The AONTAS Star Awards recognise the dedication and impact of adult learning initiatives from across the island of Ireland. The annual awards ceremony is a wonderful occasion that celebrates adult learners and adult educators showcasing the essential contribution of adult and community education to our society at a local, regional and national level.
As last year’s winner Nora Maddock, from The Rediscovery Centre says ‘The STAR Awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate amazing people across Ireland who are dedicated to lifelong learning and creating opportunities in their communities’.
OCN is proud to sponsor the Social Inclusion Award, which recognises adult learning initiatives that promote inclusion and create opportunities for learners who may face barriers to participation.
Any initiative, no matter how large or small can be nominated, if it supports adult learners and is related to one of these categories:
The AONTAS Star Awards are an excellent opportunity to:
The AONTAS team will support you throughout your STAR Awards journey. The online nomination platform will close on Friday 30th October 2026 at 5pm.
The STAR Awards Nomination page is filled with resources and video tutorials to help you complete your nomination.
Submit your nomination before the closing date of the 30th of October 2026 at 5pm.
Shortlisted initiatives will be announced in January and will meet our judges in-person in February.
All shortlisted STAR Awards initiatives will join together in Croke Park in March 2027 for a unique celebration of adult and community education.
Connect with AONTAS’ Membership & Digital Engagement Officer directly at [email protected] if you have any queries.
