City of Limerick VEC, Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme

Address: Limerick Adult Education College, Presentation Court, Sexton Street, Limerick, Ireland

Web-page: www.limerickvtos.ie

e-mail: vtos@clvec.ie

Limerick VTOS is a full-time Adult Education programme for unemployed adults over 21 years of age who are in receipt of a social welfare payment. Approximately half of the 210 students have refugee status and come from Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa. Many of the students, including the Irish students, have poor basic skills competency. VTOS offers a wide-ranging programme (Basic Skills, General Studies, ESOL, Leaving Certificate, Visual Arts, Enterprise, Business Secretarial, Childcare and Interior Décor) and aims to develop the social, educational and vocational competencies of its participants.

Limerick VTOS is most enthusiastic about the prospect of taking part in a European partnership. Ireland’s social and economic profile has changed significantly in recent years and Limerick VTOS has responded and adapted very successfully to this change. It wishes to share the experience with other European neighbours as well as offering learners and tutors alike the opportunity to participate in transnational trips. The enhanced understanding and tolerance of other cultures will be very beneficial, given the international profile of VTOS learners.