Turning back the clock to the at the Education Awards 2026, Mayo College of Further Education and Training has been named winner of the Best Further Education Provider, recognised earlier this year for an ambitious, forward-thinking approach to further education that combines strong regional impact, extensive industry and higher education partnerships, and a genuine commitment to removing barriers for learners across County Mayo and beyond.

Serving 5,000 learners and backed by a €50 million campus investment, MCFET has built a provision that spans innovative micro-credentials, international mobility, and community-based delivery, ensuring that access to quality further education is not limited by geography, background, or circumstance.

Practical supports including free transport and community-based provision reflect an institution that understands what genuine access requires and has invested in removing the obstacles that prevent learners from participating.

The college's internationalisation agenda sets it apart from many further education providers. Over 150 Erasmus placements give students direct exposure to international learning environments, while 8,000 hours of community volunteering demonstrate an institution that sees its responsibilities extending into the communities it serves as well as the classrooms it fills.

Strong partnerships with higher education institutions and industry partners have created clear progression pathways for learners, reinforcing MCFET's role not just as an education provider but as a regional skills development engine with national reach.

Judges were clear on what elevated the submission. "MCFET stood out for its ambitious, forward-thinking approach, focusing on access, regional development, and progression. Its extensive provision across the county, strong partnerships with higher education and industry, and commitment to internationalisation through Erasmus stand out. Practical supports like free transport and community-based provision help remove barriers, while over 150 Erasmus placements and 8,000 hours of community volunteering highlight its significant impact on student success and regional skills development," the panel stated.

The Education Awards 2026 gala took place on 16 April at the Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath.

The Best Further Education Provider award is open to all further education providers in Ireland and recognises outstanding overall performance across innovation, learning outcomes, infrastructure, teaching standards, student experience, and the strength of partnerships and collaborations built to support learner progression and regional skills development.

For the complete 2026 winners list, category insights, and institution profiles, visit the official Education Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for updates and insights.