Information News
Activation Measures
July/ August 2010
Details of the Labour Market Activation Measures were announced by the Tánaiste in June 2010. They include a range of training and upskilling opportunities for people who are unemployed. For details on the full range of course options available to you under the new Activation measures, click here.
- The WebActivate programme operates in Dublin, Cork and Galway and aims to reskill 200 people by the end of 2010. Accreditation is awarded at FETAC Level 6. The closing date for applicants is July 16th 2010.
- The University of Limerick is inviting applications for a variety of courses - including Business, Exercise and Fitness and General Studies. Applications must be received by August 13th.
- Meath VEC are running the SIT SMART programme as part of the Activation Measures. The programme involves full time training opportunities for Job seekers interested in a career in Science, E-Business or Information Technology.
- Co. Galway VEC is running a 'Creativity in Training' course aimed at people between the ages of 18 and 35. Course content includes Media, Tourism, Aquaculture and Energy. Accreditation is offered at FETAC Levels 3 and 4. The deadline for applications is July 23rd 2010.
- Co. Mayo VEC is also offering places a similar Creativity in Training course. For more details and application forms click here.
- Co Carlow IT is offering the Level 8 year of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)in Mechanical Engineering. Typical applicants are mature with mechanical or craft backgrounds having progressed through Level 7 ordinary degrees, National Diplomas, or the RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) equivalent.The course is now accepting candidates.
Other training opportunities for Jobseekers
The Irish Centre for Business Excellence Skillnets Training Projects offer a number of free training places on their listed programmes or networking events. To qualify for a free place under this initiative, you must be registered with the Department of Social Protection, be in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance or Jobseekers Benefit. If you are a former sole trader then you must have notified the Department that you have ceased trading. For further information on the training available through the ICBE visit their website.
Funding and Finance
Mature students and adult learners around the country are now receiving offers of third level places through the CAO. Changes in last years Budget mean that if you are in receipt of the Back to Education Allowance you will no longer be eligible for a Student Maintenance Grant.
Its very important that you submit the grant application form anyhow - as the Exchequer will meet the cost of your registration fees.
If you are having difficulty meeting the costs of your education, you should enquire about the Student Assistance Fund. For more information about funding and finance, and to download a copy of the grant application, go to studentfinance.ie.
If you have been made unemployed and who are looking for information about your education and training options, AONTAS has put together a new FAQ section about upskilling and retraining.
