Wexford VTOS
Where Life and Learning Connect
Wexford VTOS Wexford Adult Education Centre Westgate, Wexford, Y35 H392 053 916188 086 8533659 wexfordvtos@wwetb.ie Coordinator Peter Hayden peterhayden@wwetb.ie
Message From Our Chief Executive I wish all learners, staff and management in Wexford VTOS the very best for the forthcoming year. The trojan work put in by everyone involved to ensure that education and learning was maintained at such a high level during the covid pandemic was a great credit to all and I am sure that the learnings of that period along with the on-going motivation of all to provide excellence in education will ensure that next year will see great learning outcomes for our learners. This year will see the commencement of work on the Wexford Town Further Education and Training (FET) College of the Future which will see massively enhanced and modernised learning facilities for learners and staff across a wide range of programmes by 2023, ensuring a great college experience for all involved. Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)/ Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna Phort Láirge agus Loch Garman is the statutory body which has responsibility for education, training and youth service provision in counties Waterford and Wexford, supporting a population of over 260,000 people. Through the implementation of our Strategic Plan 2018 – 2022, exciting projects that have commenced include:
• Upgrading of our facilities including Coláiste Abbáin, Adamstown, Creagh College, Gorey, St Declan’s Community College, Kilmacthomas and Dungarvan College – Coláiste Dhún Garbhán. • Our first Community National School in Kilnamanagh, Wexford, the first primary school of its kind in Wexford or Waterford.
• Our NZEB Centre in Enniscorthy, delivering best in class certified Nearly Zero Energy Building training to construction trades across the sector. • Delivery of Music Performance Education to children and young people in Waterford and Wexford in partnership with the local authorities and Music Generation.
• Partnering with the GAA on an innovative wellbeing programme aimed at 2nd level schools, Youthreach and Local Training Initiatives.
I look forward to the development of these and other exciting projects as we continue to deliver on our Strategic Plan. Kevin Lewis
Welcome From Our Coordinator Firstly, I would like to thank you for taking the time to look through our prospectus for the 22/23 academic year. Wexford VTOS has designed a portfolio of programmes we believe is suited to every learner, from those who want to upskill or change career to those who simply want to learn more about a lifelong passion. Our Centre is characterised by our community spirit. Our small classes and student-centred approach mean that you will get as much support as you need to guide you on your path to attaining your educational goals. Our enthusiastic and empathetic staff understand that every learner who walks through the door has had different experiences and abilities and we strive to work with our learners to develop the skills and competencies they need to succeed in their chosen lifestyle. If you are looking at this prospectus, you are considering making changes in your life. Congratulations - you are now taking the first step in making that change. If you have any questions or wish to apply, please do not hesitate to contact us. We, at Wexford VTOS look forward to helping you take the next step on your pathway to learning. Is Mise Le Meas Peter Hayden
About VTOS VTOS is a programme designed to help the long-term unemployed return to full-time education, without losing their social welfare benefits. VTOS will help the participants make the transition back into paid employment or back into further education, eventually leading to paid employment. The VTOS scheme provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. It gives participants opportunities to improve their general level of education, gain certification, develop their skills and prepare for employment, self-employment and further education and training. Wexford VTOS is part of the well-established Adult Education Centre in Wexford town, run by Waterford and Wexford ETB. The Wexford Adult Education Centre is located in Westgate (the old ‘tech’). It has been running successfully for 31 years and during that time hundreds of people have returned to education here. Apart from offering top class qualifications, the centre is a great place to meet like-minded adults and new students quickly become part of the group. Whether you are recently unemployed and want to reskill or you have been out of the workforce for a while and are seeking structure and a meaningful occupation, there is something to suit you here. All courses are free of charge and you will retain your social welfare entitlements while on our VTOS programme. To be eligible you must be over 21 and in receipt of a Social Welfare payment.
Eligibility Criteria If you are over 21 years of age, are unemployed and/or have been getting certain social welfare payments for at least 6 months, you can apply for the Vocational Training and Opportunities Scheme (VTOS). This scheme provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. It gives participants the opportunity to improve their general level of education, gain certification, develop their skills and prepare for employment, self-employment and further education and training.
Social Welfare Payments may include the following: • Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Allowance or signing for credits for at least 6 months (156 days) • One-Parent Family Payment • Disability Allowance
• Illness Benefit* or Invalidity Pension for at least 6 months (156 days) • Blind Pension,
• Deserted Wife’s Allowance/Benefit,
• Widow’s, Widower’s, or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory/Non-contributory Pension
• Prisoner’s Wife’s Allowance for at least 6 months (conditions may apply in the case of these payments) • A dependent spouse, civil partner or cohabitant of an eligible person
• A person who received statutory redundancy but who has not been in receipt of a qualifying payment for the required period. Periods spent on FET training courses, Community Employment Schemes, Job Initiative, Youthreach programmes and time in prison can count towards the qualifying period. * If you are claiming Illness Benefit, you should contact your local social welfare office about exemption/ entitlement to continuation of your Illness Benefit payment.
National Framework of Qualifications Many people who have been out of education for some time can be wary of the terminology around the programmes on offer. The National Framework of Qualifications sets out the standards to be met by each learner at a national level to ensure the fair and consistent assessment of learners. The framework provides a pathway on which learners can progress to achieve a qualification in their chosen area. The framework pictured below will show you the levels: the Blue Arc indicates awards that can be obtained through primary and second level education. The Green Arc indicates Awards that can be obtained through FET institutions such as Wexford VTOS. The Pink Arc indicates progression into Higher Education Institutes. Where you begin their journey is unique to your previous education levels and related work experience. Where you end your journey is up to you.
*Modules are subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a programme not running.
General learning - for non-English speakers CERTIFICATION QQI Level 3 General learning - for non-English speakers
Course Overview This programme embraces the diversification of Irish society. The focus of this programme is for learners to gain a recognised qualification in a supportive environment where English language development is a primary aim.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Communications
Students who have graduated from WWETB ESOL classes, who wish to gain a qualification while immersing themselves in the English language in full time education are ideally suited to this programme.
• English as a Second Language • Mathematics
• Intercultural Awareness • Personal Effectiveness • Everyday English
• Work Experience
• Word Processing
• Health and Fitness.
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programme will have attained the required academic, I.T. and soft skills to progress to any of our Level 4 offerings. While progressing into the world of work is an option, graduates will gain most benefits by availing of the full two years of VTOS.
Office Skills CERTIFICATION QQI Level 4 Office Skills
Course Overview This course covers the basics of Office Skills and ensures the learner is comfortable using computers. This programme provides an excellent stepping stone to further study within the extensive portfolio of programmes within Wexford VTOS.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Communications
Do you lack confidence in your technical/ academic/computer skills? Have you been out of education for an extended period? Are you looking to change career path? This programme may be for you!
• Business English
• General Office Skills • Mathematics • I.T. Skills
• Customer Service • Reception Skills
• Work Experience • Team working
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programmes will have attained the required academic, I.T., and soft skills to progress to any of our Level 5 offerings. Those who wish to do so will have gained the skills and competencies to progress directly into the world of work. Many graduates work in reception desks and administration roles in various industries.
I.C.T- Introduction to Computer Skills CERTIFICATION QQI Level 4 I.C.T- Introduction to Computer Skills
Course Overview This programme is designed to introduce those who wish to return to education while gaining a knowledge about computers and how they operate.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Communications
Do you lack confidence in your technical/ academic/computer skills? Have you been out of education for an extended period? Do you feel that your employment opportunities will be greatly enhanced by developing your computer skills? This programme may be for you!
• Business English
• Health and Safety • Mathematics • I.T. Skills
• Customer Service
• Computer Applications • Work Experience • Web Design
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programme will have attained the required academic, I.T., and soft skills to progress to any of our Level 5 offerings. Those who wish to do so will have gained the skills and competencies to progress directly into the world of work.
Sport and Recreation Studies CERTIFICATION QQI Level 4 Sport and Recreation Studies
Course Overview A programme designed to give you an introduction to the sports and leisure industry while developing the confidence and skills to progress to further education or directly to work.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Communications
Interested in a career in the sport and recreation industry but not sure where to start? A passion for sport that you want to explore more? Want to improve your education with loads of practical subjects? Want to make a personal lifestyle change but don’t know how? This programme could be for you.
• Business English
• Health and Safety
• Health Related Fitness • Gaelic Games
• Customer Service
• Food and Nutrition • Work Experience
• Computer Applications
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programmes will have attained the required academic, I.T., and soft skills to progress to any of our Level 5 offerings. Those who wish to do so will have gained the skills and competencies to progress directly into the world of work.
Sport and Recreation – Strength and Conditioning CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Sport and Recreation – Strength and Conditioning
Course Overview Graduates of this programme will gain a major award in Sports, Recreation and Exercise. On top of this graduates will get the opportunity to gain the internationally accredited ITEC Gym Instruction Award**. This will allow them to gain employment in the fitness industry here or abroad.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Sport and Recreation Studies
This programme is for anyone with an interest in working in the fitness industry. Learners who wish to return to education while learning through sport will also find this programme very interesting. This programme will have a strong practical aspect so willingness to partake in fitness classes is a must.
• Exercise and Fitness • Customer Service • Kinesiology
• Sports Anatomy and Physiology • Nutrition
• Leisure Facility Administration • Work Experience
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
All third level institutions in the South East have strong Sport Science Departments. Graduates from QQI Level 5 programmes can achieve the equivalent of 360 Leaving Certificate points. Graduates can progress to our Level 6 PT programme or directly into work.
Sport and Recreation - Sports Injury Rehabilitation CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Sport and Recreation - Sports Injury Rehabilitation
Course Overview Graduates of this programme will gain a major award in Sports, Recreation and Exercise. On top of this, graduates will get the opportunity to gain the internationally accredited ITEC Sports Massage Award as well as the Taping and Strapping Award. This will allow graduates work independently as match first aiders or progress to Further Education.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Sport and Recreation Studies
A passion for sports and an interest in learning about sports injuries is a must for this programme. Applicants should be willing to take part in practical exercise and treatment-based classes. As part of our Sports Department, students may be asked to partake in other sporting activities from time to time to facilitate other students’ learning.
• Exercise and Fitness • Customer Service • Kinesiology
• Sports Anatomy and Physiology • Physio Assistant Practice
• Body Massage and Figure Analysis
• ITEC Sports Massage and Work Experience
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress directly into the world of work, or progress into higher education. The ITEC Sports Massage Award gives graduates the opportunity to set up their own business, or work as massage therapists in a variety of industries.
Sport and Recreation Sports Coaching CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Sport and Recreation Sports Coaching
Course Overview Graduates of this programme will gain a major award in Sports, Recreation and Exercise. Graduates will work to achieve coaching awards in their chosen sport, working closely with national governing bodies and National Schools to gain practical experience.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Sport and Recreation Studies
A passion for sports and coaching is very important for this programme. As part of our Sports Department, students may be asked to partake in other activities from time to time to facilitate other students’ learning.
• Exercise and Fitness • Team Working • Psychology
• Sports Anatomy and Physiology • Nutrition
• G.A.A Coaching (Hurling and Gaelic Football) • Work Experience
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress directly into the world of work, or progress into higher education. Wexford VTOS has strong links with WWETB and a number of graduates have gone on to attain coaching roles within the G.A.A.
Community Health Studies CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Community Health Studies
Course Overview The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and competence to work under supervision in a range of community health service settings or to progress to further and/or higher education and training.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Care Provision and Practice
If you are interested in a career in the health or caring services in the community this programme will provide you with the knowledge and skills to confidently choose your career path and attain you employment goals.
• Exercise and Fitness • Communications
• Word Processing
• Anatomy and Physiology • Safety and Health
• Legal Practice and Procedures • Work Experience
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programmes can progress to further education in a variety of sectors. Graduates will also be able to progress directly into the world of work.
Education and Training CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Education and Training
Course Overview This programme is designed for those who are interested in pursuing a teaching vocation from early years to adult education. A key focus group for this programme is tradespeople who wish to work towards gaining the skills to educate the next generation of Tradespeople.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Care Provision and Practice
Have you an interest in education? Are you exploring a career as an educator? Lacking confidence/knowledge/education to progress directly to Higher Education? Do you want to pass the skills of your trade onto the next generation? This is the course for you!
• Interpersonal and Group Behaviour
• Communications, Word Processing • Peer Education
• Safety and Health
• Concepts of Education and Training • Work Experience
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
This programme is 100% aimed at progression to further education. Graduates will gain an insight into the education sector but will not be qualified to teach upon completion. ‘Train the Trainer’ and Higher Education Courses are progression options.
Business Administration CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Business Administration
Course Overview Graduates of this programme will gain a major award in Business Administration. This programme has been designed to suit students who wish to progress directly into the workplace or progress to further study.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Administration
If you are looking to upskill, retrain or get an idea if this sector is of interest to you, this is the course for you. Graduates will also get to improve their I.T. Literacy through our Microsoft Certification programmes.
• Accounts Manual and Computerised • Word Processing
• Customer Service
• E-business, Insurance • Work Experience
• French/ESOL or Spreadsheet Methods
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress directly into the world of work, or progress into Higher Education. There are multiple progression routes within Wexford VTOS for this programme. Graduates of this programme will also have the option of progressing to study business in an institute of further education, or to St. Patricks College Carlow to partake in their Arts Degree programmes which can lead to teaching, as well as their Social, Political and Community Studies degree.
Business Administration - Start your Own Business CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Business Administration - Start your Own Business
Course Overview Graduates of this programme will gain a major award in Business Administration. This programme has been designed to suit students who wish to set up their own business.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Administration
Have you become unemployed/made redundant and have a business idea you would like to develop? Do you like the idea of working for yourself but have no idea where to start? This programme might be for you!
• Accounts Manual and Computerised • Word Processing • Work Experience • Team Work
• Spreadsheets
• Start your Own Business • Entrepreneurial Skills
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
The aim of this programme is to guide students on the paths to starting their own business. Those who wish to further their education can progress to our level 6 Business Management Programme.
Office Informatics - Computer Skills CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Office Informatics - Computer Skills
Course Overview This Programme will cover everything you need to know about computers and the software used in everyday work and educational life.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Administration
Do the thoughts of working with computers and their basic software scare you? Are you looking to return to a work environment but need to update your skillset? This course is for you!
• The Internet
• Word Processing • Work Experience • Teamwork
• Spreadsheets
• Capstone for Office Informatics • Database
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress directly into the world of work, or progress into Higher Education. There are multiple progression routes within Wexford VTOS for graduates of this programme. The option of progressing to study a similar topic in an institute of higher education is also an option.
Legal Studies CERTIFICATION QQI Level 5 Legal Studies
Course Overview This Programme will act as an introduction to the legal profession, as an entry point for administrators or a starting point for those wishing to progress to higher education.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Administration
Do you want to pursue a career in the legal profession? Have you an interest in working in environments with legal issues such as community work, Social care, or Human Resources? This course could be for you!
• Business Law
• Word Processing • Work Experience • Teamwork
• Spreadsheets
• Legal Practice and Procedures • Database
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress directly into the world of work, or progress into higher education. There are multiple progression routes within Wexford VTOS for graduates of this programme. The option of progressing to study a similar topic in an institute of higher education is also an option.
Accounting Technicians Ireland Year 1 CERTIFICATION Accounting Technicians Ireland Year 1
Course Overview This award works to combine professional exams and assessments with practical work experience. The MIATI designation is the first thing employers will look for when recruiting Accounting Technicians. This is a fully funded programme.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Financial Accounting 1
Whether you are a school-leaver, changing career, or looking to get back to work, this recognised and respected qualification will open-up the door to a rewarding career in accounting.
• Taxation 1
• Business Law and Business Management * extra QQI modules may be added to this programme to enhance learner employability
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates of this programme will progress into ATI Year 2. Graduates can also enter into the workforce and continue their study self-funded.
Accounting Technicians Ireland Year 2 CERTIFICATION Accounting Technicians Ireland Year 2
Course Overview This award works to combine professional exams and assessments with practical work experience. The MIATI designation is the first thing employers will look for when recruiting Accounting Technicians.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Advanced Financial Accounting
If you have already completed year 1 of ATI this programme is for you.
• Advanced Taxation
• Management Accounting
• Integrated Accounting Systems * extra QQI modules may be added to this programme to enhance learner employability
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
On successful completion of Year 2, students may become Affiliate Members of Accounting Technicians Ireland, allowing them to maintain their professional affiliation while they complete the work experience requirement of the Diploma. Graduates of this programme can also avail of direct entry into Year two of I.T. Carlow Wexford Campus Business Degree.
Business-Management CERTIFICATION QQI Level 6 BusinessManagement
Course Overview This Business Major award is designed to enable graduates work independently in a supervisory role. The key to this programme is a strong focus on people management and upwards and downwards communications within business settings.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Management
Many people work their way to supervisory roles without qualifications. This programme will give individuals the opportunity to match their experience to qualifications and gain new employment. Graduates of a Level 5 programme will also find this an excellent opportunity to advance their academic and employability skills.
• Communications
• Work Experience
• Managing People
• Financial Reporting
• Human Resource Management
• Applied Economics and Supervisory Management
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Graduates can progress to further studies in Higher Education or directly into work in a variety of settings. Graduates of this programme will also have the option of progressing to study business in an institute of further education, or to St. Patricks College Carlow to partake in their Arts Programme which can lead to a career in teaching, as well as their Social, Political and Community Studies degree.
Pre-College Business CERTIFICATION QQI Level 6 Pre-College Business
Course Overview This Business Major award is designed to equip graduates with the skills to progress to third level business programmes.
Programme of Study
Is this for me?
• Business Management
Are you a graduate of a Level 5 programme looking to gain further knowledge? Do you wish to gain the skills to progress to a degree course in small, supportive class groups? If this is so, this may be the course for you.
• Communications
• Work Experience • Spreadsheets
• Financial Reporting
• Applied Economics
• Customer Service and Maths
Career Opportunities *Modules are
subject to change. Alternative offers may be made in the event of a
programme not running.
Using our Links with I.T. Carlow Wexford Campus, graduates who achieve a certain standard can progress directly into second year of their Business Degree programme. Graduates of this programme will also have the option of progressing to study business in an Institute of Further Education, or to St. Patricks College Carlow to partake in their Arts degree which can lead to a career in teaching, as well as their Social, Political and Community Studies degree.
Higher Education Progression Routes The following is an example of college programmes graduates can apply for. This list is not exhaustive, in certain cases grade requirements need to be met. Successful completion of a programme in Wexford VTOS does not guarantee acceptance on another Higher Education Programme.
Business Awards BB Business Administration, BA Accounting, BBS-Digital Marketing, BBS- Aviation Management. Higer Cert in Legal Studies, BBS- Sport and Recreation Management, BA in Hospitality Management, BSC Retail Management, Bachelor of Arts, BA Social, Political, and Community Studies, BA English Media and Culture
Level 5 Sport and Recreation and Community Health BBS, Sport and Recreation Management, BA Sports Coaching, Honours Bachelor of Laws, BSC Health Sciences, Sports Rehabilitation, BSC Strength and Conditioning, Legal Studies, Applied Social Care, BA in Music, BA in Criminal Justice, BA in Psychology, BA in applied Healthcare,
Level 5 Legal Studies BA English, Media & Culture, BA Philosophy, Politics & Sociology, BA Applied Social Studies, Bachelor of Arts, Higher Cert in Arts, Bachelor of Business, BA in Hospitality Management, Bachelor of Laws, BA in Criminal Justice, BBS in business Information Systems
Level 5 Education and Training Bachelor of Arts and Humanities, BA Social Science, BA Applied Health Care, BA Social Care Practice, BA Early Childhood Education and Care, BA in Criminal Justice, BA in Health Science, BA Social policy and sociology
Other VTOS Options in County Wexford Should you not find something that interests you in our offerings, or distance and travel is an issue, please have a look at what other VTOS programmes are offering throughout Wexford.
VTOS Enniscorthy Gonzaga House, Weafer Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. Y21K702
T: 0539237224 E: Enniscorthyvtos@wwetb.ie Programmes: Employability Skills - Level 3 Office Skills - Level 4
Business Administration - Level 5
VTOS Gorey Gorey Civic Centre, The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford Y25A6Y2
T: 0539421791 E: goreyvtos@wwetb.ie Programmes: Employability Skills - Level 3 Office Skills - Level 4
Business Administration - Level 5
VTOS New Ross Butlersland, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Y34AD63
T: 051425034 E: newrossvtos@wwetb.ie Programmes: Hotel Front Office Skills - Level 4
Information and Communications Technology Skills - Level 4 Culinary Skills - Level 4
Professional Cookery - Level 5
Business Administration - Level 5
Wexford VTOS - 2020- 2021 Courses
Notes:
Wexford VTOS Wexford Adult Education Centre Westgate, Wexford, Y35 H392 053 916188 086 8533659 wexfordvtos@wwetb.ie Coordinator Peter Hayden peterhayden@wwetb.ie