Courses encourage jobless into education

THE time, cost or implications for welfare entitlements may be an obstacle for some prospective students to applying for courses through the CAO.

But there are other options available which can help overcome some or a combination of these factors.

The Government plans to repeat two programmes which were specifically aimed at unemployed people who want to improve their qualifications.

A new Labour Market Activation Fund of €20 million is expected to allow around 6,5000 people avail of a range of courses. They will be targeted specifically at the long-term unemployed and details are expected to emerge later in the year as colleges and private course providers are selected.

Also being renewed is the Springboard programme which is providing free part-time higher education opportunities up to masters degree level. It was first rolled out last summer and, despite some early difficulties matching up suitable applicants to the courses on offer, is allowing people with previous relevant employment experience a chance to adapt their skills to new careers. More details of the Springboard programme are online at www.bluebrick.ie.

Most courses offered through the BlueBrick site are run through the 14 institutes of technology, as well as NUI Galway and University of Limerick, and will not be recommencing until next autumn. But now could be a good time to visit the site for a taste of what is on offer for those who may prefer a part-time course, or one that offers more flexible learning options, including online.