Award Win for Tipperary school opens real pathways to employment for students

The impact of winning a County Tipperary Chamber Business Award was evident last week as Chamber CEO Michelle Aylward visited Scoil Chormaic in Cashel to see first-hand how recognition is strengthening confidence, responsibility and real pathways to employment for students.

Earlier this year, the Knockanrawley Workability Project, led by Evelyn Nevin, was announced as the 2025 winner of the Diversity & Inclusion Award, sponsored by MSD, at the County Tipperary Chamber Business Awards. The 2025 Awards were supported by main sponsor Carey Glass.

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The award recognised the project’s long-standing commitment to supporting people with additional needs into education, training and employment. Established in 1991 and based in Tipperary Town, the Workability Project operates on a simple belief: ability comes first.

A key part of the initiative is its partnership with Scoil Chormaic. Through the school lunch bag programme, nine students are involved in structured, workplace-style responsibilities within a supported environment.

Students maintain records, complete temperature checks, organise rotas, coordinate lunch deliveries and ensure the kitchen space is cleaned and maintained to standard. These are real responsibilities. They require consistency, teamwork and accountability.

The programme has led to clear improvements in confidence, social interaction and employability skills.

It provides a practical first step towards future employment while also demonstrating to employers that young people with additional needs are capable of fulfilling responsible roles when provided with the right supports.

During the visit, Michelle Aylward observed students carefully recording information, managing deliveries and working collaboratively as a team. The pride in participation was clear.

When Evelyn Nevin spoke to the students about what the award meant, there was real emotion in the room.

The recognition was not simply about winning.

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It was about validation.

It affirmed that the work being carried out every day matters and that the effort shown by each student is recognised beyond the school.

“This award was given for measurable impact,” said Michelle Aylward.

“What I saw was young people being trusted with responsibility and rising to it. The confidence and pride on display was deeply moving.”

The County Tipperary Chamber Business Awards continue to recognise organisations delivering meaningful social and economic impact across the county.

As demonstrated at Scoil Chormaic, winning strengthens belief, builds credibility and supports genuine opportunity for the future.