The Minister for Education Norma Foley has welcomed the establishment of a standalone Further Education and Training Campus (Kerry College) for full and part-time level 5 and level 6 courses in Listowel that will see the Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB) establish a permanent base in the town.
o date, the provision of these courses has been co-located with Coláiste Na Ríochta Post Primary School in Listowel.
The new building, which is located at Clieveragh Industrial Estate, was acquired for €445,000 and consists of a modern, two storey detached building c. 5,524 sqm and situated on approximately 1.1 acres.
The move has been planned for several years and last week’s announcement that contracts have been signed by KETB at a recent board meeting paves the way for the acquisition of the new property.
Minister Foley said the acquisition represents a significant investment by KETB in terms of both post-primary and Further Education and Training in the Listowel and North Kerry area.
In addition, the new campus will provide a comprehensive suite of full and part time programmes and will support the development of vocational options and pathways for local schools, so the needs of all students are met.
“I am delighted to welcome the news of this significant purchase which will greatly enhance the provision of Further Education & Training in North Kerry. This investment is further proof of the excellence in education provided by Kerry ETB, and it represents a deserved recognition for the hard work of management, staff and students,” Minister Foley said.
KETB intends to engage contractors to refurbish the new campus in the coming weeks, with the intention of having the building fully operational by late 2022.
A sample of the courses to be made available include Advanced Early Childhood Care and Education, Applied Social Studies, Business with Marketing/Administration, Medical Administration, Nursing Studies, Art, Craft and Design, Hairdressing, and Healthcare Support.
The Cathaoirleach of Kerry ETB, Cllr. Jim Finucane, said that, strategically, this is a key acquisition for the development of the ETB in Listowel and North Kerry.
“The ETB places significant emphasis on ensuring our learners and staff have access to modern facilities and this building, when fully developed, will provide excellent facilities for the delivery of Further Education and Training courses” Cllr Finucane said.
