Students from Mercy College, Woodford, gathered in Coillte’s Lough Key Forest Park, Co. Roscommon – alongside three other schools – for a day of celebration, learning, and fun at the Coillte World of Work 2025 wrap-up event.

It was their third consecutive year taking part, joining a total of 128 students from schools in Kilkenny, Tipperary and Mayo to participate in this year’s World of Work programme.

Coillte’s World of Work programme provides second year students with insights into what it’s like to work in forestry, including the types of roles available, with students visiting a Coillte forest with a Coillte forester to get practical examples of forestry as a career.

Over 60 students from Mercy College, Woodford, have participated over the past four years and enjoyed activities which have introduced them to the working world of Coillte and the diverse roles within the forestry sector.

Through the programme, students from all four schools also learned about the multiple benefits of forests for climate, nature, wood and people and the important role forestry plays in their local community.

Mercy College Principal Angela Ryan said they were delighted that their students had this experience.

“The programme provides young people with a great opportunity to learn about career opportunities and businesses in their local community,” she said.

“Coillte’s World of Work programme connects student with trees and nature, educates them about the benefits of forestry and promotes sustainability,” she added.

Coillte Regional Manager Mark O’Loughlin said they were thrilled to support what he called ‘this superb initiative and give students the chance to learn more about forestry in their local area’.

“We have nine past pupils of Mercy College working with us in Coillte, and we hope this initiative will encourage students to consider forestry as a career in the future,” he added.

Pictured: Second year students from Mercy College, Woodford, who took part in Coillte’s World of Work 2025 programme, pictured at Coillte’s Lough Key Forest Park.