STAR Awards Winners 2025
Adult Learning Initiatives that support
Learner Voice Sponsored by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
WINNER
Voter Education Programme from REHAB
The nationwide Voter Education Programme from REHAB engages and empowers people in the National Learning Network and in RehabCare services across Ireland to understand and use their vote.
Adult Learning Initiatives that support
Health and Wellbeing Sponsored by Mental Health Ireland
WINNER
RADE, Recovery Through Art & Education, Dublin 8
Dublin 8-based RADE provides programmes that connect drug-users and those in recovery with artistic workshops and relapse prevention workshops, and provides therapeutic supports to people struggling with substance dependency.
WINNER
The Blocks from Rialto Community Drug Team and City of Dublin Education and Training Board
The Blocks is an arts initiative for people whose lives have been impacted by addiction in the Rialto and Dolphin’s Barn areas of Dublin city.
Adult Learning Initiatives that support
Third-level Access and Engagement
WINNER
The Certificate in Transition to Higher Education at Technological University of the Shannon
This foundation preparation course provides a pathway for people from under-represented groups to access higher education.
Adult Learning Initiatives that support
Social Inclusion Sponsored by Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN NI)
WINNER
The ‘Great to Train’ (GTT) initiative, funded by Cork Education and Training Board and led by Cork Simon Community
The ‘Great to Train’ initiative supports people accessing homeless services in Cork by building their personal and work-related skills through training, therapy and learning.
WINNER
Welcome English Language Centre
Based in Cork city, the Welcome English Language Centre provides social integration supports and English language classes to people newly arrived to Ireland.
Adult Learning Initiatives that support
Global Citizenship Education Sponsored by SAOLTA
WINNER
Active Citizenship Voter Education Programme at the Dublin Adult Learning Centre
This course informs people living in Dublin’s North Inner City about voting and democracy through informative and interactive sessions.
The Open University's "Shooting Star" award Sponsored by The Open University in Ireland
WINNER
Transformative Journeys for Traveller Women, by Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board
This programme empowers parents or carers who have experienced cumulative trauma and have been denied access to education and societal opportunities.
Special Recognition for a European Social Fund (ESF) Initiative Sponsored by the European Social Fund
WINNER
Beyond the Barriers, Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board
This project was awarded for capturing and sharing the voices of adult learners in the Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board literacy service, highlighting their personal journeys and achievements, especially those who have faced unique challenges in returning to education