St Sheelan's College

a success story in Templemore

St Sheelan's College is one of the good news stories of the county in the past few years.  Only four years ago, there were concerns about its future because of dropping student numbers in the area, and fears that it might have to close.  However, North Tipperary VEC, with the support of the college and of the Department of Education and Science, decided to develop a college of further education in the town.  Since then, full-time enrolments in the college have grown from a low point of 89 to 225 this year – the highest enrolment in its history.  In addition, 1082 adults attended part-time courses organised by the college in the past year.

Among the full time courses are Interior Design, Beauty Therapy, Complementary Therapies, Hairdressing, Tourism & Travel, Security Studies, Landscaping & Design and Office Technology as well as a range of computer courses.  All courses are fully certified and are designed to lead to employment opportunities.  In all cases, students can avail of professional certification, as well as the national FETAC awards.

In addition, the college offers a literacy service for adults and has also participated in a number of national and European projects in recent years, some in conjunction with Templemore Social Services.  It is the lead partner in the New Futures project which has partners in six European countries and which is seeking to provide opportunities for members of farm families who are facing an uncertain economic future.

The college has undergone major refurbishment in the past few years, and is now a very well equipped further education college.

All adult college

Being an all-adult college means that there is a great atmosphere in the college, and it is not like school in the past.  Dan Condren, principal, says that it is the most exciting place he has worked in.    “There is great buzz in the college”, he says.  “and a great atmosphere of co-operation between students and teachers.  As well as getting a lot of work done, both students and teachers enjoy being there, and that is very important”. 

Childcare

St Sheelan's Community Childcare Services, a community group, has been granted funding to develop a childcare centre in the college grounds.  This will provide childcare services for the town of Templemore generally as well as for students in the college.

Benefits for town

The success of the college has had significant benefits for the town of Templemore.  Students come to the college from all over Ireland, and many stay in accommodation in the town.  In addition, the college is now one of the biggest contributors to the lunchtime trade in the town.

For further details, check out the college website at www.sheelan.ie