Georgia-May Staunton, Youthreach NGGS graduate, interviewed in Irish Independent

Taken from an interview with Georgia-May in the Irish Independent on Friday 22nd August 2025,

"Finding Your Way Back To Education"

Due to poor heath, Georgia-May Staunton left secondary school in 5^th year, and after a year or so was interested in continuing her education. She contacted Youthreach North Great Georges Street Coordinator, Gerard Lawless, who told her there was a place here for her when she wanted it. At first, she was unsure, but when she did join, everything started to change. She realised she wasn’t alone and felt understood and welcomed.

“Youthreach allowed me to learn not only through books, but more importantly, through real life experiences and opportunities” and she says the experience was incredible.

With the support of the staff, Georgia-May completed a two year QQI Level 4 course in one year. She says her highlight was in 2023, when she was awarded the City of Dublin ETB Lord Mayor’s Award, which she says “acknowledged my efforts both in and outside of the classroom”.

Georgia-May’s time in Youthreach NGGS led her to the QQI Level 5 in Criminology, Law and Social Studies at Ballsbridge College, and she has applied to study Psychology at Trinity College Dublin.

To other early school leavers or someone thinking of getting back into learning/education, Georgia-May says “Do it! The traditional route isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t capable or intelligent enough to learn. There are so many open doors along the way, and you just need to find one to suit you, your talents and your needs. I know Youthreach NGGS would be more than happy to accommodate anyone”.

Georgia-May is proud that she has been through a lot, but is strong enough to fight the toughest of fights and “anything is possible if you believe in yourself and have a good support system”.