Prestigious national award for Mayo college for second year running
Mayo College of Further Education & Training (MCFET) named Best Further Education Provider at the Education Awards 2026, achieving this prestigious national honour for the second year in a row.
This back-to-back success recognises the college’s unwavering commitment to high-quality teaching and learning, student-centred support, and strong partnerships with industry and community across Mayo and the wider region.
Principal Michael Murphy paid tribute to the entire college community, stating: “This award for the second consecutive year 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 and to showcase what Mayo and the West of Ireland can achieve on a national stage.”
Tom Grady, chief executive of Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), congratulated the college on its achievement:
“Mayo College of Further Education & Training exemplifies the very best of what further education can deliver for learners, employers and communities.
"Their continued success at the Education Awards highlights the impact of a clear vision, dedicated staff and strong local partnerships in delivering high-quality education and training opportunities across our region.”
Peter Egan, director of Further Education and Training at MSLETB, highlighted the regional significance of the award.
“This recognition reinforces the crucial role that further education and training plays in driving skills, innovation and opportunity in Mayo and the wider western region.
"MCFET’s work ensures that learners of all ages can upskill, reskill and progress in a rapidly changing world, while supporting local employers and contributing directly to sustainable economic development in the region.”
As a key further education provider in the west of Ireland, MCFET continues to expand its programme offering, strengthen progression routes to higher education and employment, and deliver inclusive, flexible pathways that reflect the needs of learners, employers and communities.
Winning Best Further Education Provider for a second successive year cements Mayo College of Further Education & Training’s position as a national leader in the sector and a source of pride for Mayo and the surrounding region