Intensive English Summer Programme at LMETB Adult Learning Service in Dundalk

When most schools and colleges are closing for the summer the doors of the LMETB Adult Learning Service in Dundalk stayed open for July to provide an Intensive English Summer Programme.

This is the third year of the programme and over a hundred learners came to five different level classes for a unique intensive opportunity to improve their level of English.

Trips are now integral part of the summer programme. All groups went on trips to visit places of interest, at the same time getting to practice their new skills out of the classroom environment. Some of the learners visited Malahide Castle in Dublin and others went to an Intercultural Day in Causey Farm in Co. Meath.

All groups were also brought to the local library in Dundalk to connect them into this important local facility and enable additional language development for them and their families.

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These trips provided the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the learners' new environment and allow them to practice their English in real situations.

A welcome addition to the programme this year was the delivery of the “Reduce your Use” sustainable energy programme to give people tips on conserving energy and saving money in the process.

Kinga Byrne the ALO in the LMETB Adult Learning Service in Dundalk said: “We are delighted to offer this unique opportunity to as many as a hundred learners who have availed of the programme this summer.

“Each year we endeavour to enhance it by adding new courses.

“This year saw the launch of a new class to support learners who have secured full time places in O’Fiaich Institute of FET. Twelve students attended this class, and we would like to wish them luck in September when they start their full-time courses.”

The LMETB Adult Learning Service summer courses would not be possible without the incredible work of three tutors Brian, Niamh and Regina who have worked an extra month to provide so many learners with this opportunity, a spokesperson said.

The great rate of attendance of the learners at the classes shows the value they place on this course. Most of these students will return to study in the LMETB Adult Learning Service Dundalk in part-time classes in September and their progress will be greatly enhanced by their commitment to the Intensive Summer Programme.