The National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum:
Learner Voice is at the heart of AONTAS’ work. It is a concept in education that means that learners should have a say in decisions about their own education. It means that those who learn, not just those who teach, should influence the educational experience.
The National FET Learner Forum is a series of events taking place across Ireland, which facilitate adult learners to share their experiences of learning. This is the basis of our advocacy work and is used to ensure further education and training policy is responding to the needs of the learners themselves.
Since its launch, the Forum has reached thousands of learners. The project consists of one national event and a series of regional events held at Education and Training Boards across Ireland each year. We are here to listen to the voices of adult learners from across Ireland. We share the experiences of adult learners with SOLAS and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
This means change happens from the ground up.
Our latest "Learner Voices Across Ireland" report shows 64% of people surveyed gained more self-confidence through engaging in adult learning in Ireland in the last year. 58% gained a more positive outlook on the future, while 31% had an increased sense of belonging, and better health and well-being.
READ MOREThe value of FET
"Being part of further education has helped me to find new friends and it’s helped me with my confidence"
Importance of Learner Voice
"They need to know our needs. If we’re at the centre of it, they need to know what we want, what we decide"
Improvements To FET Advertisement
"Why is FET not advertised like the other schools and universities when we are doing similar things?"
