LOETB-Teagasc learner support partnership marks one year of success
One year on from its launch, Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) and Teagasc are celebrating continued progress in learner support and agricultural training.
Beginning as a pilot, the partnership is serving to boost learner engagement, progression and retention across Teagasc’s programmes. A key success has been the rollout of enhanced learner support services in Teagasc colleges, ensuring students receive the guidance and resources needed to succeed in their educational journey and future careers.
Under the initiative, Learner Support Workers, funded by LOETB, now provide tailored one-to-one assistance in all seven agricultural colleges, helping students overcome challenges, access resources and build confidence throughout their learning journey.
“We are very proud to see the Learner Support initiative extended across all agricultural colleges,” Joe Cunningham, Chief Executive of LOETB, said.
“The pilot demonstrated the real value of combining educational delivery with structured learner supports.
“Many students in the agricultural sector balance their studies with work on family farms or employment, and having a dedicated support service ensures they are not left behind. This extension reflects our shared commitment with Teagasc to ensure agricultural education is inclusive, responsive and future-focused,” Joe Cunningham said.
Professor Frank O’Mara, Director of Teagasc, added: “Teagasc is delighted to continue our established relationship with LOETB.
“The provision of dedicated learning support officers at each of our colleges is welcomed and greatly enhances our commitment and support to all learners.
“Our colleges are long recognised for the delivery of practical science-based skills development in an inclusive learning environment. The initiative with LOETB further strengthens this learner experience,” Professor O’Mara said.
In the future, LOETB and Teagasc will continue to build on their partnership, expanding training opportunities and learner supports to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.
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