When learners speak, lead and create: A discussion on learner agency, strategies and policy through the learners’ voice
In adult learning, the term “learner voice” is often celebrated—but rarely interrogated. Too often, it’s confused with surveys, feedback forms, or participation in pre-designed activities. What’s missing is the deeper question: Who holds the power to shape what adult learning is—and whose experiences are allowed to influence its design, delivery, and direction?
How Inishowen Development Partnership is Empowering Communities in Donegal
The workshop created a welcoming space for new migrant communities to foster a sense of belonging, integrate into local life, and actively contribute to a greener, more inclusive Buncrana. Twelve participants attended the session, representing Nigeria, Pakistan, Botswana, the Philippines, and Ukraine. The discussion focused on ensuring that migrant communities have a voice in shaping […]
A Cornerstone of the North Dublin Community: Coolock Development Council
Our Community Education Officer Lorraine O’Connor visits members of the Community Education Network across the country, demonstrating the real impact of their work and the transformative benefits they bring to their communities.
Connecting Communities: Highlights from the 55th AONTAS AGM- Testing Blog Post
On 22 May, we gathered for the 55th AONTAS Annual General Meeting, a powerful day of reflection and connection. Guided by our theme of Connecting Communities, the day was an opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues and celebrate the strength of adult and community education across the island. Writing by Megan Fearon, Head of Impact and […]
Connecting Communities: Highlights from the 55th AONTAS AGM
On 22 May, we gathered for the 55th AONTAS Annual General Meeting, a powerful day of reflection and connection. Guided by our theme of Connecting Communities, the day was an opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues and celebrate the strength of adult and community education across the island.
99% of adult learners find taking part in the National FET Learner Forum a positive experience
As we reach the end of another academic term, we’re critically reflecting on learners’ experiences of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum. Our findings show that the vast majority of learners saw the Forum as a positive experience for them.
Joining Forces to Amplify Learner Voice in Linz, Austria
European partners meet in Linz to drive forward the ENHANCE project and embed Learner Voice at every level of adult education.
From Classrooms to National Agendas: A European Model for Embedding Learner Voice at Every Level
Giving learners a say in their education is key to improving outcomes and strengthening communities. A new model developed through an Erasmus+ project offers stakeholders a clear roadmap for embedding Learner Voice at every level.
“Joy, too, is a form of resistance” says human rights activist and educator Caoimhe Butterly
Irish human rights campaign and activist Caoimhe Butterly spoke to us recently about joy, education, and culture as a form of resistance in the face of current world events, particularly the genocide in Palestine and the rise of fascism. Caoimhe has spent over twenty years working in humanitarian and social justice contexts around the world. She is a trained psychotherapist and works to help with trauma for migrants and refugees fleeing violence and persecution, and with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, in primary and secondary schools.
What is Learner Voice training for staff in FET and adult education?
Learner Voice continues to be at the heart of AONTAS’ work as we pursue our vision of educational equality for all adult learners.
Over the past year, our Learner Voice Project Officer Karyn Farrell and I have developed and delivered Learner Voice training across the country.