Forum to give a 'voice' to adult learners
3 Nov 2010 12:29 PM
Today, November 3rd seventy adults taking part in education met to set up the first National Adult Learners Forum. The Forum is being established by AONTAS to give a stronger voice to adults engaged in education.
'Over the past eighteen months AONTAS has documented an unprecedented increase in the numbers of adults returning to education' explained AONTAS Director Berni Brady.
- This year, one in every five of the 77,628 CAO applicants was a mature student, up 17% from 2009.
- The increase in demand goes right across the board - for example there were almost 46,000 applicants for 14,000 PLC places available.
- Data from individual VECs suggests three applicants for every place offered on one of their courses.
- 10,351 adults accessed the BTEA (Back to Education Allowance) in the 2009-10 academic year- up from 6,559 on the previous year.
Structural unemployment and the length of recession means that many adults are considering alternative careers and reskilling, or returning to formal education after a long absence. 'Given that 20% of the workforce is still at Junior Cert level, this public appetite for learning is really encouraging,' said Berni Brady. 'It is vital that new developments in further and adult education recognise the changing profile and are supported to respond to the increase in adult learners.'
Adults still face significant barriers returning to formal education. Berni Brady explained 'There are practical considerations which aren't experienced by younger students. For example, who will mind the children, and how to balance study and assignments with family commitments. Transport and childcare are the biggest issues for adults returning to education. 'Adult education is a big ask, financially, and many adults lost out on the Maintenance Grant following changes in last year's Budget. Third level education can be a daunting experience for adults, and hopefully the Forum can offer support to a growing cohort of students.'
The meeting heard from Winifred Hignell, who represents adult learners on the national organisation in England NIACE, as well as the Learning and Skills Council. Her educational achievement level was basic and her early working life included a variety of low skilled low paid jobs. An assessment of her and subsequent diagnosis of dyslexia in her early thirties was key to her progression in education - eventually she went on to complete a Bachelors degree in Philosophy. Winifred maintains that 'the voice of adult learners is central to any educational provision.'
The event also heard from adult learners in Ireland. They include Owen Ward from Co. Galway. Owen left school at the age of 15 to work as a labourer, but always wanted to return to education. He applied and was accepted on the Mature Students Access course at NUI Galway. Following the changes to the Back to Education Allowance in Budget 2009, he worked with other students to set up a campaign to try and have the decision reversed. Owen accepted a place on a Degree in Human Rights in Galway and remains committed to pursuing his education despite the financial challenge.
'Upskilling and reskilling are a vital part of our future growth, from both an economic and social perspective', said Berni Brady. We need to ensure that people with lower skills are given the chance to further their education now, so that they can avail of future employment opportunities when the economic situation improves. The alternative is an increasing prospect of long term unemployment, which will cost society in the long term.'
ENDS
For more information contact:
Niamh Farren 01 4068220/ 087 911 0569
Notes to Editor
1. More details about the Forum are available from http://www.aontas.com/download/pdf/national_adult_learners_final.pdf
2. Photographs will be available on the day.
