Sonya Duggan, the Director of Kilminchy School House, has been honoured as the Business All-Star Laois Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.
This marks her fourth consecutive year receiving the prestigious Business All-Star recognition, underscoring her remarkable dedication.
Sonya’s commitment extends beyond mere identification of industry challenges; she actively champions and promotes innovative initiatives and solutions.
Her focus is on ensuring that the early years sector not only attracts but also retains exceptional individuals for the present and future.
Her unwavering dedication to this cause serves as both an inspiration and a crucial element for the improvement of education and childcare services.
As the Director of Kilminchy School House, an acclaimed Montessori School in Portlaoise, Sonya has played a pivotal role in creating a nurturing learning environment since the school’s establishment in September 1999.
Geared towards children aged 1–10 years, the school encourages creative exploration of the world through various teaching approaches inspired by Reggio, Steiner, and Forest School methodologies.
The result is a unique, stimulating, and comprehensive learning experience within a top-tier environment.
The success of Kilminchy School House is attributed to its commitment to providing high-quality staff, excellent facilities, and fostering a caring, friendly culture.
Sonya’s passion for Early Years Education and Care is evident, as she serves as a dedicated advocate for Quality and Holistic Education, Equality, and ensuring a level playing field for all providers.
Her enduring impact on the education sector continues to make a significant contribution to the community.
Reacting to the news of her achievement, Kilminchy School House Director, Sonya Duggan said: “I am delighted to receive All-Star Accreditation as Laois Entrepreneur of the Year.
“This is our 4th year to be accredited and on behalf of our whole team in both our schools, we will continue to strive to do our best for our children and parents.
“This accreditation recognises all the hard work we put in to ensure they continue to get the best care and service Kilminchy School House can offer.
“It gives us such a sense of pride and achievement in our work.”
The All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) is an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of Best-in-Class in Irish business.
The Foundation actively engages and supports its network through peer dialogue, collaboration, mentoring and enterprise development activities.
Companies are qualified for accreditation by completing an enterprise audit and are identified by their use of the AIBF’s Business All-Star Marque.
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