Skip to main content

Approximately 140 adult learners, tutors and guests attended the Tipperary ETB Adult Learning Scheme Awards held in the Clonmel Park Hotel on Thursday, 10th November.  Also in attendance were Marian Lynch, National Adult Literacy and Skills for Work Coordinator; Liam Ahern, Chairperson of the Further Education and Training Board; Cllr. Siobhan Ambrose, Board member; Matthew Ryan, Training Services Manager; Eileen Condon, Director of Further Education and Training; and Mary Roche Cleary, Adult Literacy Organiser.

The Adult Learning Scheme provides adult basic education, workplace basic skills and English language courses. These awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the efforts made by adults who made the decision to return to education and pursue accreditation.

Eileen Condon, Director of Further Education and Training, welcomed all guests and spoke of the wonderful role models all learners receiving awards would now be to their family and friends. She explained that we can never underestimate the power of example, and how it can plant the seed in the minds of others who are inspired by the achievements they see before them.  Eileen Condon also paid tribute to all the TETB staff who assisted the learners in reaching their potential.

In her speech, Mary Roche Cleary, Adult Literacy Organiser, congratulated the hard work and determination of the students. She stated that the students were “contributing to our economy in terms of the skills you’ve learned that place you well to progress to an education course at a higher level or skills that can be put to use in the workplace straight away”.     Mary also spoke about the technological age we live in and that “the definition of literacy is not confined to reading and writing, but encompasses the ability to understand and engage in many means of communication including spoken language. It also includes numeracy skills and maths in problem solving and meeting the day to day demands of life. Literacy in relation to empowering people to be involved and play an active part in our community is also very important.”

Mary then went on to praise the Adult Learning Scheme staff and volunteers, and to thank them, saying “developing and delivering courses that provide students with these opportunities requires a dedicated, experienced and skilled staff.  Our tutors make classes meaningful, enjoyable, personally relevant and at the same time ensure achievement of the prescribed learning outcomes for accreditation.”     Four students and two tutors spoke to the audience about their learning and teaching experiences. The speeches were reflective, personal, carefully prepared and very interesting. They were given a huge round of applause.    The presentation of the QQI, TETB and IELTS certificates followed, with photographs and then refreshments. It was a very enjoyable evening.

Ends.

 

Leave a Reply