adult education and VTOS ...

Whitehall College of Further Education has for many years provided innovative programmes for mature students who wish to return to education.

Previous educational attainment does not exclude anyone from the opportunity to join our courses. Entry to all courses is determined by interview.

Mature students can participate in any of the Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses that are offered by Whitehall College, or you may choose to participate in one of our specific VTOS courses.

What is VTOS?

VTOS means 'vocational training opportunity scheme'. VTOS gives unemployed adults the opportunity of returning to full-time education without losing their social welfare payments.

How will it benefit me?

• Prepare you to go to paid employment
• Prepare you for further education opportunities
• Provide you with an increased range of lifestyle options
• Skills acquisition

You will also:

• Receive a small lunch allowance and may be entitled to a travel allowance depending on the distance between your home and the college
• Receive books and materials free of charge
• There is a bonus for those who are in receipt of one of the social welfare payments for more than one year
• There is limited financial support available for childcare for those using registered childminders

How much will it cost?

Courses are provided free of charge

What courses can I do?

You may apply for any of the PLC courses that are offered by the college. However, our specific VTOS courses include: (click to view course info - opens in a new window)

• Business through Computers
• English Language for Overseas Students
• English Language (ESOL) & Business Studies
• English Language & Health Care for Overseas Students
• Art & Sculpture Foundation
• Art & Sculpture Advanced
• Warehousing

All courses are subject to a minimum number of participants, however if this minimum number is not reached, you may be eligible for another of our courses.

Can I join?

Yes, if you are over 21 years of age and in receipt of one of the following for a minimum of 156 days:

• Unemployment Benefit
• Unemployment Assistance
• One-Parent Family Payment
• Invalidity Pension
• Disability Allowance
• Disability Benefit (subject to obtaining permission from section)

Dependant spouses and those signing for 'credits' who meet these criteria are also eligible to participate in the scheme, but will not receive an allowance. Periods spent on FAS or Community Employment Schemes can count towards the six months qualifying period, but the applicants must be getting one of the social welfare payments immediately before starting the course.

NB: Places are limited and allocated on a first come basis.

For further information on Adult Education or VTOS in Whitehall College you can contact the VTOS co-ordinator, Joyce Trimble.

 

 

Related pages:

► Admissions
► Application form