‘ The course has received a huge, positive response from the farming community in Wexford,’ said Mr Doran. ‘Progressive local farmers in particular have been very generous with their expertise and with facilitating some excellent field trips.’ After the certificate presentations, the staff, guests and students enjoyed refreshments, finger food and some light musical entertainment.