Robyn Dowling, Skerries, County Dublin is the overall winner of the Teagasc/ FBD Student of the Year 2025 award. In addition to winning the Overall Teagasc/FBD Student of the Year, Robyn was also successful in the Other Land Based Category.
Robyn Dowling, from Skerries, Co. Dublin, achieved a distinction and performed to a very high standard both academically and practically. She attained excellent results across key modules and demonstrated strong focus and work ethic throughout. Robyn also progressed through BHS examinations alongside her studies. Since completing the course, she has established a riding school and continues to develop her work with Connemara ponies.
Edmund Motherway from Ladysbridge, Midleton, County Cork won the ‘Full-Time Agriculture Category’. He completed the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Dairy Herd Management) in Teagasc Kildalton College in Piltown, County Kilkenny.
Edmund Motherway, from Midleton, Co. Cork, completed the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture – Dairy Herd Management with distinction results. He demonstrated strong technical ability and commitment to learning throughout the programme. Edmund received excellent feedback during placements and went on to win a national student competition. He is now farming in partnership at home and continues to develop the enterprise.
Bernadette Donohoe, from Kildavin, Enniscorthy, County Wexford, was successful in the ‘Part-Time and Distance Education Category’. She completed the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture at the Teagasc Advisory Office in Tinahely.
Bernadette Donohoe, from Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, achieved distinction grades across almost all modules. As class representative, she showed strong leadership, supporting and motivating her peers. She balanced her studies alongside family, farming, and work commitments while maintaining excellent standards. Bernadette engaged positively throughout and demonstrated a strong interest in horticulture, with plans to develop this area further.
Eileen Collins, from Douglas, Co. Cork, achieved a distinction and consistently produced work of a very high standard. She engaged fully with tutors and classmates, contributing positively to all aspects of the course. Eileen demonstrated excellent attendance and initiative while also supporting her peers. Her ability to incorporate practical farming experience added value to her own learning and that of others.
Róisín Corkery, from Kinsealy, Co. Dublin, achieved distinctions in both her Level 5 and Level 6 programmes. She engaged fully with all aspects of the course, including new subject areas, and showed strong technical curiosity. Róisín contributed actively to discussions and group work while also attending industry events. Her positive attitude and consistent engagement made her a valued member of the programme.
Audrey Dunne, from Drumcondra, Dublin, achieved excellent results throughout her Level 6 studies and has progressed to further education in horticulture. She performed strongly in both theory and practical work, including achieving full marks in plant identification. Audrey demonstrated a positive attitude and strong engagement throughout the course. She was recognised for her achievements as Level 6 Student of the Year.
Aoife Jones, from Naas, Co. Kildare, made a very positive contribution to college life during her time at Gurteen College. She engaged well in both academic and practical learning and developed strong relationships with staff and peers. Aoife contributed actively to group activities and embraced all aspects of the programme. Her resilience and positive attitude made her a valued member of the college community.
Jason Kelleher, from Innishannon, Co. Cork, achieved distinctions across all modules in the Advanced Certificate in Dairy Herd Management. He demonstrated strong technical knowledge and practical ability, applying his learning effectively on the farm. Jason contributed actively to discussions and worked well with others. He showed leadership, maintained a positive attitude, and is now farming full-time at home.
Martha Langford, from Piltown, Co. Kilkenny, achieved distinction grades at both Level 5 and Level 6 and was awarded Student of the Year for her course. She consistently produced high-quality work and approached her studies with focus and determination. Martha was also supportive of her classmates, offering encouragement and assistance where needed. She contributed positively to the learning environment throughout the programme.
Eoin Loftus, from Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, completed the Advanced Certificate in Agriculture – Drystock Management with strong academic results. He demonstrated a clear commitment to practical learning and showed professionalism during placements. Eoin worked well as part of a team and contributed positively to group activities. He has since progressed to further study in agriculture, building on his experience.
Shane McAuliffe, from Dromagh, Mallow, Co. Cork, achieved distinction grades at both Level 5 and Level 6. He demonstrated strong leadership throughout the course, supporting his peers and contributing positively to group work. Shane showed a clear interest in sustainable farming practices and engaged fully in all aspects of the programme. He is now progressing towards a farm partnership at home.
Charmaine McDermott, from Redcastle, Co. Donegal, performed strongly both academically and practically throughout her course. She brings valuable experience from her family farming enterprise, particularly in beef and sheep systems. Charmaine demonstrated excellent attendance and attention to detail in all aspects of her work. Her consistent approach and strong practical ability make her a deserving finalist.
Colin Mullahy, from Claremorris, Co. Mayo, balanced his studies alongside work, family, and farming commitments. He applied his learning to develop his farm, managing both suckler and calf-to-beef systems. Colin showed a strong interest in sustainability and the use of new technologies. He maintained good academic standards and contributed positively throughout, demonstrating a practical and committed approach.
Oscar Ó Marcaigh, from Blackrock, Co. Dublin, achieved Merit and Distinction grades across his forestry programme. He developed strong technical skills, particularly in timber measurement, and performed well both in college and during placement. As class representative, he demonstrated leadership and supported his peers throughout the course. Oscar also completed additional training, further strengthening his practical skills.
Jack Stevenson, from Lifford, Co. Donegal, achieved strong academic results and applied his learning effectively on the home farm. He demonstrated technical ability in livestock and grassland management, introducing improvements in breeding and sustainability. Jack contributed positively to group work and showed leadership qualities. He continues to develop his skills through practical experience and involvement.
Beth Thornton, from Mallow, Co. Cork, achieved a distinction in her Level 6 Dairy Herd Management programme. She demonstrated strong commitment and maintained high standards throughout her studies. Beth was an active and supportive member of her class and approached learning with focus and determination. Her decision to complete a placement abroad highlights her initiative and willingness to gain experience.
Christina Tobin, from Castletownroche, Co. Cork, achieved distinctions at both Level 5 and Level 6 while balancing farming, career, and family commitments. She applied her learning directly on the farm, improving efficiency and sustainability. Christina demonstrated strong engagement throughout the programme and contributed positively to discussions. Her dedication and practical approach make her a deserving finalist.
