More than 30 students attending National Learning Network (NLN) Letterkenny have been honoured for their achievements and successful completion of their supportive training courses, funded by Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), at a graduation ceremony recently.
National Learning Network is a progressive leader in the delivery of personalised education. In collaboration with Donegal ETB, the service provides a diverse range of vocational programmes for people requiring additional supports.
On the day, students were presented with QQI certificates having completed various inclusive training programmes, which aim to develop their personal, social and work-related skills, enabling them to secure jobs or go on to further or higher education.
The event was attended by representatives from Donegal Education and Training Board and National Learning Network, Mayor of Letterkenny Councillor Gerry McMonigle, stakeholders, staff, family and friends.
NLN Letterkenny manager Dawn Patterson said: “We are immensely proud of all the students who have achieved their goals and overcome their personal challenges. Today’s award ceremony celebrates the unwavering support of their families, NLN staff and our partners in education, Donegal ETB. This hard work and commitment have led to each student receiving a nationally recognised QQI award.”
Students from various NLN vocational training courses attended on the day to receive their awards, which range from levels 3 – 5 on the national framework of qualifications.
Vinny McGroary, Area Training Manager, Donegal ETB, congratulated all the students on their achievements and acknowledged the hurdles they had to overcome to do so, highlighted the immense contribution of training partners, the NLN, who provide an excellent personalised service to all the students.
Vinny added, “The unique partnership and collaboration between the learners, their families, local employers and the staff of the NLN working alongside Donegal ETB, the Department of Social Protection and other stakeholders is hugely important.
“Having listened to the speakers at the event which included students, an employer and a parent of one of the award recipients, it was obvious to all present how important these relationships are in contributing to the development and achievements of the students in a wide range of areas”, he added.
The popular Employability Skills course is designed to give students a baseline of skills needed for employment and further education in today’s modern world. The Retail Skills course gives students a fantastic insight into the key elements involved in the retail sector with modules such as stock control, retail sales techniques, and customer service, skills which are transferable into all aspects of working life. The IT and Business course provides students with an overview of all the processes and applications needed to run a modern office.
NLN offers fully-funded courses to people aged from 16 to 65 who need additional support including people who have a mental health issue, autism, or who have had an accident, illness, injury, or have a physical or learning disability. Vocational training courses are funded by Donegal Education and Training Board. NLN Letterkenny is located at Rossview Business Park.
NLN’s range of certified courses are tailored to each student’s needs, to help them to build their confidence while gaining practical skills in order to get a job or go on to further or higher education. NLN operates on continuous intake, which means people can begin a course at a time that suits them. There are no CAO points required.
Visit www.nln.ie to find out more or email: letterkenny@nln.ie