Expand+The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme is an educational opportunities scheme for unemployed persons which is funded by the Department of Education and Science with assistance from the European Social Fund. The Scheme is operated through the Vo...

Hide-The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme is an educational opportunities scheme for unemployed persons which is funded by the Department of Education and Science with assistance from the European Social Fund. The Scheme is operated through the Vocational Education Committees and provides a special range of courses designed to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people.

The aims of the scheme are:
- to give unemployed people education and training opportunities which will develop their employability

- to prepare people to go into paid employment or on to further opportunities leading to paid employment

Expand+Eligibility criteria are determined by the Department of Education and Skills.

To qualify for VTOS a person must:
- be at least 21 years of age at the commencement of the course,

- be in receipt of an unemployment payment or signing for c...

Hide-Eligibility criteria are determined by the Department of Education and Skills.

To qualify for VTOS a person must:
- be at least 21 years of age at the commencement of the course,

- be in receipt of an unemployment payment or signing for credits for at least 6 months*.

Also, the course must be provided or approved by the local VEC for the purposes of the VTOS scheme.

A limited number of places are available to persons in receipt of One Parent Family Payment, Disability Allowance, Illness Benefit, Blind Pension, Invalidity Pension, Deserted Wife's Benefit/Allowance, Widow's/Widower's Contributory/Non Contributory Pension and Prisoner's Wife's Allowance and to qualified spouses/partners of persons eligible to participate in VTOS.

Periods spent on VTOS, FS training schemes, Community Employment, Job Initiative, Youthreach or time in prison can count towards the 6 month qualifying period.

Expand+Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this programme learners will be able to:
1 Define the role of the cultural heritage product in Ireland and compare to international products

2 Evaluate a range of current issues in relation to s...

Hide-Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this programme learners will be able to:
1 Define the role of the cultural heritage product in Ireland and compare to international products

2 Evaluate a range of current issues in relation to sustainable heritage conservation

3 Discuss the work of the main bodies involved in the support, development, protection and promotion of Irish culture, heritage and natural resources

4 Summarise key aspects of the course of Irish history from the earliest times to present day

5 Explain the origin, antiquity, key literary genres and current status of the Irish language

6 Identify international cultures and traditions which have been influenced by the Irish and link with visitors’ origins accordingly

7 Outline Ireland’s archaeological heritage and its UNESCO World Heritage sites

8 Outline the evolution of Irish cuisine and beverages

9 Explain the history and status of the current agriculture, forestry and maritime resources in Ireland

10 Describe significant natural and physical features of Ireland

11 Examine the development and location of arts and crafts and associated industries in Ireland

12 Summarise the major phases, styles and examples of Ireland’s architectural heritage

13 Analyse Ireland’s cultural heritage across different genres and its perception internationally

14 Create an information bank on likely topics of interest to clients

15 Demonstrate how other nationalities and ethnic groups have influenced the development of Ireland’s culture and built heritage

Ref: 45395

Facilities
•Free Parking
•Pay Parking
•Wheel Chair Access
•Tea/Coffee Making

Expand+This course will commence in Autumn 2017 for the award of Regional Tour Guiding 6S20233. It is offered in conjunction with the Burren Outdoor Education Centre, Carron, Co. Clare.

VTOS is a full-time programme (academic year) for Adults aged 21 and...

Hide-This course will commence in Autumn 2017 for the award of Regional Tour Guiding 6S20233. It is offered in conjunction with the Burren Outdoor Education Centre, Carron, Co. Clare.

VTOS is a full-time programme (academic year) for Adults aged 21 and over, who are in receipt of a qualifying DSP payment, or the spouse or partner of a qualified adult. Courses are free and you get to keep your DSP payment. U25's may be entitled to a top-up payment. There may be some minimal costs associated with this course. Childcare Supports are offered under the CETS scheme.

Regional Tour Guiding 6S20233 is designed for people who wish to provide a range of regional and local guiding services to visitors. It will equip learners with the knowledge, skill and competence to facilitate an understanding and appreciation of Irish cultural, built and natural heritage, using a variety of research methodologies.

Further Details
This is joint pilot programme between Ennis VTOS and The Burren Outdoor Education and Training Centre. It will involve a range of classroom and outdoor elements. It will also involve some overnight stays in the BOEC.
A
dditional modules as electives will be offered. Non-certified support classes are also offered.