VTOS
Full Time
VTOS (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme) is a full-time education programme designed to support people returning to employment. Our courses are strategically aimed at supporting students to increase their opportunities to gain employment in their local community. Many of our past learners have gained part-time or full-time employment as a result of their participation on VTOS or gone on to complete additional courses at QQI Level 6 or third level colleges.
W
e aim to provide students with a positive learning environment, which welcomes all eligible students to participate in our programmes and by doing so reach their potential. Students returning to education for the first time are often pleasantly surprised at the supportive and helpful atmosphere here at our centre. All of our staff are very experienced, have a unique understanding of the needs and lives of adult learners, and work with students at their own pace to help them to achieve the best outcomes for them.
The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) provides adults with the opportunity to return to learning. It offers a variety of courses for people over 21 who are in receipt of Social Welfare. VTOS Athy places an emphasis on hands-on practical work as well as group and personal projects. All courses are validated by institutes that are recognised by employers and colleges.
We provided a face to face classroom-based learning environment.
Timetable 9:15 am to 4 pm daily, Monday to Friday.
Work Experience is an integral part of all our courses. Applicants are required to complete the Garda Vetting process for many work placements.
WHO CAN ATTEND VTOS:
All applicants must be aged 21 and be in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for a minimum of six months.
Qualifying social welfare payments include the following;
Jobseekers Benefit
Jobseekers Allowance
One-Parent Family
Disability Allowance/Illness
Benefit/Invalidity Pension.
Farm Assist
or signing for credits for at least six months
or be a dependent spouse of an eligible person for at least six months
or have refugee /protected status.
or be a recent Youthreach completor
or have recently been made redundant.
Periods spent on a FAS training course, Community Employment Scheme, Job Initiative, and TUS can count towards the six-month qualifying period.
VTOS is free for those who are 21 years of age or older and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment.
Adult Career Guidance, and support for students wishing to progress to Higher Education.
We offer a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Supports for learners with disabilities, including learning disabilities.
A small meal and travel allowance are payable to eligible students.
Students are not asked to buy expensive books while on the course.
A laptop loan scheme is available to disadvantaged learners.
Counselling & Well-being support available to students who need it.
Application process
Once an application form or online application has been received, potential VTOS students are invited to interview, they may also be asked to complete an initial assessment.
Una Burke, VTOS Co-ordinator, Further Education and Training Centre, Athy, Carlow Road, Athy, Co Kildare. Phone: 059 8632044 / Mobile: 087 9787727.
VTOS Programmes
Testimonial
I started VTOS as a way to further my education and to get to meet new people. The centre was welcoming and staff were approachable at all times. All staff were very supportive to students By going to VTOs and doing the course I gained confidence in myself and am now working in a job that I love. VTOS was a great opportunity for me. Thank you.”
— Linda 2020