Adult learners attend forum in Carlow
Martha Bolger, director of further education and training at KCETB
ADULT learners gathered at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel in Carlow recently for a regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum. The event provided a valuable platform for learners to share their experiences, reflect on their educational journeys and contribute to shaping the future of further education in Ireland.
The forum is a collaborative initiative led by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, in partnership with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority, and local education and training boards. Throughout 2025, thousands of adult learners from across Ireland will participate in regional forums, offering invaluable insights into the diverse experiences of learners nationwide.
Martha Bolger, director of further education and training at Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB), said: “The AONTAS FET Learner Forum is all about our learners. We want to hear about our learners' experiences in FET and how they think it can be improved. Events like today promote dialogue and collaboration to help in building trust and engagement with the learner voice.”
Learners highlighted both peer support and special needs assistant support as positive aspects of their courses. Some Youthreach learners shared how their experiences in further education and training have been transformative, boosting their confidence after negative experiences in mainstream education.
For some learners, the lack of transportation options or complete absence of transport in their area was a significant concern. Other issues raised included a lack of information about mental health services at certain centres, short class durations for arts and crafts learners, and challenges with sourcing and scheduling work placements.
If you are thinking of going back to education, you can find further information on the AONTAS website. You can also check out the range of programmes available at the Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board on https://kcetb.ie/en.
