Tá an oibríocht seo á comhchistiú ag Rialtas na hÉireann agus ag an Aontas Eorpach
This operation is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union
Rialtas na hEireann Government of Ireland
Co-Funded by the European Union
Tá an oibríocht seo á comhchistiú ag Rialtas na hÉireann agus ag an Aontas Eorpach
This operation is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union

Adult Literacy Service

What you will find on this page

Adult Literacy Service

The Adult Literacy Service is part of KCETB Further Education and Training. It is made up of a community of adult learners across the counties of Kilkenny and Carlow. Adults wishing to improve their skills or take the first step back into education attend courses or one to one tuition and work a pace that suits them. All classes are free, confidential and supportive.  

We offer part-time courses in: 

  • Reading 
  • Writing 
  • Spelling 
  • Maths 
  • Using computers, tablets, and smartphones 
  • Driver theory 
  • Family Learning 
  • English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) 
  • Skills for Work 
Group of adults photographed at awards
Literaracy Champions

Our courses are always changing to meet the needs of adults and communities and recently we have offered climate, health and financial literacy courses.  Our courses can help you: 

  • Build your skills and confidence  
  • Help your children with their schoolwork  
  • Get a QQI qualification  
  • Take part in your local community  
  • Meet new people and make friends  
  • Move on to further education, training, or employment opportunities 

Literacy for Every Day Life

Literacy is part of everyday life. It affects our well-being and helps us take part in our communities and our workplace. Literacy is not just about reading and writing. It is also about understanding information, communicating with others, and making informed decisions. It includes listening, speaking, and using technology and the internet to find, share, and use information in daily life.

Literacy Affects Us All

In Ireland, many adults find reading, writing, maths, or using technology difficult. About 1 in 5 adults has literacy challenges, and even more struggle with maths.  

Around 1 in 4 adults do not have basic digital skills. These difficulties can make everyday tasks harder, such as filling in forms, managing money, using online services, or accessing information and support. Digital literacy means knowing how to use phones, computers, and the internet in a smart, safe, and responsible way.

Adult grouping holding documents

Adult Literacy for Life Anti-Stigma Research Report

KCETB’s Adult Literacy Service supports the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy by delivering adult literacy programmes across Kilkenny and Carlow, helping adults develop the literacy, numeracy, digital and communication skills they need for everyday life. In addition, KCETB supports the work of the Regional Literacy Coordinator in promoting a joined-up, cross-sectoral approach to improving adult literacy outcomes across the region. 

As part of this work, KCETB is committed to raising awareness of unmet literacy needs and promoting inclusion across communities and services. Through research, collaboration and engagement with learners, stakeholders and partner organisations, we aim to improve understanding of the barriers adults can face and encourage more inclusive practices. 

We are delighted to include our Anti-Stigma Research Booklet, which shares the findings of our research and highlights the importance of challenging stigma associated with unmet Literacy needs. The booklet explores the experiences of learners, showcases positive practice, and encourages organisations and communities to foster more inclusive, supportive and accessible environments for everyone. 

Launch the Adult Literacy for Life Research Project

Adult Literacy for Life Research Project

Exploring perceptions and experience of unmet literacy needs among staff providing services to the public.
Read Here

Learner Testimonials

My experience of the service has been extremely positive; for the first time, I realised that there was a world of learning opportunities available to me as an adult to help me improve my literacy skills. My learning journey with the Adult Literacy Service was completely different from my experience of school. As an adult learner, I felt that I belonged, that I had ownership of my learning and that we were all equal. The Tutors were interested in me as a person and wanted me to enjoy learning, build my confidence and develop my potential. I feel safe, included, connected and supported, both by the Tutors and the other adult learners in my group.
Martina Kiely
Adult Learner, KCETB Adult Learning Service

Getting in Touch with Us

Contact the Team

Adult Literacy Organisers in your area 

Barbara Behan (Kilkenny)

Adult Learning Service

43 Upper Patrick Street, Kilkenny

R95 PXN2

Tel: 056 776 3149

Tara Kelly (Carlow)

Adult Learning Service

Tullow Road, Carlow

R93 R2P0

Tel: 059 913 5544

Regional Literacy Co-ordinator 

Deirdre Geoghegan 

Unit 10 Danville Business Park, Ring Road, Kilkenny  

R95 W293 

Tel: 087 767 5547 

Email: deirdre.geoghegan@kcetb.ie  

Learners writing at a desk
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