Students from Coláiste na Ríochta, Listowel, are celebrating a major achievement after securing a double win at the Kerry Student Enterprise Awards, held at MTU on March 13th.
The school was honoured with the Best School Award, while students also claimed the Best Use of the Irish Language (Duais Gaeilge), marking a proud day for the entire school community.
The winning project, Little Heroes, was developed by David Hunt and Katie Stack from Fifth Year, along with Sinéad Buckley, Izzie Griffin and Layla Stack from Transition Year. Their impressive business plan captured the judges’ attention for its powerful focus on inclusion, creativity and sustainability. Little Heroes creates inclusive and sustainable teddy bears designed to represent a wide range of life experiences and illnesses. Each bear carries its own story and purpose, promoting the positive message that being different is what makes each of us special. By collecting and redesigning donated teddies, the students give each one a new lease of life while creating meaningful companions for children.
The project is a strong example of STEAM education in action, combining technology, creativity and environmental awareness. The students made use of 3D printing, sewing and graphic design, while also incorporating elements of Gaeilge and Irish Sign Language, further underlining their commitment to inclusion and education.
Speaking after the awards, the students said they were delighted to represent their school and proud to see their hard work recognised at county level. They also expressed sincere thanks to their teacher, Mr Cathal O’Mahony, and SNA Mr Seán Maunsell, for their continued support and guidance throughout the project.
Principal Iseult Glynn praised the students’ achievement, highlighting the way the project successfully combined enterprise with the Irish language, sustainability, disability awareness, inclusion and modern technology, including 3D printing and graphic design. “This success reflects the creativity, compassion and innovation of our students,” she said.
Congratulations to all involved on an outstanding achievement.
