The achievements of South West College students who completed the Heritage Education and Skills programme as part of the Enniskillen Workhouse project, were recently recognised at a Celebration of Success event. The project has seen the roll out of an extensive Heritage Education and Skills Programme for bursary holders and Train the Trainer participants, a reminiscence programme and the restoration and transformation of the building into a heritage centre and business development hub.

The Celebration of Success took place on Thursday 1st December at Enniskillen Workhouse. The historic building has been extensively redeveloped through a collaboration project between South West College and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council. Funding of £2,343,000 was awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to undertake this project, made possible by National Lottery players.

Seven bursary holders and seven Train the Trainer participants completed the Heritage and Education Skills Programme. The students developed heritage and craft skills, and gained accreditation in traditional stone masonry, plastering and joinery.


Commenting at the event, Dr Nicholas O’Shiel South West College Governing Body Chairman said:

“The skill, passion and determination of the students involved in the redevelopment of the Enniskillen Workhouse is clearly evident in the results which are nothing short of astonishing. Our students have used and further developed their existing skills, honed new skills and have showcased an unwavering commitment to achieving the highest possible standards in their craft.”

Bursary Holder Niall Richardson spoke on behalf of all the participants and thanked the programme tutors and employers for a fulfilling and life-changing experience.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Chairman, Cllr Barry McElduff, said:

"I was delighted to attend the Celebration event and to have the opportunity to congratulate those who completed the Heritage, Education and Skills Programme.

Heritage skills and crafts help to connect the past to the present and this training also looks to the future by equipping the next generation with these skills. It is really important to preserve and protect our built heritage.

I am delighted that the students have had the opportunity to use these skills on the Workhouse Project which also creates for them and for all of us a lasting legacy."

Angela Lavin, Senior Investment Manager at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said:

“Thanks to National Lottery players, this project provides students with the opportunity to not only learn about heritage, but to become truly involved in it by learning new skills and contributing to the redevelopment of Enniskillen Workhouse. We know that giving people a chance to have a closer understanding and relationship to their heritage reaps many benefits, and is something we are proud to fund. We wish the students every success in the future as they continue to put their heritage skills into practice.”

Enniskillen Workhouse