Midlands Organisation Nominated For STAR Award

Friday, 24 February 2023 10:25

The awards ceremony will take place in Croke Park on Friday, 10th March.

A midlands organisation has been nominated for its adult learning initiative.

Polytunnel in Primary Schools Project (PIPS) is among 26 initiatives nationwide that have been shortlisted for the annual STAR Awards, coordinated by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation.

The Adult Learners’ Festival, celebrates adult learning across the island of Ireland, is taking place between 6th to 10th March, with events in Westmeath.

After the week-long festival the STAR Awards ceremony will take place in Croke Park on Friday, 10th March.

There will be 10 categories in the awards.

PIPS, an initiative which gives students the opportunity to grow crops all year round, has been shortlisted in the Social Inclusion category which recognises engagement with local communities and contributions to social and cultural life.

Speaking ahead of the festival launch, Dearbháil Lawless, Chief Executive of AONTAS, invited people from across Westmeath to check out the programme of online and local events:

“Adult and community educations is about more than gaining a qualification. For many, it is about meeting new people, learning something new or rediscovering an old passion. That’s what our theme ‘Create Your World’ is all about – this is an opportunity for everyone to create something new in their life which brings joy! Whether you want to take a class or a course, the Adult Learners’ Festival is a great opportunity to get a taste for something. There really is something for everyone at this year’s festival – from knitting and crochet taster sessions to paediatric first aid classes, as well as introductions to hot stone therapy, flower arranging and sustainable living! There are also a wide range of information sessions to learn about Further Education and Training courses and about learner supports and assistance for those hoping to undertake a course.”

Lawless also invited organisations in Westmeath to join in this year’s Adult Learners’ Festival by holding an event for people locally or online.

“There’s still time to register your event with us on adultlearnersfestival.ie, whether you’re planning an information session, a workshop or taster class, or even an open day style activity such as a walk and talk or coffee morning."

Festival events in Westmeath include:

· A Savage Silence- A play by renowned psychotherapist Rory Hafford

· Self Defence Skills

· A beauty pampering session focusing on skin care, make-up techniques, and hand massage.