New principal for Tullamore Further Education and Training Centre

A new principal and deputy principal have been announced for Tullamore Further Education and Training Centre (FETC).

Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) today (Friday) revealed the appointment of Ms Irene Togher as principal, and Mr Jonathan O’Brien as Deputy Principal. Both took up their appointments at the start of this new academic year.

In expressing her delight at her appointment to the centre in Tara Street, Tullamore, Irene said: "I look forward to supporting the dynamic and dedicated team, staff and students of Tullamore FETC".

Prior to taking up her post Irene worked in Dunboyne College of Further Education for twelve years. Her qualifications include an English and Legal Studies BA, a Law Degree and a MA in Media Studies.

She started her educational career at second level, teaching English, before moving into the post leaving cert sector to teach law.

Irene was instrumental in establishing a successful law programme in Dunboyne College, where she was later appointed as the college’s first Assistant Principal. She became Deputy Principal in 2019 and is now excited to be joining Tullamore FETC as its Principal.

"I am delighted to be part of the excellent team in Tullamore FETC,’ Irene said. "I can see a bright future for the centre where we can provide high quality education and progression opportunities for students in a positive and inclusive environment."

Irene anticipates much growth in the centre and has plans to expand courses and options for progression in the coming years.

"We want Tullamore FETC to be a student’s first choice for further education. We welcome all levels, from literacy to tertiary education, and provide quality education on your doorstep.

"Established and new links with universities will expand out our potential to keep students attending local education, while progressing through all levels, right up to degrees."

Irene is joined at senior management level by Jonathan O’Brien, the newly appointed deputy principal. Jonathan has been a member of the teaching team at Tullamore FETC for the past eight years.

His qualifications include a BSc in Business Computing, and most notably, a recent completion of a MA in Teaching and Learning from South-East Technological University (SETU), demonstrating his unwavering commitment to continuous professional development.

His appointment has generated excitement within the FET Centre in Tullamore, as he eagerly steps into his new role. He envisions himself as "a pivotal figure in shaping the educational landscape", driven by an underlying passion for lifelong learning.

At the core of his mission is "fostering collaboration and contributing to the centre’s overarching goal of providing educational opportunities not only to the local community but also to wider audiences."

Tony Dalton, Director of Further Education and Training (FET), expressed his enthusiasm about the recent appointments at Tullamore Further Education and Training Centre.

" I believe that the selection of Irene Togher as the first principal of Tullamore FETC and Jonathan O'Brien as the deputy principal marks an exciting milestone for the centre.

"I am confident that Irene and Jonathan's dedication and expertise will play a pivotal role in further positioning Tullamore FETC as a prominent FET provider in the region. I wish them both every success in their new positions."

Tullamore FET Centre has grown substantially over the past few years, with 17 full-time Post Leaving Cert. (PLC) programmes on offer this academic year.

In addition, it continues to offer a wide range of part-time courses, offered both during the day and evening.

Up-to-date course information is available from https://www.tullamorefetc.ie./