Averil Rafferty

Background

About Averil Rafferty

Hi, I'm Averil Rafferty, a dedicated and passionate educator with over 15 years of experience working with learners of all ages. My focus lies in community work related to reducing inequalities, and I've consistently worked with lesser heard communities and/or in the realm of environmental education. I earned my BA in Education from Dublin Institute of Technology (now known as Technical University of Dublin), a Certificate in Adult Education from City & Guilds, Dublin, a Certificate in Organic Horticulture from The Organic College, Limerick, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation for Sustainability from University College Dublin. My professional journey began at Focus Ireland, where I served as a Project Worker, supporting parents and children who had previously been homeless. I then moved to Barnardos, working as Childcare Worker to support families in temporary and purpose-built halting sites. Later, I joined Saint Vincent de Paul as a Children's Centre Manager, where I set up and managed a busy center catering to children aged 2 to 9 years old. At St Michael's House, I worked as a Home Teacher, supporting parents of young children with moderate learning disabilities as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Afterward, I spent some time as an Adult Educator at the Irish Preschool & Playgroup Association, training groups of adults in FETAC level 5 Child Psychology and Early Years Education. In 2010, I founded Peas & Pods Market, a monthly market for homemade and sustainable childcare products, before selling my share in the company to focus on my family. Following a career break to care for my children, I returned to work as a Trainer at the Health Service Executive, facilitating groups of HSE staff to improve client interactions. At Kippure Estate, I served as an Outdoor Geography Instructor for leaving certificate students, leading groups of teens in environmental learning activities in nature. Most recently, I have worked at The Rediscovery Centre, first as an Education Officer developing and delivering workshops on sustainability and the circular economy, and now as the Training Coordinator for the ECCO project, organizing and facilitating community circular climate action training projects across Ireland. Throughout my career, I have been an integral part of my local Resident's Association, managing environmental funding proposals and social media. I am excited to continue making a difference in the lives of learners and communities, and I welcome new challenges that help me grow as an educator and a professional. Let's Connect!