Mum of two fulfils goal

Eileen O'Callaghan (46) left school at 13, lured by the freedom of having a paid job. Originally from Cork, she met her husband Eugene in Killarney and the couple were married when she was only 18.

She has been studying at VTOS Killarney with 10 others who had also returned to school to complete their Leaving Cert.

"I had my two boys, William and Sean, then so it wasn't until they grew up that I was able to return to education," said Eileen.

"My husband and sons encouraged me to go back and now I can't believe I've actually got the first exam over with.

"My biggest goal was getting this far and I never thought I would two years ago."

- Majella O'Sullivan

Irish Independent