Adult Refugee Programme

County Kilkenny VEC Adult Education Service began working with a group of over 30 Sudanese Programme Refugees who arrived in Kilkenny during the summer of 2008.  In all a group of over 70 people came to live in the city.  Life in Ireland is very different to the life which our learners experienced in the Sudan and Uganda.

As part of the English Language and Socialisation Programme in Kilkenny we endeavour to offer a broad range of learning experiences and encourage active participation in events and activities at a local level.  Participation in local social and leisure activities is strongly encourgaged.  As part of the programme we have facilitated Carol singing at Christmas, visits to the library, festivals and hurling matches.  A number of local trips were arranged before the summer holidays including a trip to the Watergarden in Thomastown, the Castlecomer Discovery Park and Kilkenny Castle and Gardens.

Our aim is to meet the learning needs of the group by covering basic financial, educational and family topics using day to day life experience and promoting learner independence.  We emphasise the importance of learning to speak and write English so that they can understand and participate fully in their new lives in Kilkenny.

A number of participants successfully completed FETAC Modules at Level 3, including Communications, Personal Effectiveness, Computer Literacy, Career Information and Language.  Currently, a number of participants are working towards Level 3 Food & Cookery and Food & Nutrition.  A small number have moved to the local VTOS centre and a further two, to third level.   We are delighted with the progress that the learners have made since their arrivial.

Classes recommence in early September 
Contact: Helen.wordaid@gmail.com