FET Centre Drumshanbo adult learners participate in the Erasmus+ Programme

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) adult learners from the Further Education and Training Centre in Drumshanbo, under the auspices of Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Educational and Training Board (MSLETB), availed of the opportunity to Barcelona for 2 weeks work placement as part of the European Union funded, Erasmus+ programme. 

Accompanied by their tutors, on 24 April 2022 and 16 April 2023, 30 students had flights and accommodation paid for, in addition to a weekly living allowance. This was a fantastic opportunity for the learners of QQI Level 5 Business Administration, Health Nutrition and Food Science, Tourism with Business and Traditional Irish Music courses to gain hands-on experience of working in a cosmopolitan European city, in an organisation related to their vocational area.

With their welcoming staff members, the hosting organisations provided excellent work experiences for the learners. The Business Administration learners worked in the offices of different companies, the Health Nutrition and Food Science learners worked in a food processing plant and a health food shop, the Tourism students worked in research and marketing, and the reception area of different hostels and our Traditional Irish Music learners provided and participated in various workshops in Traditional Irish Music, Spanish music and music from various other countries and cultures.

In addition to gaining professional experience, the VTOS adult learners also increased their self-confidence and social skills, with the challenges faced during the programme - working in a new company, with new work colleagues from different nationalities; understanding the Metro system; constantly interacting with new people, were overcome with the help and comradeship of other members of the group. 

Created more than 35 years ago, the EU’s programme to support education, training, youth and sport. Erasmus+ 2021-2027 strongly focuses on social inclusion, green and digital transitions, and promoting young people's participation in democratic life. It is estimated that over 13 million people have participated in the programme. 

If you are interested in the FET Centre Drumshanbo courses and would like to join on such trips, please call Seán Bailey on 086-0624200, email seanbailey@msletb.ie, contact FET through Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/VTOSLeitrim or website www.vtosleitrim.ie (currently under reconstruction).