Longford students celebrate major STEM achievement at university graduation

Students from St Mel’s College, Lanesboro Community College, Ardscoil Phádraig and Moyne Community School were among graduates who took part in the recent STEM Passport for Inclusion graduation ceremony, a university-accredited programme

Published 7th May 2026, 11:56 BST Updated 7th May 2026, 11:57 BST The students of Longford schools in attendance at the graduation Students from St Mel’s College, Lanesboro Community College, Ardscoil Phádraig and Moyne Community School were among graduates who took part in the recent STEM Passport for Inclusion graduation ceremony, a university-accredited programme Sign up to our Longford Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Longford Live within your account.

Longford students have taken centre stage at a national STEM graduation ceremony.

Students from St Mel’s College, Lanesboro Community College, Ardscoil Phádraig and Moyne Community School were among graduates who took part in the recent STEM Passport for Inclusion graduation ceremony, a university-accredited programme designed to open pathways into science, technology, engineering and maths careers. Longford students

The group successfully completed the Level 6 National Framework of Qualifications module, 'Introduction to 21st Century STEM Skills.'

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Among the Longford graduates on the day was teacher Mairead Reynolds of St Mel’s College who also received the Outstanding School Engagement Award. Teacher Mairead Reynolds of St Mel's College being presented with her award by Dr Gemma Irvine and Isabel Meza Silva

This award recognised St Mel’s College as having shown exceptional commitment to the programme, with Ms Reynolds and staff supporting students along the way.

Ms Reynolds was praised for her dedication and collaboration which helped to create a positive, inclusive environment where students are empowered to achieve their goals.

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Longford County Council piloted the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme in local hubs the Latin School Moyne and EDI Centre during the 2023/2024 academic year. Students of Lanesboro Community College

Following its ongoing success, the programme has expanded for the 2025/2026 academic year and is now being offered and delivered across all nine post‑primary schools in County Longford .

Delivering the programme locally has reduced transportation costs by removing the need for participants to travel to Dublin, making the programme far more accessible for rural communities throughout Longford.

Read: Roads alert: 8 day closure of North Longford local road Students of Ardscoil Pádraig

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said the initiative is creating real educational opportunities.

“This programme has opened real opportunities for young people in County Longford. It is encouraging to see students from our post-primary schools complete a university-accredited module and be recognised for their work. It shows what can be achieved when education is made accessible and inclusive.” Students of St Mel's College

Longford County Council Chief Executive, Paddy Mahon, also highlighted the importance of the programme when it comes to removing barriers to education.

“Longford County Council is proud to have piloted and expanded the STEM Passport for Inclusion locally. Delivering the programme in the county has removed practical barriers for students and supported equal access to third-level pathways.”

Related topics: Longford Longford County Council St Mel’s College Lanesboro Community College Moyne Community School Sign up to our Longford Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Longford Live within your account.