A second chance at education

THE fifth annual nationwide Adult Learners’ Festival will take place from next Monday to Friday.

The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) currently offer a two-year full-time certified programme in Ennis, Scariff and Kilrush to long-term unemployed adults and other designated welfare categories. The primary aim of next week’s festival is to mark adult learning and the achievements of adult students, showcase the work of adult education and to ensure that adult education is placed firmly on the political agenda.
THIRTY-year-old Barry McCusker, who is from Tyrone but lives in Killard, Doonbeg, attributes his participation in a number of adult education courses in Kilrush to helping his employment prospects and personal confidence. He had been out of education for 15 years prior to starting a six-week course in Kilrush in 2008.
“It was a six-week introductory course in communications and computers. I found the tutors very relaxed, easy going and helpful. I hadn’t been in education for about 15 years and was nervous about going back. I found the course very easy to deal with,” Barry told The Clare Champion.
He worked in construction in the US for a number of years before returning to Ireland. “The following year I started the full-time course in computers, sociology, art and photography,” he added.
Barry is currently taking is a full-time two-year FETAC Level 5 course in Community Care. The course includes modules in special needs and childcare. That is an area that Barry would be interested in getting involved in full-time, if opportunities arise in the future.
“I would be interested in doing the special needs course to become a special needs assistant. I’m looking towards that direction,” Barry confirmed.
Generally speaking, Barry said the course he is undertaking has afforded him direction and focus. With unemployment rampant these days, he appreciates that he has access to a productive way of filling his days.
“It gets you up in the morning and out. It gets you motivated. There wouldn’t be much else for me to be doing at the minute. It gets you meeting people. There’s good interaction and it’s definitely a confidence builder,” he said.
The Adult Education Centre in Kilrush is located on the Cooraclare Road and can be contacted on 065 9052799.