Mayo students celebrate completion of Coillte’s World of Work Programme

Second year students from St Tiernan’s College, Crossmolina, celebrated the completion of Coillte’s World of Work Programme 2026 at a special event held at their school, where the students shared their feedback and learnings from this year’s Programme.

The celebratory event marked a significant milestone for the students who joined peers from schools across Mayo, Galway and Kilkenny as part of this year’s programme, with a total of 128 students taking part nationwide.

The programme, which is delivered in partnership with Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI), saw students avail of the opportunity to visit a Coillte forest, with a Coillte forester, to gain direct insight into what’s involved in a career in forestry.

Now in its third consecutive year at St Tiernan’s College, the programme continues to provide students with unique, hands-on insight into the world of forestry, sustainability and future career opportunities. To date, over 400 students nationwide have participated in the initiative which showcases the variety of roles available in the forestry sector, as well as the many benefits forests provide for climate, nature, wood and people.

Lorraine McHale, Deputy Principal at St Tiernan’s College, said: “Our students really enjoyed their experience participating in the World of Work Programme with Coillte. The programme gives students a valuable opportunity to learn beyond the classroom in a way that is engaging, interactive and activity based. It has increased students’ knowledge of forestry and sustainability in a fun and collaborative environment.”