Portlaoise Institute Celebrates Graduation of Students at Special Ceremony
Killeshin Hotel sees achievements of hundreds of Portlaoise Institute students who completed their studies during 2025/26 academic year celebrated.
Portlaoise Institute held its annual Graduation Ceremony at the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise on Friday, 4thSeptember, celebrating the achievements of hundreds of students who completed their studies during the 2025/26 academic year.
The special occasion featured two graduation ceremonies, providing an opportunity for students, families, friends and staff to come together to mark an important milestone in the students’ educational journeys.
More than 600 students studied at Portlaoise Institute during the 2025/26 academic year, across a wide range of programmes and courses. This included full-time and part-time students, evening learners, tertiary degree students and apprentices.
Addressing graduates at the ceremonies, Principal Keith McClearn paid tribute to the determination and commitment shown by students throughout their time at the Institute.
“Graduation is never just about a piece of paper or a certificate. It represents countless hours of effort and resilience in the face of challenges. However, you showed a determination to see things through to the end. That’s why you are here tonight,”
He also highlighted the important role played by the staff of Portlaoise Institute in supporting students throughout the year.
“Without a shadow of a doubt, the success of our students would not have been possible without the commitment of the fantastic staff of Portlaoise Institute”.
The ceremonies were attended by a number of special guests, including Joe Cunningham, CEO of Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB); Michelle Shanahan, FET Pathways Manager with LOETB; Emma Gillcreest, FET Strategic Lead and Tertiary Manager, LOETB; Cleo Knight, Business and Psychology lecturer and current Ms Offaly; and former Portlaoise Institute student Jeandre Pilser.
The Graduation Ceremonies provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate not only the academic achievements of the students, but also the hard work, determination and personal growth that brought them to this point. It was a proud occasion for the graduates, their families, friends and the staff of Portlaoise Institute.
As the graduates look ahead to the next chapter, whether that is further study, employment or a new career path, Portlaoise Institute wishes each and every one of them every success for the future.
Congratulations to the Portlaoise Institute Class of 2025/26 — and best wishes for the journey ahead.
