PARALYMPIC medal winner Catherine Walsh presented over 200 National Learning Network students with certificates recently at the Carnegie Hotel, Swords.
The students were presented with FETAC certificates and awards following the completion of a range of courses designed to support people to enter into or return to employment or progress to further education.
The vocational programmes, funded by the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education Training Board (DDLETB) include Fresh Start, IT with Office Skills, Fast Track to Employment and Vocational Skills Foundation. Rehabilitative training courses funded by the HSE include Choices, Access and Reach.
Student Martin Boyle acknowledged the support he has received in National Learning Network,
“These programmes have given me the support and confidence to be able to plan my future, including completing certification at Levels 3 and 4 and an upcoming work placement,
? he said.
“This will prepare me to progress to a Level 5 course in Nutrition and Dietetics in September and hopefully to employment in that area afterwards.
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Another student, Sharon Byrne, said she was delighted to be starting a Work Placement with Marks & Spencer. She acknowledged the help she received from the Reach and Sli Bheatha programmes in Balbriggan and the Fresh Start programme in Coolock in building her confidence and helping her get the opportunity she now has.
Hugh Glynn, a student who completed the Fresh Start programme in Coolock, said he received great support from the NLN. He spoke of the confidence and opportunities that the programme has given him.
John Morris said his experience as a student on the Vocational Skills Foundation and Business and IT programmes gave him a great confidence boost.
“I completed a certified programme at FETAC Level 5 and secured a job with SKY after the CV and Interview preparation which I received on the course,
? he said.
“The course has given me great hope for the future. I would never have imagined speaking in public before starting the course.
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The National Learning Network centre in Swords and its two satellite centres in Balbriggan and Coolock offers training opportunities to over 100 people throughout the North Dublin area.
Minister for Health Dr James Reilly, who attended the event, congratulated the students and wished them well in the future.
“I am delighted to celebrate the achievements of the students in National Learning Network,
? he said.
“I am glad to see so many people speaking about progressing to jobs and the help they have received from National Learning Network to do this.
“Employment is a key focus of the Government and the daily routine of work is also a huge part of giving a person a positive sense of self.
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Catherine Walsh, who won a silver medal at the London 2012 Paralympics, also congratulated the students.
“I know from my experience competing, the effort it takes to win so for those of you who had to overcome various challenges and barriers to get to where you are, it’s a fantastic achievement and I say well done on what you have achieved,
? Ms Walsh told the award recipients.
“I would like to wish each of the students the very best of luck in that next step.
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John Costello, area manager, National Learning Network in Swords, said it was great to see the students reaping the benefits of their learning, either in further education or in local employment.
“All of the staff here in National Learning Network congratulate them and wish them every success in the future,
? said Mr Costello.