Press release 24/4/2026
Killeedy Preschool Committee Nominated for Newstalk Changemaker Business Awards in Association with FBD Insurance
Killeedy Preschool Committee is delighted to be named as a finalist for the prestigious Newstalk Changemaker Awards in the FBD Local Business category.
Just three years ago, six local parents came, — Maura Cremin, Eileen Deely, Laura McEnery, Timothy Mulcahy, Teresa Nash Casey, Noreen O'Mahony— together when the closure of Ashford Preschool, as it was then known, became imminent. Faced with rising costs, the private provider had little option but to step away. In response, Killeedy Preschool Committee CLG was formed in a determined effort to save this vital community service.
The preschool plays an essential role within the local area, serving families primarily from Ashford and Raheenagh. Over the years, it has been instrumental in preparing children for their transition into local primary schools. The service also welcomes children from neighbouring communities including Broadford, Feohanagh, Castlemahon, Monagea, and beyond.
Community support has been central to the success of both the preschool and the afterschool service. From fundraising initiatives to hands-on help with building works, painting, maintenance, and more, the collective effort has been invaluable.
Caroline Walsh, Manager of Killeedy Preschool and Afterschool, leads a dedicated team, including Ann Marie, Jessica, and Ludmila. Together, they foster a nurturing and engaging environment, with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning and innovative, play-based experiences.
In September last year, the committee, staff, and wider community celebrated a major milestone with the purchase of the Old Girls’ School building, securing a permanent home for the service for years to come.
To keep this momentum going, we have recently expanded our committee and are proud to have Laura McEnery, Teresa Nash Casey, Maura Cremin, Noreen O'Mahony, Claire Barry, Margaret Curtin, Rachael Crowley, Vanessa Danaher, and Patrick Breen working together to support and guide the service.
Killeedy Preschool Committee are a voluntary committee operating a not for profit service. All proceeds of fundraisers and profits are reinvested directly into the service and community.
A limited number of ECCE-funded places are available for September. For more information, please visit www.killeedypreschool.com.
The winners of the Newstalk Changemaker Awards will be announced at a ceremony in the Mansion House, Dublin, on May 20th. Being named finalists is a tremendous honour to be recognised and considered for this award, and a proud moment for everyone involved with Killeedy Preschool. Killeedy Preschool Committee is the only finalist from the early childcare sector and is honored to present the sector at the awards.
A number of members of Killeedy Preschool Committee and team
(L to R) Ann Marie Copse, Caroline Walsh (manager), Maura Cremin, Laura McEnery, Noreen O’Mahony, Teresa Nash Casey, Jessica Carr, Eileen Deely, Ludmila Ueda