KCLR is proud to announce the launch of Learning Local, a brand‑new 10‑part radio and podcast series created in close partnership with the Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB). The series airs each Wednesday evening at 7pm, and is designed to give learners of all ages practical guidance, expert insight, and clear pathways through Ireland’s evolving education landscape.
Presented by Úna Ní Mhaoldomhnaigh, teacher and broadcaster, Learning Local explores real issues across the full spectrum of education, from pre‑school to third level, apprenticeships to alternative routes, and key decision points including Junior Cycle, Leaving Cert, CAO applications and more.
Each episode features a mix of expert interviews, lived experiences, and actionable advice, with a strong focus on helping students, parents, adult learners and educators make informed choices.
A Partnership Rooted in Local Impact
The new show is supported by Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) and KCETB’s support is central to the series.
As highlighted in communications between KCLR and KCETB, their involvement ensures listeners receive trusted, high‑quality information directly from those delivering education services across the region.
The first programme featured Dr. Lindsay Malone, newly appointed Chief Executive of KCETB, who introduced the organisation’s role in supporting learners across Kilkenny and Carlow. from post-primary schools and FET colleges to adult literacy, apprenticeships, Youthreach, community education, guidance services and employer‑led training.
“KCETB is proud to support Learning Local, a programme that reflects our core commitment to widening access, strengthening educational confidence and ensuring every learner, and every educator, has the information they need to thrive”, said Dr. Malone ahead of the first broadcast this month.
“By sponsoring this series, we are investing in clear, practical guidance for families and teachers across Carlow and Kilkenny and shining a light on the real pathways and supports available through KCETB. This is exactly the kind of community-focused initiative that helps learners make informed choices and builds a stronger, more connected education system for all.”
KCLR General Manager Pat Gardiner said the station is delighted to collaborate with KCETB on a series that “puts real, usable education information into the hands of people who need it most locally”.
“KCETB expressed appreciation for the dedicated platform, noting its value in helping learners understand the breadth of supports and opportunities available throughout the region.”
What Listeners Can Expect
Across the 2026 season, Learning Local brings practical advice from sector specialists, clear explanations of education pathways, real stories from students and families, weekly resource guides pointing to supports available locally, in‑depth interviews on topics such as nutrition in education, CAO timelines, exam preparation, and alternative learning routes
The show runs for 10 weeks, having started on Wednesday 14 January, continuing on Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm, presented by Úna ní Mhaoldhomhnaigh.
Catch-up episodes are available via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, in the KCLR app, or wherever you do your podcast listening.
