‘It starts with education’

More than 17,000 learners engaged with education and training services across Cavan and Monaghan last year as CMETB recorded continued growth in student numbers, specialist supports and further education opportunities.

The figures were outlined in the CMETB Annual Report 2025, presented to board members by Chief Executive Fiona McGrath during a meeting at St Bricin’s College in Belturbet.

Operating with an overall annual budget of €131M, CMETB now serves more than 6,284 post-primary students across its schools, alongside over 11,350 learners participating in further education and training programmes.

Among the key developments highlighted in the report were the opening of a new community special school, the expansion of specialist educational provision and the rollout of new tertiary degree pathways and traineeship programmes designed to respond to changing workforce demands.

A slight increase in student numbers attending ETB secondary schools was also recorded during the year.

The report noted that there are now 18 special classes operating across CMETB’s 11 secondary schools in Cavan and Monaghan, reflecting growing demand for inclusive and specialist educational supports.

Meanwhile, almost 2,000 learners participated in full and part-time third-level programmes through CMETB-linked initiatives.

The report also highlighted the diversity of the student population across the region. In 2025, 19 students sat the Leaving Certificate examination in Polish, while educational supports and classes were provided to 732 Ukrainian refugees and International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) residents.

Outside the classroom, more than 100 young people participated in youth theatre programmes supported by CMETB.

Chairperson Aprilanna Barker, whose report accompanies the Chief Executive’s submission to the Department of Education, said the document represented only a “small” snapshot of the work taking place across the organisation.

While education may begin in the classroom, she said its impact reaches much further into society and the economy.

“It starts with education,” Ms Barker told the meeting.

She said Ireland’s strong economic position is closely linked to the country’s investment in education and skills development, adding that CMETB has continued to adapt in response to rapid technological and societal change.

According to Ms Barker, the ETB has “not stood still” in the face of advancing technology and shifting educational demands, particularly in the area of further education and training.

She praised the organisation’s ability to remain responsive to emerging trends and learner needs, while continuing to provide pathways for students of all interests and abilities.

“I’m very proud as chair to see the holistic approach to education,” she said.