South East Technological University’s (SETU) Lifelong Learning and Student Services launches the Certificate in Learning to Learn at Third Level with the Tullow Traveller Women’s Group in Carlow. This certificate is launched in collaboration with Forward Steps Resource Centre and Carlow Young People’s Service’s Committee (CYPSC).
SETU Lifelong Learning is delighted to launch this project that enhances access to higher education for Traveller women. The aim of the Certificate in Learning to Learn at Third Level is to explore the range of different learning styles that might suit a given individual and to examine approaches to studying effectively at third level. Participants will be introduced to academic reading and writing techniques such as how to structure assignments. The course will prepare participants for independent learning and introduce them to key ideas in the area of social studies.
SETU and Forward steps recognise the importance of community-wide participation in third level education. The participants from Tullow Traveller Women’s Group are pillars within their community as role models to their family, friends and neighbours. As such, they are guiding the path to higher education for others. Dr Joe Collins, Head of Faculty Lifelong Learning said “SETU is spearheading many initiatives to improve participation in third level by under-represented groups and this is another example of a course that will be life changing for participants”.
“We are delighted to welcome every member of Tullow Traveller Women’s Group that has embarked on their third level educational journey with SETU. This collaborative project is exemplary of the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in ensuring equal access to education for all.” says, Nicola McEntee, SETU Project Coordinator.
“Forward Steps Resource Centre is delighted to collaborate with SETU on the provision of the Level 6 Certificate in Learning to Learn at Third Level. This is a wonderful opportunity for Tullow Traveller Women's Group and members of the Traveller Community throughout county Carlow. I sincerely congratulate every Traveller woman who is undertaking this programme. They are quite inspirational and thoroughly deserve this opportunity. I'd like to acknowledge the support of Carlow Children and Young People's Services Committee (CYPSC) for funding the ancillary aspects of this programme, which will ensure that participation is fully supported. I also thank SETU, and in particular Nicola McEntee, for creating this opportunity. I hope it leads to further opportunities to collaborate in the future.”, says Sharon Maxwell, Family Support and Community Development Worker at Forward Steps Resource Centre.
Course participant and member of Tullow Traveller Women’s Group, Mary Berry, commented, “This is a good opportunity for us to show our children and grandchildren that education can happen at any stage of life. We're setting a good example and it means a lot to us. It can be difficult for Travellers to continue in education. It would be great for younger Travellers to also get an opportunity to train and continue in education like this.“
For more information, contact Project Coordinator, Nicola McEntee, at [email protected]
Photo Caption: Head of Faculty of Lifelong Learning, Dr Joseph Collins, Lifelong Learning Manager, Rosemary Flynn and SETU Project Coordinator, Nicola McEntee, joined the Tullow Traveller Women's Group and collaborative partners from Forward Steps Resource Centre and Carlow Children's and Young People's Services Committee (CYPSC) to launch the Certificate in Learning to Learn at Third Level.