LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023

Clara

Clara

Clara

COURSE PROSPECTUS 2022 – 2023

Excellence through Education and Training

Clara Courses

Clara

ADULT LITERACY EDUCATION Literacy Classes (Adult Literacy)....................................................5 Reading Circle (Adult Literacy) .......................................................5 Bicycle Maintenance and Safety ....................................................6 English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)............................6

Clara

YOUTHREACH PROGRAMME Level 3 Employability Skills.............................................................7 QQI Level 4 General Learning .........................................................8 TRAINEESHIPS Healthcare Support Clara (QQI Level 5)........................................ 10 RTITB Forklift Operator(QQI Level 5) ............................................ 11 COMMUNITY EDUCATION Conversational French................................................................. 12 Painting for Beginners ................................................................. 12 Horticulture ................................................................................ 13 Introduction to Haircare............................................................... 14 Staying Connected ...................................................................... 15 FURTHER INFORMATION Apprenticeships.......................................................................... 17 Enterprise Support...................................................................... 19 What is AEGIS?............................................................................ 21 Adult Literacy..............................................................................23 Community Education.................................................................24 Grants, Funding and Programmes................................................26

Centre Manager: Tracy Phelan River Street, Clara, Co. Offaly • 057 9330794 • clarafet@loetb.ie

Welcome

I

am very pleased to welcome you to Clara FETC. We are ideally located in the heart of Clara town. We provide range of quality educational programmes and supports, designed to meet the needs of young people and adults throughout Clara and the surrounding areas.

Our Youthreach programme is aimed at early school leavers. We offer our Youthreach students qualifications at QQI level 3 Employability Skills and QQI level 4 General Learning.

We also provide a range of certified and non-certified courses to adults in the area. All our courses are centered around the learning requirements of our students whilst providing a safe, holistic, and inclusive environment.

So, whether you are interested in a short hobby course, or you would like to work towards formal qualifications, Clara FETC may have a course to suit you.

I hope you will all get involved in the Centre’s activities as this participation is a great way of getting to know other learners in the Centre with similar interests.

Finally, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding any of our courses.

I wish you every success for the future.

Tracy Phelan Centre Manager

ADULT LITERACY EDUCATION

CLARA

Literacy Classes (Adult Literacy) These classes are designed to assist with reading, writing and spelling in small groups and one-to-one. From formal letters to emails, this course will give learners confidence in their abilities.

Entry Requirements None

Who should apply for this course?

If you are an adult learner looking to improve your reading, writing and/or spelling, this course is ideal for you.

Duration 1-2 hours per week

Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie

Cost None

What will I study? (Modules) • Reading everyday items • Comprehension of important documents • Writing and responding to emails and letters

Reading Circle (Adult Literacy) Reading is an important life skill but it can also be a fantastic hobby. Reading helps focus the mind, clear your head and improve your memory. Join our reading workshops to develop your reading skills and link in with other adults looking to make reading into an enjoyable hobby.

Who should apply for this course?

This course is for adults interested in improving their reading skills and socialise with other adults through reading.

Entry Requirements None Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1 Morning/Afternoon/Evening every week Cost None

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 5

ADULT LITERACY EDUCATION

CLARA

Bicycle Maintenance and Safety In this course families will learn how to maintain their bikes. They will also cover safety while using a bike on the road and use of safety equipment. Safety pack available on completion of this course.

Who should apply for this course?

Families who want to upskill in bike repair, maintenance and safety.

Entry Requirements None Contact Sophie Flanagan on 085 2502590 or email learninghub@loetb.ie Duration September 2022–May 2023 Part-Time Cost None

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) PROGRESSION FOCUSED The ESOL programme offers adult learners an opportunity to develop the language skills needed for living in Ireland. The aim is to engage learners in developing English language skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Who should apply for this course?

People who what to learn English or improve their basic English language skills.

What will I learn?

• Reading English.

• Speaking English.

• Writing English.

• Listening and understanding.

PROGRESSION FOCUSED Page 6 | LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023

Entry Requirements No formal education or qualifications are required. Applicants should have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.

Contact Learning Hub on 057 8661338 or email learninghub@loetb.ie Duration September 2022–May 2023 Part-Time Cost None

QQI LEVEL 3

CLARA

Level 3 Employability Skills PLSS / FETCH Reference: 345155

As part of our Youthreach programme, the Employability Skills course will enable the learner to develop the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to use a range of skills and tools, under direction and with limited autonomy, related to seeking employment or in employment. It enables the learner develop personal qualities and strengths to make informed choices to pursue a range of employment opportunities or to progress to further education or training.

Who should apply for this course?

If you are an early school leaver, aged between 15 and 20 without a Junior Cert and looking to further your education, this is the course for you!

You will develop excellent life skills, focused on practical subjects and disciplines to prepare you for employment and further education.

Entry Requirements Students must be aged between 15 and 20 and have left school early.

Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1-2 Years Award Title, Level and Code Employability Skills, Level 3 Course Code: 3M0935 Cost No cost

What will I study? (Modules) All our modules are QQI Certified Level 3. They include: • Career Preparation • Communications • Mathematics • Art • Gardening • Word Processing • Computer Literacy Progression Options • Progression to our Level 4 General Learning course in the same centre • Direct Employment • Progression to vocational courses at Level 3 and 4 PROGRESSION FOCUSED EMPLOYMENT FOCUSED LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 7

QQI LEVEL 4

CLARA

QQI Level 4 General Learning PLSS / FETCH Reference: 345147

As part of our Youthreach Programme, a Major Award in General Learning will enable the learner to develop the relevant knowledge, skill and competence in a broad range of personal skills which enable personal development and active citizenship, and progression to employment, or further education or training.

Who should apply for this course?

If you are an early school leaver, aged between 15 and 20, and want to continue your education, this course is for you! Our goal is to give all learners practical, real-world life skills that will help you adapt to the working world by offering excellent work experience opportunities, career-planning guidance and chances to progress directly to employment.

What will I study? (Modules) • Career Planning • Plant Identification • Communications • Word Processing • Painting • Functional Mathematics • Workplace Safety • Enterprise Skills Progression Options • Direct Employment • Progression to vocational courses at Level 4 and 5.

PROGRESSION FOCUSED EMPLOYMENT FOCUSED

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Entry Requirements Applicants must be aged between 15-20 and have left school early. You must have also received a Junior Certificate/Junior Cycle Certificate of Achievement.

Applicants without a Junior Cert may apply for our Level 3 Employability Skills course.

Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1-2 Years Award Title, Level and Code General Learning, Level 4 Course Code: 4M2010 Cost None

LEARNER TESTIMONIALS ‘My first day in Youthreach I remember it like it was yesterday. I was waiting inside the door because I didn’t know where to go but the teachers was very nice and respectful.

The teachers treated me like a man not just a child like in school, Youthreach was a very pleasant place, and I really enjoyed my time here. I have passed my level 3 and 4. Thank God for the teachers being here for me in Youthreach they really helped me grow up I was very childish and shy when I first started, now when I look back I can see the massive changes. I would recommend Clara FET to anybody who needs extra help or people that school is not for because Youthreach will guide you into the right path. Now that I’m leaving Youthreach, I can see the massive change and it is a good change and they helped me along the way. Youthreach is a very chilled place, and the students are all friendly to each other.’

John Allan Ward

‘Why Youthreach? I was often asked why I had chosen to leave school and go to Youthreach. School wasn’t the right place for me. The environment wasn’t suited for me, but Youthreach was different in so many ways. All students and teachers were equal, they treated me like an adult and not like a child. They were more like my friends than my teachers and I learned so much from them in my classes and about life in general. I never thought I’d ever do anything with my life but now with help and encouragement I got from my teachers I’m now doing my level 5 in healthcare and I’m hoping to follow down this route. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them. Joining Youthreach was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Margaret Taylor Ward

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 9

TRAINEESHIP

CLARA

RTITB Forklift Operator (Full Time) Fetchcourses.ie Reference 335919

The aim of the Special Purpose Award in Warehouse Operations is to enable the learner acquire the knowledge, skill and competence to operate effectively and safely as an operative in a warehousing and or logistic environment under direction.

Why should I apply for this course?

Participants will be trained in the basics of Warehouse Operations. Skills include Forklift and Powered Pallet truck operation as well as the day to day theory and administration associated with a busy Logistics operation. Typical roles achievable upon completion of this course include Goods Inwards clerk, Dispatcher, Inventory Controller, Order Picker / Selector, Forklift Driver, Packer, Warehouse Operative.

What will I study? (Modules) • Warehousing (5N2725) QQI • RTITB - Forklift Reach Operator Certificate • RTITB - Forklift Counterbalance Operator Certificate • RTITB Power Pallet Truck Electric Pallet / Stacker Truck • Career Planning & Job Seeking Skills • Safepass • Manual Handling Progression Options On successful completion of the Special Purpose Award in Warehouse Operations learners will be able to demonstrate a broad knowledge of warehousing operations including forklift operations, customer service and health and safety in a warehousing or logistics environment.

Successful graduates will be able to seek employment in a warehousing or logistics environment at an operative level.

PROGRESSION FOCUSED EMPLOYMENT FOCUSED

Page 10 | LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023

Entry Requirements • Education: Learners accessing this course leading to this special purpose award must have achieved an award at least one level below that listed or equivalent.

• Aptitude: Good numeracy and literacy skills essential.

• Previous Experience: Some experience in the area of warehousing or logistics desirable but not essential.

Contact Tracy Phelan on 085 8773756/ 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 30 weeks Award Title, Level and Code 5S5833 Warehouse Operations Cost Free of charge for eligible participants. Training allowances payable. Childcare may be provided for eligible participants

TRAINEESHIP

CLARA

Healthcare Support (Full Time) Fetchcourses.ie Reference: 360562

This programme is ideal for those wishing to pursue a career in the Healthcare Sector. Learners will work towards the QQI Level 5 Award in Healthcare Support through practical experiential learning complemented by extensive work placement. The programme is designed to enable the learner to develop the knowledge, skill and competencies to work as part of a multidisciplinary team in the provision of effective and appropriate healthcare supports to clients in a variety of settings, recognising clients individual needs, assisting with activities of daily living and maintaining a safe and hygienic healthcare environment.

Why should I apply for this course?

You will learn to: • Demonstrate techniques for the safe moving and handling of people, placing emphasis on the individuals comfort, the safety of the worker and the use of leg muscles instead of the back.

• Work effectively in a care setting and promote good practice and respect for diversity in lifestyle, religion and culture in care work.

• Care for clients in a safe and hygienic environment using best practice guidelines.

• Describe the requirements relevant to safety & health at work. Explain regulations to include acts & legislation and responsibilities.

• Describe the roles of the authority, personal safety & health awareness. Identify and complete documentation relating to safety & health at work.

Identify of risks and hazards in the control of infection & contamination.

• Describe first aid, safety & fire awareness, manual handling, VDUs, workstations & signage.

• Demonstrate practical activities relating the promotion of safety and health at work. Work in an organisation or specific vocational context, carrying out vocationally related tasks over a period of time, independently while under general supervision.

• Plan and achieve realistic work goals.

Entry Requirements • Education: Applicants must have achieved a minimum of a QQI Level 4 Major Award or its equivalent.

• Aptitude: Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential, including verbal and written command of the English language.

• Previous Experience: Applicants should, where possible, have some previous experience working in a care environment. This exposure will help to establish an applicants suitability for Healthcare as an occupation.

Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 15 weeks Award Title, Level and Code QQI level 5 in Healthcare Suppport Cost Free of charge for eligible participants. Training allowances payable. Childcare may be provided for eligible participants

What will I study? (Modules) • Care Skills 5N2770 • Care of the Older Person 5N2706 • Infection Prevention & Control 5N3734 PROGRESSION FOCUSED EMPLOYMENT FOCUSED LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 11

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

CLARA

Conversational French (Community Education) Learning a foreign language is an excellent skill in the modern world. If you’ve always wanted to brush up on your French or learn it from scratch, why not sign up for our course?

Who should apply for this course?

If you are an adult learner looking to learn basic French to make your way around France, this course is for you. There is also an option of studying for an accredited QQI Level 5 Minor award in French to expand on your learning and grow your skillset.

Entry Requirements None Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 2 hours per week for 6 weeks Cost None

What will I study? (Modules) Speaking Everyday French | Writing in French Introduction to French Grammar French History and Culture Progression Options • Progressing to an Accredited QQI Level 5 Minor award • French is a modern language and is a welcome addition to anyone’s skillset.

PROGRESSION FOCUSED

Painting for Beginners (Community Education) Painting for beginners aims to reach out to the local community, encourage people to reconnect and increase general sense of well-being through connection and creativity. This course in painting also aims to introduce basic skills and knowledge of painting developing creative confidence.

Who should apply for this course?

This course is for adults interested in learning how to paint and develop creative confidence.

What will I study? (Modules) • Explore artistic elements and colour theory • Explore basic brush strokes and techniques • Apply colour theory knowledge • Develop and render paintings • Present artwork and evaluate process of personal learning.

Page 12 | LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023

Entry Requirements None Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1 Morning every week Cost None

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

CLARA

Horticulture (Community Education) Tending for your own garden can be a great meditative practice and also help promote sustainability in your local ecosystem. To learn more on how to grow, cultivate and maintain a wide variety of plants and vegetables, sign up for our Horticulture course.

Who should apply for this course?

This course is for adults interested in learning how to care for plants and grow vegetables.

Entry Requirements None Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1 Morning every week Cost None

What will I study? (Modules) Plant identification | Plant care and cultivation

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 13

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

CLARA

Introduction to Haircare (Community Education) This course will introduce learners to the knowledge and skills that are required to understand and practice basic haircare.

Learners will develop basic skills in areas such as shampooing, conditioning, blow-drying, upstyling and the use of dressing aids for special occasions. This course can help to enhance the personal care and appearance of the learner and is useful as a preparation for possible future training in hairdressing.

Why should I apply for this course?

• develop learners’ knowledge of hair and hair analysis • familiarise learner with the range of products and equipment used in haircare • provide opportunities for learner to practise basic haircare skills and procedures • familiarise learners with current hair styles, up style trends and fashions • develop learners’ awareness of professional haircare services available • enable learners to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to improving their own personal presentation

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Entry Requirements None Contact Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1 Morning every week Cost None

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

CLARA

Staying Connected (Community Education) Beginners guide to staying connected and improving digital skills This course is designed to help learners develop their knowledge and skills to enable them to stay connected with friends and family worldwide through the use of a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Keep up to date with what is happening in the world around you and build confidence and independence by learning where to access information online.

Entry Requirements None Paul or Tracy on 057 9330794 or email clarafet@loetb.ie Duration 1 Morning every week Cost None

Why should I apply for this course?

• greater confidence in using their smartphone/ tablet/mobile device • connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or using your mobile data • send and receive email • video call and online chat using social apps such as WhatsApp • browse the internet to research information on sites such as Citizens Information, shop online and bank online, motor tax online.

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 15

APPRENTICESHIP

LOETB is responsible for the administration and management of the apprenticeship programme within Laois and Offaly.

Apprenticeship is a recognised means by which people are trained whilst leading to rewarding careers, with learning grounded in the practical experience of undertaking a real job.

Apprenticeships in Ireland are: • Industry-led by consortia of industry and education partners • Lead to an award at Levels 5 to 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) • Between 2-4 years in duration • Minimum 50% on-the-job learning • Flexible delivery – online, blended, off-the-job learning in increment/blocks • Apprentices are employed under a formal contract of apprenticeship* • *For apprenticeships in place prior to 2016 the State pays a training allowance to apprentices during off-the-job training phases.

An apprentice can ‘earn and learn’ on the job.

Craft apprentices generally comprise of seven phases, three off-the-job and four on-the-job and normally take a minimum of 4 years.

CONTACT Sandra Doyle, Senior Training Advisor T: 085 8598413 • E: sdoyle@loetb.ie Mary Leech, Senior Training Advisor T: 087 1463092 • E: mleech@loetb.ie Caroline Spollen, Senior Training Advisor T: 085 2541789 • E: cspollen@loetb.ie Michelle Tierney, Apprenticeship Services Manager T: 057 9339632 • E: mtierney@loetb.ie www.loetb.ie/apprenticeships

MAMF apprentice Reece Seery awarded a Certificate of Excellence in the World Skills Ireland National Competition What type of apprenticeships are on offer?

There are 25 craft trades available in four industry sectors: • Construction • Electrical • Engineering • Motor New Occupational Apprenticeships are a minimum of 2 years, ranging from Levels 5-9, and have been proposed by the Apprenticeship Council in response to demand for skills in a range of industry sectors including: • Biopharma • Finance • Hospitality • ICT • Insurance • Property Services Full list of all apprenticeships and details on eligibility criteria for each apprenticeship visit www.apprenticeship.ie LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 17

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Enterprise Support Programmes:

LOETB provide a range of professional qualifications and short flexible programmes. These programmes can be tailored to your organisation’s needs.

Digitalisation

LOETB provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors. It aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to the changing job market.

Build the perfect package for your business needs Working closely with micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME), LOETB helps employers identify skills needs and invest in their workforce by providing highly subsidised education and training to staff.

•

ECDL

•

Microsoft Office Skills

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Digital Marketing

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Industrial Electrical Systems

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Computer Aided Draughting

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BIM

Sustainability •

NZEB Fundamental Awareness

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NZEB Retrofit

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NZEB Ventilation

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NZEB Site Supervisor

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Certified Passive House Tradesperson

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Retrofit Insulation Skills

Advance your career with our wide range of professional qualifications.

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External Wall Insulation

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Domestic Heat Pumps

Validate your experience and gain certification through our professional and industry recognised qualifications.

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Solar PV

•

Lean Management

Corporate training packages and bespoke training solutions are available for organisations that have ten or more employees.

These training courses can be delivered in-house, off-site in our state-of-the-art facilities or through blended learning. All programmes are delivered by highly qualified, experienced trainers who are experts in their field.

Qualifications

Short Courses

Explore our growing range of short courses to meet your business needs.

Business •

Personal Development

Choose from a wide range of Short Courses that are aimed at those who want to increase their expertise across all industries and areas to include digitalisation, Sustainable and Green business.

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Train the Trainer

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Supervisory Management

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Conflict Management

Webinars and workshops

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Change in Workplace

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Leadership

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Human Resource Management

Explore our range of webinars and interactive workshops that will be delivered and hosted by industry experts. These webinars will keep you and your staff up to date with issues facing industry, current trends, and opportunities.

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 19

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Enterprise Support Testimonials “Buildings in the developed world consume 70% of total electricity production so Chadwicks Group are in a unique position, as a building materials provider, to help our customers build energy efficient, sustainable homes. To ensure our colleagues have the most up to date product knowledge we have launched a comprehensive learning program for relevant functions across the business. The first course in this program is NZEB Fundamentals which was delivered by Bebhinn Kennedy in The National Construction Training Centre, Mount Lucas. The course itself was a combination of class room learning and practical work all delivered in the excellent facilities at Mount Lucas. The course was informative and engaging, covering everything from NZEB principles to different types of renewable energy. The practical workshop allowed Chadwicks Group colleagues to get an in-depth understanding of the range of products available along with varying specifications between brands. This course has been attended by many functions across our business including commercial, marketing and sales- all of whom have reported positive feedback for both the facilities and the team delivering the training.”

Austin Nevin | Trading Director Heating & Plumbing Chadwicks Group

“It has been a real pleasure to work with LOETB who have delivered two successful programmes of upskilling for Shaws.

Aideen and the colleagues are dedicated, attentive and accommodating.

The courses, which were tailored to our specific needs, have been well received by our staff and management and will help shape the future of Shaws. We look forward to furthering our relationship with LOETB in 2022.”

Triona Quinlan Director of People and Culture Shaws Department Stores

To discuss your training needs please contact: Jolene Hall Enterprise Engagement Officer M: 085 2539167 E: Jhall@loetb.ie

Aideen Poole Enterprise Engagement Officer M: 087 1777879 E: Apoole@loetb.ie

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Bebhinn Kennedy Enterprise Engagement Officer M: 085 8049519 E: Bkennedy@loetb.ie

Adult Educational Guidance and Information Service

ICONS ICONS

& &

S OCI AL S OCI AL

Laois AEGIS 057 8672963 • laoisinfohub@loetb.ie Offaly AEGIS 057 9351506 • offalyinfohub@loetb.ie

ME DI A ME DI A

LO GO S LO GO S

F O R F O R

BU SI N E SS BU SI N E SS

CARD CARD

LOETB Adult Guidance loetb_adultguidance

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Adult Literacy Service Literacy is a form of power. It offers opportunities in the world.

The Adult Literacy Service provides free and confidential group classes and one-to-one tuition for adults who wish to improve their reading, writing, spellings, maths or basic computer skills. We provide classes for Speakers of other languages, driver theory and family learning.

The LOETB Adult Literacy Service provides support in the following areas:

English and Communication

Everyday Numeracy/Maths

We provide a range of reading, writing and spelling courses including: • One to one tuition • Small Group Literacy Classes • Book Club • Spelling and Grammar • Reading and Writing • Driver Theory and Literacy Support • Communications (QQI Level 3) • Leaving Certificate English

We provide basic part-time numeracy / maths courses • One to one tuition • Small Group Maths Classes • Games based Maths Class • Everyday Maths • Maths through Cookery, Horticulture, Woodwork and Electrical Skills • Maths (QQI Level 3)

Basic Computers / Digital Skills

Family Learning

We provide part-time basic computer courses • Absolute Beginner Computers – (Touch, Type, Read, Spell) • Beginners Computers • Computer Skills - Level 2 • Using Technology – Level 2 • Word Processing – Level 3 • Excel (Spreadsheets) – Level 3 • Internet and Email – Level 3 • Desktop Publishing – Level 3 • Digital Media – Level 3 • Digital Photography – Level 3

We provide family learning courses • Cookery • Story Telling and Art for Children and Parents (Story-sacks) • Green Families • Horticulture • Start from the Heart – Trauma Informed Learning • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 23

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Adult Literacy Service Workplace Basic Education / Return to Education We can provide courses in all literacy areas that can help with basic workplace education. Our level 3 return to education programmes provide a steppingstone to further studies. Courses offered include: • QQI Level 3 -Introduction to Childcare • QQI Level 3 -Employability Skills including Maths, Communications and Retail Skills • QQI Level 3 - General Learning including Personal Effectiveness, Personal and Interpersonal Skills, Career preparation, Planting and Potting, Plant Propagation, Art and Design, Pyrography, Craft, Sewing, Blowdrying, Basin Skills, Woodwork, Drawing, Bread, Pastry and Desserts, Nutrition and Healthy Eating, Health and Fitness.

• QQI Level 3 – Science and Engineering, Electrical Skills, Maths, Electronics

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) We provide English Classes to Speakers of Other Languages. Assessment is carried out prior to placement to ensure learners are placed in a suitable class.

Levels offered include: • Absolute Beginners • Beginners • Elementary • Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking (QQI Level 2) • Pre-Intermediate • ESOL (QQI Level 3) • Communications (QQI Level 3)

The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is used to describe qualifications in the Irish education and training system.

Contact LOETB Adult Literacy Laois Adult Literacy Service Offaly Adult Literacy Service Ann Shields Marina O’Malley 085 8760327

057 9349444 ashields@loetb.ie momalley@loetb.ie LOETB Information Hub, Tullamore FET Centre, Unit 1, Lyster Square, Castle Buildings, Tara Street, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.

Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

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Community Training Local Training Initiatives

Local Training Initiatives are community based training programmes funded under Youth Guarantee, hence trainees are primarily under 35 years of age. The duration of the programmes vary and a training allowance is paid while attending the programme. LOETB funds the programme providers such as Offaly Local Development Company (OLDC), Offaly Traveller Movement (OTM) and Youth Work Ireland Laois (YWIL). Currently there are two LTIs in operation – OLDC Skills for Employment in Edenderry and OTM Skills for Life in Tullamore.

Further information on these courses may be found under the relevant areas in this brochure.

Community Training Centre

Tullamore Community Training Centre provides training for early school leavers aged primarily from 16 to 21 years. Currently programmes on offer include VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Hair and Beauty Services, VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Barbering Studies, QQI Level 3 Major Award in Employability Skills, VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality and Professional Cookery, QQI Level 4 Major Award in Pathways to Employment (Childcare) and QQI Level 3 Major Award in Engineering and Woodcraft. Further information on these courses may be found under the relevant areas in this brochure.

Specialist Training Providers (National Learning Network)

Providers (STPs) primarily cater for unemployed people with disabilities, in receipt of a disability payment, or those who are deemed to require the additional supports that only an STP can provide. The duration of programmes vary depending on need. Courses offered include Kick Start (General, Retail Skills, Office Skills and Catering), Employer Based Training and Transitions in NLN Portlaoise and Employer Based Training, Fresh Start, Office Technology Skills, Sport and Recreation and Transitions in NLN Tullamore. Further information on these courses may be found in the relevant areas in this brochure.

LOETB funds and monitors the community training provision across Laois and Offaly.

For information on any community training programme, please contact: Emma Gilchreest on 085 856 4557 • Email: egilchreest@loetb.ie

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 25

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Grants, Funding & Programmes Student Grant (SUSI)

This means test student grant is available to students who are progressing to a full-time QQI Level 5/6 Award or equivalent, and who have not previously studied an award at similar or higher level on the National Framework of Qualifications. The amount of the grant depends on family income and on the distance a student travels from their place of residence to the college. Student Grant applications can be made online only to Student Universal Support Ireland {SUSI) through www.susi.ie. Applications can be made from April and should be made before starting a course. Further information is available on www.studentfinance.ie or www.citizensinformation.ie

Back To Education Allowance (BTEA)

The BTEA is an allowance from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection {DEASP) to allow eligible applicants to participate in education while remaining on a Social Welfare payment. Eligible applicants are paid BTEA instead of their Jobseekers or other allowance or benefit - more information is available on www.welfare.ie.

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS)

The VTOS scheme provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. Applicants must be aged over 21 years of age and in receipt of Social Welfare payment for at least 156 days before commencement of course. VTOS is aimed in particular at unemployed people who are early school leavers. Successful applicants can receive a VTOS payment for the duration of their course instead of their social welfare payment. They may be able to avail of additional supports including childcare support and small meal and travel allowances. Books and course materials may also be provided.

Back To Education Initiative (BTEI}

BTEI courses are provided to people aged 16+ who have left full-time education and meet at least one of the following criteria: • Have less than upper second level education {Leaving Certificate) • Have a medical card, or are the dependent of a medical card holder • Are in receipt of a social welfare payment (e.g. Jobseeker Allowance/ Benefit, one Parent Family Payment, Cares Allowance, Disability Allowance, etc.).

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CLARA

Post Leaving Certificate (PLC)

PLC Programmes are full-time courses open to students who have just completed the Leaving Certificate, or any person wishing to return to Further Education. They offer a mixture of ‘hands-on’ practical work, academic subjects and work experience, and are designed as a step towards skilled employment or progression to third level. Successful students may apply to third level programmes at Institutes of Technology and Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme. There may be additional costs on some courses for materials, uniforms, etc. Learners may be eligible to apply for the SUSI grant or the Back to Education Allowance. All fees must be paid before commencement of the programme.

Youthreach Programme

Youthreach programmes give unemployed young people between the ages of 15 and 20, who left school early, an opportunity to get recognised qualifications and the possibility to create a viable career path for themselves. Youthreach offers a flexible and dynamic programme of integrated general education and work experience. Students set personal and educational goals that increase their self-esteem, skills and knowledge base. A training allowance related to the age of students is paid weekly, subject to attendance. A travel allowance is paid where applicable. There are a variety of subjects on offer in all the Centres. Guidance Counselling is also available to all students.

Qualifications QQI Levels 3 & 4 Length of Programme 1-3 years Frequency Monday to Thursday (8.30am - 4pm) and Friday (8.30am - 1.30pm)

National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

NCS is a new scheme that provides financial support to help parents to meet the costs of childcare. Whether you are on a full time or part time course, you may apply for this scheme.

The subsidies are paid directly to your approved childcare provider. Visit www.ncs.gov.ie for more information or contact the Support Centre on (01) 9068530.

LOETB Clara Prospectus 2022-2023 | Page 27

Clara

Clara

Centre Manager: Tracy Phelan River Street, Clara, Co. Offaly 057 9330794 • clarafet@loetb.ie