Ballincollig Youthreach marks 30 years of helping young people

Cork College of FET Ballincollig Youthreach has celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of supporting young people who have left mainstream schooling.

Ballincollig Youthreach was established in January 1995 and was officially opened on September 23, 1996, by Bernard Allen TD, then minister for youth and sport.

The anniversary event brought together current and former students, staff, co-ordinators, board of management members, parents, colleagues and supporters of the centre.

Guests included Lord Mayor Damian Boylan, members of the Cork ETB board, representatives from across Cork ETB and Further Education and Training, and family members of current and past students.

Mr Boylan, who unveiled the commemorative plaque, said: “Places like this matter enormously. 

“Education is not one-size-fits-all. People learn differently. People develop at different times. 

“And sometimes a young person simply needs a different environment, another opportunity, and somebody who is prepared to see the potential in them.

“For 30 years, that is what people in this centre have provided.”

The centre’s first students played an active part in renovating the industrial building that continues to house Ballincollig Youthreach, helping to transform the premises into an educational centre while gaining practical experience in planning, teamwork and construction-related work.

Early courses included mechanics, catering, hairdressing and enterprise, while the centre was also home to Busy Babies, an onsite creche that supported young parents participating in education.

Karen Hogan, the centre’s co-ordinator, said: “As we look back over the last three decades, we celebrate the thousands of stories that have passed through these doors.

“We celebrate young people who found a second chance, discovered talents they did not know they had, grew in confidence, achieved qualifications and progressed to further education, training and employment.”

Denis Leamy, chief executive of Cork ETB, added that Ballincollig Youthreach “demonstrates the very best of public education and training and shows what can be achieved when talented educators, supportive communities and determined learners come together with a shared purpose.

“As we celebrate 30 years of achievement, we look to the future with confidence and remain committed to providing opportunity, nurturing potential and empowering learners to build fulfilling and successful lives.”

Now part of Cork College of FET, Ballincollig Youthreach offers an alternative educational environment for young people who have left school early. Small, versatile and inclusive classes are provided for up to 30 students.

The centre combines practical learning in areas such as culinary skills, hairdressing, woodwork and art with subjects including communications, mathematics and information technology. Students can work towards QQI Level 3 and QQI Level 4 major awards, while developing life skills and preparing to progress to further education, training or employment.

Ms Hogan added: “Working in Youthreach is about much more than delivering a curriculum.

“It is about building relationships, encouraging belief, offering support and standing alongside young people when they need someone in their corner.”

The celebration recognised the former co-ordinators, teachers, resource workers, personal assistants, boards of management and Cork ETB leaders who have guided and supported the centre.