Adult learners in Louth gather to discuss education landscape

Over 90 adult learners from Meath and Louth came together at Gormanstown this week for a regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum. This meeting was one of a series of regional forums that will take place across Ireland in 2024 and the high turnout marked the biggest forum of the year to date. 

Learners who gathered met to discuss their experiences of Further Education and Training and make suggestions to improve courses and facilities for all in this educational space. Many participants were hugely positive about their "excellent" tutors and highlighted that the self-directed learning approach of many courses made them feel empowered. Neurodiverse learners expressed their appreciation for the counselling services and additional supports available to them at their centres. 

Absence of childcare, a high turnover of tutors and a lack of spaces at some courses were all flagged as issues for the learners gathered. Despite these challenges, learners were keen to share some suggestions to improve the education experience for all.

These suggestions included providing more opportunities for migrant learners to mix and meet Irish people in their local community, more communication regarding supports available to learners and promoting a greater awareness of the Learner Forum.  

The National FET Learner Forum is a collaborative effort between AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation; SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority; and Education and Training Boards. 

The FET Learner Forum aims to amplify the "Learner Voice", a concept where those who learn can influence the educational experience beyond relying on those who teach. Many participants praised the relaxed atmosphere at the forum and the judgement-free environment it created. One attendee said they enjoyed: "Having an opportunity to voice concerns and to note the improvements in Adult Education over the past 30 years". 

Speaking about the forum, LMETB's Adult Education Officer Kelvin Harvey said: "Today’s event is a powerful example of ‘Learner Voice’ – where those who learn, not just those who teach, influence the educational experience. LMETB would like to thank all learners who participated and all the AONTAS staff and facilitators who made the day such a success." 

Anyone thinking of going back to education can find further information on www.aontas.com. You can also check out the range of programmes available at the Waterford and Wexford Educational Training Board https://www.wwetb.ie/fet/course-finder/