Proud milestone for progressive Mayo college
Mayo College of Further Education and Training (MCFET) has been awarded Further Education Provider of the Year 2025 at the prestigious Education Awards in Dublin, recognising its exceptional innovation, inclusivity and impact on learners and communities across Mayo and beyond.
Formed in 2021 through the merger of Castlebar and Westport Colleges of Further Education, MCFET has rapidly become a national leader in the sector.
The college has expanded its full-time course offerings from 40 to over 65, increased staff from 30 to 70, and grown enrolments by 75% in just four years.
Innovative highlights that set MCFET apart:
• College of the Future Project: As one of twelve national College of the Future capital projects we are developing a new state-of-the-art campus at Castlebar.
• Erasmus+ Integration: Over 140 students and 30 staff participated in international mobilities in 2024, with placements in 14 countries and even a ground-breaking agricultural placement in New Zealand.
• Micro-Qualifications: The college is developing Micro qualifications in Agriculture in areas such as Indigenous Crop Production. A recent trial sowed and milled ancient grain from the Ceide Fields.
• Online Agricultural Education: Ireland’s largest online Green Cert programme, supported by cutting-edge simulators, serving over 200 learners annually.
• Sustainability Leadership: 8,000+ hours of student volunteer work, 6,000+ trees planted, and partnerships with Mayo GAA and Connacht GAA to promote biodiversity and climate action.
• Access & Equity: Free tuition, free inter-campus transport, and progression pathways to a wide range of higher education institutions.
Principal Michael Murphy commented: “This award is a tribute to the vision, passion, and resilience of our staff, students, and community partners.
"We are proud to lead the way in transforming lives through further education.”