News
Teaching graduate Saoirse O’Connor receives Outstanding Performance award
Killarney native has been recognised for her exceptional dedication to teaching with the prestigious Outstanding Performance in School Experience and Professional Practice award at Hibernia College’s recent conferring ceremony.
Saoirse, a graduate of the Post-Primary Education programme, was celebrated alongside over 930 peers who earned qualifications in Primary and Post-Primary teaching or in Inclusive and Special Education.
She is the daughter of renowned musician Liam O’Connor.
The event, held at Dublin’s Convention Centre, highlighted the achievements of educators from across all 26 counties.
The accolade reflects Saoirse’s excellence during her school placements, a core component of the programme designed to prepare future educators for real-world challenges in the classroom.
Her commitment and skill not only earned her top marks but also set her apart as a role model for aspiring teachers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Mary Kelly, Academic Dean at Hibernia College, said:
“All of you here today will help shape futures, inspire change, and contribute to the betterment of society in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.”
Saoirse’s recognition underscores her passion for education and her potential to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
Another Kerry graduate, Clodagh Carey from Tralee, also shone at the event, receiving the Student of the Year Award for the Primary Education programme.
FESTIVAL HIT: Local accordion virtuoso Liam O’Connor pictured performing alongside his family band members, daughter Saoirse on vocals and keyboards, and sons Oisín on guitar and Cillian on drums, during their high-energy set on the Salty Dog Stage at Electric Picnic in Stradbally last weekend. Photos: Paul Dargan
Camera Club exhibition opens at Killarney House
Killarney Camera Club’s 25th anniversary exhibition is open to the public at Killarney House until Sunday, October 4.
Mayor of Killarney Councillor John O’Donoghue officially opened the event, which features a wide range of work from local photographers capturing landscapes, people, and moments from home and abroad.
Speaking at the opening, Mayor O’Donoghue highlighted the rich natural surroundings available to local photographers. “We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world, with dramatic mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and a vibrant town centre, as well as beaches and open sea just a short distance away,” he said.
In a lighthearted admission, the Mayor admitted to storing hundreds of photos on his phone, adding that seeing the standard of work on display inspired him “to finally print some of my own photographs for posterity.”
The club was founded in 2001 as the Photographic Society of Killarney at the Park Place Hotel before adopting its current name in 2006. Founding member Seamus Long recalled starting with just eight members, contrasting it with today’s membership of over 30 photographers who meet at the ANAM Arts and Cultural Centre.
“There is nothing better than seeing your images in print, mounted and framed and hanging on a wall,” Mr Long said, referencing the club’s shift from traditional darkrooms to modern digital photography.
To mark the anniversary, the club has published a commemorative booklet featuring 25 select images from members past and present. The limited-edition booklet is available at Eason’s and directly from the club.
The exhibition runs daily at Killarney House until October 4. Admission is free and all are welcome.
FESTIVAL HIT: Liam O’Connor at Electric Picnic – picture special
FESTIVAL HIT: Local accordion virtuoso Liam O’Connor pictured performing alongside his family band members, daughter Saoirse on vocals and keyboards,...
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