Learners come together to shape further education in Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim

OVER 60 adult learners gathered at the Park Hotel in Kiltimagh for the Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum.

The event provided learners with a welcoming and inclusive space to share their experiences, reflect on their learning journeys, and contribute directly to shaping the future of further education and training.

The forum is run by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, in partnership with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority, and local Education and Training Boards. The forums place learners at the centre of conversations about further education and training and ensure that learner feedback directly informs improvements across the FET sector.

Key themes discussed during the forum included the importance of Youthreach, community education and ESOL programmes in supporting inclusion in education and Irish society. Learners also highlighted the vital role played by tutors and staff across Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB centres, sharing many examples of welcoming and inclusive practices, including outreach and counselling supports available in some centres.

Speaking at the forum, Ann McNamara, assistant manager at the Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB Training Centre, said: “The National FET Learner Forum is a very positive opportunity for learners to share their experiences and opinions in an inclusive space. Learner views really matter to us. We believe that listening to learners is key to improving what we do, and the feedback shared will be used directly to shape our improvement plan and guide future developments.”

Learners spoke very positively about their experience of the forum, with many highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and the clear structure of the discussions. Participants shared that “I really liked this event. It was excellent” and “I liked the welcoming atmosphere and the clear way the discussions were structured.” Others appreciated the opportunity to contribute their views, noting “I liked getting to give feedback and having a voice” and “I liked sharing my views on relevant educational issues.”

Learners also valued the opportunity to engage with peers from other centres, with one participant commenting: “I valued the chance to talk about our centre with other learners and to hear about others' experiences.”

The range of perspectives shared was particularly welcomed, with learners highlighting “the variety of thoughts and opinions from the group.”

Many learners commented on the professionalism of the event and the opportunity for open dialogue, sharing: “Very professionally delivered and easy to follow,” “Everyone got time to ask a question and to get answers,” and “The event was well organised and presented.”

Learners reflected on the impact of being listened to, with participants stating: “I learned that my opinion is important, that they are willing to listen and try to make change,” and “I learned about the supports available to FET learners and how our feedback can influence future policies.”

If you are thinking of returning to education, further information is available on the AONTAS website, or by exploring the wide range of programmes offered by Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board.