New principal announced for Laois third level college

A new principal has been announced for a third level college in Laois.

Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board has announced the appointment of Keith McClearn as the new Principal
of Portlaoise Institute.

A Galway native, Keith will not be moving too far for his new job, as he was the Deputy Principal of Portlaoise College and Portlaoise Institute.

"Keith brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.

"His own educational journey began in east Galway where he hails from. He obtained qualifications from NUI Galway, Sheffield Hallam University and Trinity College. He is currently completing a PHD in Educational Leadership with Dublin City University," an LOETB spokesperson said.

Mr McClearn said he has exciting plans.

“It is truly an honour to be appointed Principal of Portlaoise Institute. I have every confidence that, with the support of our team of progressive and enthusiastic teaching and support staff, Portlaoise Institute will be a hub of excellence and a leader in the provision of further education and training in the region. I am looking forward to taking up the position and have exciting
plans for Portlaoise Institute,” he said.

Portlaoise Institute is a long-established provider of adult and further education, having provided Post-Leaving Certificate courses in Portlaoise for over 20 years.

Situated in a central location in Portlaoise, in a modern building which is about to undergo a significant extension, the Institute
currently caters for 250 full time PLC learners annually on daytime courses, and also provides evening provision.

In 2023, the range of programmes offered in the Institute will extend to Apprenticeships, Traineeships and a wide range of part-time options.

The planned extension will further expand the Institute’s capacity to provide flexible and responsive further education and
training courses through daytime and evening provision.

Anne Marie Keane is the Further Education & Training Manager with LOETB.

“I am delighted to appoint Keith to the role of Principal in Portlaoise Institute. Keith’s learner-centred approach and wide range of experience will be a huge asset to the Institute, and I have no doubt that we will see Portlaoise Institute expand significantly in relation to FET provision in the near future,” she said.

'No places whatsoever' in Portlaoise primary schools

Tony Dalton is a Director of FET.

“The appointment of Portlaoise Institute’s first Principal is an exciting development, and I have no doubt that Keith’s enthusiasm and professionalism will be a key factor in Portlaoise Institute emerging as a key provider of FET in the region. I wish Keith every success in his new role,” the Director said.