NLN Sligo Blog

Hello! My name is David! - 25 August 2023

Hello my name is David and I would like to share my experience as a student attending National Learning Network, Sligo. Since I joined the Career Pathways Program, I have developed new skills, and embraced new opportunities for my own individual growth every day. I have improved my communication skills and I feel my confidence has grown. While at first I did find it difficult in the program, as I don’t like big changes to happen in my life all at once, but once I started I found having a structure to my day really helped me: An everyday example of this is, getting up at a certain time each morning, preparing my breakfast, arranging myself before I get the train, walking from train station to the centre, attending class, getting to know my class mates and completing modules. I actually started to find that I enjoyed attending class, and looked forward to each day.

One of my greatest hobbies is drawing faces and I find solace in artistic expression. There’s something magical about capturing the essence of individuals, conveying emotions, and expressing my creativity. Attending National Learning Network has provided me with a supportive environment where I can make time to improve my skills and explore various techniques.

I have had my own challenges in life, but adult education and work experience has taught me to embrace them as opportunities for growth. I've learned to adapt, seek support when needed, and never give up on my dreams. I do feel I am working towards another long term goal with the support of my occupational therapist and her team that she has put in place for me. They have been aware that I would eventually like to live independently, and they are making this happen for me all be it at a few nights a week at present.

Another long term goal that I have longed for is to get back in to the work force. I have just started work experience at the charity shop, Essential Seconds, Telling Street, Ballymote, County Sligo. I am very grateful for my occupational therapist for organising this placement, and the manager for this opportunity also. I find this a very rewarding opportunity and aside from pursuing my passion for art; I have also had the privilege of gaining valuable work experience at this local charity shop. This opportunity has been immensely fulfilling and has opened my eyes to the impact of community involvement.

In the charity shop, I've had the chance to interact with customers and assist in organising merchandise. Every day brings new challenges and learning experiences. Not only have I improved my organisational skills, but I've also developed a greater sense of empathy and understanding for the needs of others. Working at the charity shop has shown me that everyone can make a difference, regardless of their abilities. It's heart-warming to witness the collective effort of volunteers and staff members, all working towards a common goal of supporting those in need. Through this experience, I have gained valuable skills and grown as an individual.

My journey so far by attending adult education at National Learning Network has been an incredible opportunity for my personal growth and self-discovery. From nurturing my love for drawing faces to broadening my education and life skills modules, and gaining practical work experience, I have become more confident and inspired person.

I would like to continue to pursue my hobbies, and at present contribute to the community. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities I've been given. I would like to thank a number of people for helping me so far on my journey; the instructors at National Learning Network are incredibly patient and knowledgeable, ensuring that each student receives personalised attention and guidance. These programs not only provide a supportive environment but also foster a sense of community among like-minded individuals. I would like to acknowledge my occupational therapist team who has made this possible and both my parents and family.

Here are a few pictures I have drawn of famous Irish soccer players.

Thank you for taking the time to read my time so far at National Learning Network.

Button
Button
Button

Hello! My name is Iryna! - 27 June 2023

I am from Ukraine and came to Ireland to continue my studies, I joined the National Learning Network, Sligo. Since I joined I have met very friendly people that attend the centre. All the staff has been very supportive in helping me adapt to my new living situation. They teach me to communicate with other people in English, help me gain new knowledge and practical skills in mastering the course Career Pathways.

My training takes place using an individual approach. Classes are held in groups using presentations and practical materials for each student. My Instructor Mick explains each task to me and helps me find the right solutions. I go to classes with other resource teachers who teach me English, mathematical skills, and logical thinking. I really like attending events where we, together with our teachers, communicate with each other. This is very interesting and educational.

I feel that all teachers take great care of their students, and help them in all matters. I also attend an evening course, completing Teacher Training and my instructor Mick has given me good direction when I needed it in how to prepare and compose my project. He was interested in the topic of my evening project, on my evening course.

Many thanks to all Instructors!!! They are professionals in their field who know the purpose of training and how to achieve the goals. This is a team of people who help and care for their students and teach professional skills that will help in their future profession!

24 April 2023 - Samuel's Story

Hello my name is Samuel, and I completed my leaving cert in June 2022 in Summerhill College Sligo, since then I decided I would like to continue my educational journey and joined National Learning Network (NLN), in October 2022, after having taken some time off during the summer.

I was initially worried about how I was going to be able to navigate college life, but the support and resources provided by National Learning Network have exceeded my expectations. From the very first day at NLN all the staffs have been very welcoming and accommodating. They have taken the time to listen to my needs and worked with me to create a plan for my educational and personalised success. Beyond the educational support, (NLN) is designed with inclusion in mind.

I joined the Transition program when I first attended (NLN), and my instructor Susan arranged a 2 week sampling period, this is to see if I liked the program. I was very happy that I had a good experience during this time, I was a bit nervous at first, but It’s like everything else a person needs get acquainted to their new surroundings when they start to do something new, but I must say Susan was very understanding, supportive and reassured me that most students felt the same when they start their new journey.

Susan guided me through my Nutrition & Healthy Options module; this module was made enjoyable because the way the coursework was explained with text and images that I could understand. Susan discussed and explained the basics of the food safety; it listed common dietary disorders and also described the human digestive process. In this module there was a skills demonstration element to it where I researched a vegetarian meal of my choice and then cooked this meal of my choice.

I have now moved to another program called Career Pathways, and my new Instructor is Mick and he is now supporting me in my journey with NLN. Mick has talked about the different modules that will be covered and how best to approach them. NLN is not like school you don’t get homework and the instructors are very relaxed but also guide you on your journey.

I really like art and anytime I feel like taking some time out from my module work, I will take out my sketch pad and start working on my drawings, I have a preference that I like to draw (Anime, Pirate’s & Creatures), I feel comfortable and in a happy place when sketching in detail. I also go to number 45 each Tuesday to participate in their art classes.

NLN have provided me with going to tennis classes with the help of Sligo Sports Partnership, I enjoy taking part with other students and making new friends, it is another way of getting a little bit fitter, I was in a walking group on a Thursday were we would meet at the centre and walk over to Doorley park, this is another way I find that is helping me become more fitter and meeting other (NLN) students. I have shown an interest in the past around gardening and once again (NLN) has done there research and has organised for me to sample the garden centre in Cranmore estate Sligo, to see if this is what I really like. Since joining National Learning Network I have been very busy in a good way, with QQI module work and my personal interests I am very happy to have joined NLN.

Overall I would highly recommend NLN College to anyone as this college truly values and supports all its students, providing welcoming environment that allows students to excel our education and personal journey.

21 March 2023 - Lizzie Coen article Irish Times

Be sure to check out Lizzie's article in the Irish Times this week.

https://www.irishtimes

Lizzie is a former student of ours who successfully completed both the Transition course and the Customer Service course and is now studying psychology at John Moores University in Liverpool.

In the article Lizzie talks of her struggles with with mental health and how it affected her early education and how NLN played a pivotal role in her suceeding to gain a place at university.

“Little did I know that I would gain so much more than that over the three years. At NLN, we were all at different levels and different ages. I felt that I had a bit more control and more of a say over my own education, and it was really flexible.

“I didn’t have to do an intensive piece of work at a set time: I could do the work, but I could also go and have a break, wander to the bathroom if I needed to. Little things like being able to get myself a drink of water and work at my own pace really mattered. I could be more independent and I could work at my own pace.

“I loved the class dynamic. I was surrounded by other people who had similar difficulties to me and we all worked independently, with very little pressure. We got to make decisions for ourselves while also having access to support from our instructor, Elaine, or the resource teachers if needed.”

Lizzie hopes to support autistic people in psychological and psychiatric services and to use her own experiences and understanding to bring about changes in how mental health services work.

Best of luck Lizzie with your studies and everything you do in the future.

14 September 2022 - Shania Gorevan

I have just completed the Customer Service course at NLN Sligo. I really enjoyed the 2 aspects of the course, both the theory in the classroom and the opportunity to have on the job training in the workplace. The course really prepares you for a job and builds your skills and confidence. I was lucky to have a wonderful work placement at Carraig Donn Sligo where I learned so much and was truly part of the team. I completed the modules at my own pace and appreciated the fact that it brought me routine in my life. I always wanted to go to University – that was my goal and with the help of Elaine I have now been successful in being offered a place at ATU Donegal to study Culinary Arts and I will be starting in two weeks.

I feel Elaine tries to get to know all her students really well and will go out of her way to help everyone reach their full potential. The overall environment at NLN Sligo is great if you are looking to get back into education or find work. There are loads of supports available and everyone makes time for you.

I am so glad I completed this course and would highly recommend NLN Sligo as a place to get an education while also growing as a person and gaining confidence and positivity.

Shania Gorevan

21 January 2022 - Siobhan O'Donovan

“More than just another course”

I joined the Customer Service course in June 2021. The modules were great, 8 modules altogether, I learned a lot. The teacher Elaine is brilliant. Her style of teaching is very good, she is very professional, helpful, kind and caring. She encourages us and motivates us to do the work in a laid back environment where we still achieve excellent results.

The course work is brilliant, very interesting modules. The 8 modules are Customer Service, Team-working, IT Skills, Stock Control, Retail Sales Techniques, Retail Payment Procedure, Work Experience and Communications.

The Stock control module is very good. It’s a good qualification to have if you want to work in a shop. The Team-working module is my favourite. I learned that I am definitely a team player and that I work well with people.

You work at your own pace at N.L.N College. Studying and course work is good for us, it works your brain cells and improves your concentration and you learn new things about retail and customer service.

The students in the class are great. I built up a good rapport with them all. I enjoyed the chats and laughs. Elaine is a superb teacher with great sense of humour. I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the customer service course, an experience I will always remember. I had Angela the resource teacher to help with Maths and English, she is a fantastic teacher and fantastic person.

It has been a great experience at NLN Sligo. I have grown so much as a person. The course has made me focus on what I want to do for the future, courses and part time work. This course has made me a more focused and motivated person and I highly recommend it.

Siobhan O’ Donovan

19 April 2021 - Brian Martyn

Hi, my Name is Brian, I'm 25, and I recently completed the Customer Service Course at NLN with Elaine as my Instructor. I immediately got offered work in O'Hehir's, Sligo so many thanks to them for taking me on despite the tough times we are all going through at the moment.

When I started at NLN, I was a very nervous, quiet person mainly because after I lost my Dad in 2014, anxiety and depression had a firm grip on me so my confidence was low. I had to find a way to keep going, even though many times I wanted to throw in the towel, I never gave in. I heard about the Customer Service and Retail Sales course from a friend so I went in and met with Elaine who assured me of the supports I would be offered. I successfully completed many modules, did a work experience placement at Mr Price and my confidence grew. These past few months I am a completely different person. Thanks to the staff of NLN and O'Hehir's, close family and friends for motivating me and supporting me. I've been posting online cooking videos too and it is proving to be both fun and successful on Tiktok. After a lot of doubts in the past, I can keep going forward without thinking of even looking back. Your health is your wealth folks so if you feel the need to talk, reach out and talk, it’s OK not to be OK, as the old saying goes, time is a healer. Thank you all again for your amazing support.

5th February 2021

Hi, my name is Lorraine and I am a student at National Learning Network (NLN) Sligo, on the Jobstart programme.

I started in NLN on the 16th of September in 2019. Before I innately started I had two previous appointments to meet with the manager but became very anxious on both occasions and cancelled both appointments. I was first told about NLN from my then counsellor that I was attending in Sligo. She felt that I would benefit from going back to re-educate myself and put some daily structure in to my life, I have been a stay at home mother to my three lovely girls for the last 17 years and it was a little of me time now. This was a goal I set myself when I first started attending counselling sessions, another main goal was to return to the working environment.

I joined the Jobstart programme in September 2019 and it has set me on a journey that has given me a new lease of life and I now have a better outlook in life largely down to my own hard work. Before I joined NLN I had spent the last 17 years at home bringing up my family and over time lost the confidence in myself to do things outside the home. I was innately worried I wouldn’t be able to manage the course and still be a good mother to my three girls. I had reservation about myself and I’ve always been good at talking myself out of things, but this felt different from the start.

The support I have received since attending the centre has been amazing. My Instructor Mick has always been there to guide me, he explained all the module materiel in different types of scenarios and use a mixture of real life examples so I could relate too, and this made the understanding of what was being asked so much easier. One of my goals was made so much easier to achieve by the way modules were communicated to me this way. I linked in with the centres rehabilitation officer regularly to seek advice and she has been a great resource helping me with personal problems that are ongoing.

The rehabilitation officer and Mick, my instructor approached me and asked if I would represent our centre at a regional conference meeting in Dublin, I felt extremely proud to be asked and I was delighted with the prospect of meeting other students from all the different centres throughout Ireland, I really enjoyed the conference immensely (I had never been to anything like this before), it was great to mingle with other students and see some of the work that goes on in the different NLN centres. It was a great opportunity and I thoroughly enjoyed the day. I have in the past linked in with NLN rehabilitation psychologist Rita, she has also been a great support with issues that I had been dealing with. I also attend resource classes with Angela, she is our-in centre resource teacher. She helps me with maths, spelling, and grammar and much more, she is a lovely lady with great patience. Since I returned to re-education at NLN I feel I am a lot happier and my girls keep telling me how proud they are of me for taking the first step towards my goals.

While at NLN I wanted to try work experience but I also wanted to do something that I enjoyed and was close to my heart. I spent 10 weeks every Thursday up in a Donkey Sanctuary in Castlebaldwin helping out with 70 donkeys and 30 horses. It was lovely to work with the animals they are mostly rescue animals, and they require a lot of care and love, It is sad to see how some people treat their animals (thankfully a small minority). My duties were to muck out the stables, bed the donkeys, feed them hay and buckets of nuts, groom them, letting them in and out of the stables. They are very well looked after now they are in good home at the sanctuary.

I have also secured a work experience in Centra store in Sligo and have been made so welcome in the deli department, I have learnt so much since starting there and the staff and management/owners have been extremely helpful and understanding towards me.

I am delighted to say that the management at Centra have offered me a job and I was delighted to accept this, I have now completed another goal I set myself.

My time is now nearing completion at NLN and I will be sad to leave, I want to say I have learnt so much since joining this programme, I now believe knowledge is power and it does give you an advantage when going back into the workforce especially when preparing for an interview. I would never really have prepared for an interview prior to my time at NLN, but now I have learnt through experience, preparing for an interview and all the challenges that come with the preparation before you sit an interview is enormous and very challenging but very essential, I feel I have grown in self-confidence throughout my time at NLN, another example of this is, I have learned a great deal about computers on this course, at the start I would refer to them as aliens because I didn’t know my way round them but slowly I am getting better thanks to the patience of my instructor Mick. All the staff take an interest in us and show a great deal of compassion, this makes such a difference as this makes you feel that you’re really appreciated as a student and not just another number in a classroom.

I have made a lot of new supportive friends that have all been in the similar situation as myself or have their own story to tell, I have to say I’m really enjoyed the experience and am looking forward to my next chapter in life.

I would recommend anyone that is looking for a challenge and not quite sure what to do next, why not give NLN a call they may be in a position to give you advice. I know it was the best thing I done.

NLN Before Covid-19

Hi my name is Aine and I am a student hoping to join the Jobstart programme in Sligo’s NLN.

I started sampling the course on 2nd of March 2020; I was really enjoying having a routine getting up early in the morning and catching the Bus Eireann into the centre. I loved getting out of the house and going into NLN, it gave me a daily purpose. At first I was very nervous and anxious about starting the course and I thought I wouldn’t be able for the work load. My instructor Mick explained to me that I would be able to work at a pace that would suite me and we would work on one module at a time. I was only sampling 2 weeks when the news came from the government that we were going in to a lock down nationally due to Covid-19 for a period of time until it was safe to return.

Working from Home

When we were informed the centre was closing from 12/03/20, and that we would start working from home using NLN’s E – learning system. I found this system easy to navigate as Mick had given us all a tutorial and printouts beforehand on how to navigate through the system. I found it was a good way of learning when we could not be face to face in the classroom. I engaged with my instructor using emails, phone calls and text every day. I would also contact my instructor when I need extra help on parts of the module, that I found difficult or if I need something clarified throughout the day. When I completed the daily tasks I would send them to Mick for correction through previously agreed channels; Email.

As time went on and I was completing the workbook module, I started to enjoy my time at home and found it suited. Mick offered me access every day to the Rehabilitation Officer (Jemima) providing support for any ongoing issues or concerns. Since I started sampling with National Learning Network, the support I received has been extremely beneficial to me for my education and also helping me make decisions for myself and having plan in place for the future.

Coming back to NLN

I had some reservation about returning to the centre; Bus Eireann have now gone from a 52 seater bus to a 22 seater bus, so it may be full when it arrives to my pickup point. Because of this, Mick has asked me to ring him and he will email me work to complete for the day if this happens. I was also worried about how safe the centre would be when I arrived but my instructor was there to meet me at a set time and gave me a tour around the building, he showed me all the new protocols that have been put in place to insure all our safety. When I now arrive at the centre, I can instantly see the changes at the front door there are yellow lines sprayed on the footpath reminding us that we need to keep our 2 meter social distance at all times. My instructor has been involved in making the centre safe. For example, when you arrive in to the centre; you are now required to have your temperature checked before entering. There is a one way system in place throughout the building, we only have a certain amount of students in the class room at any one time, you can see plenty of signs relating to Covid19 and keeping safe. These are good as it reminds me to keep safe such as washing hands on regular intervals, as this is one way of helping to reduce the spread.

Since returning, I feel safe and have started to enjoy the class settling in once again and getting back into a routine. I’m currently working on the Career Planning module and I hope to register with NLN very shortly. National Learning Network has really looked after me when I needed it most and I would recommend anyone that wants to return to education or needs help to steer their future to consider joining.

Aine.

4th November 2020 -

Life Under Lockdown

Hi there my name is Liam and I am writing to share my Covid experience with you all, and how it affected me personally. I know that the lockdown situation was not good for many people but since it looks as though we may enter into a second wave of the Covid lockdown I feel as though it is important to share my initial experience and give those who are going through a hard time a look into how it was for me so they can see that they weren’t the only ones to be struggling through the first wave of this hellacious pandemic.

It all began towards the end of March. We were told suddenly one day that we would have three weeks off. Initially I felt overjoyed that I would be getting a break and looked at this as a mini holiday away from college. However my opinion quickly shifted as the news broke to me that the centre wasn’t going to re-open for a while and that I would need to work from home, which is never easy when you live in a hectic house.

After the first week it felt less like a holiday and more like being trapped like a gorilla at the zoo. As time went on it just got worse. Tensions rose as did stress levels and I got into some very bad habits. By the third week I was twenty two stone and incredibly unhealthy. As we reached the start of the second month I took a good hard look at myself and decided it was time to make a serious change in the way I was living. I quit all sugar including energy drinks, to which I was incredibly addicted.

I also quit smoking the same day and got a vape which was a shock to the system as I had smoked at least forty cigarettes a day. I woke up every morning shaking and struggling to catch my breath, unable to even move. My body was shaking that much I felt as though I was glued to my bed.

I stuck it out and began working out for an hour twice a day along with walking for hours at a time and managed to lose nearly eight stone. However I was still not healthy as I wouldn’t eat for days at a time and continued working out which just ran my body into the ground. Me and my mother had butted heads one too many times towards the end of the lockdown causing me to finally get out of that toxic and controlling environment, moving out on my own and cutting all ties with her for the safety of everyone involved.

Some good did come out of the lockdown in the end. I am now in a serious relationship and focusing a lot more on my future and what is best for me and my partner. Which can only be a good thing. I urge you all to look for the next stage in your lives.

Don’t let this lockdown or this virus hold you back. Just because it might not be easy doesn’t mean it’s not possible. Fight through the hard times to get what you want in life. The best things in life are not free or easy but the end goal is still the same; you just have to rise above the hate and cut the people holding you back out of your lives.

Liam

My experience on the ‘Blended Learning’ course in 2020

by Shanice Corrigan

In November of 2018 I started the Information Technology by Blended Learning course in National Learning Network, Sligo. It is a QQI Level 5 course and involves studying in the college 2 days a week and working from home 3 days a week. The course suits me perfectly as I have a lot of medical appointments and I need to recuperate and rest afterwards. Studying through blended learning gives me the best of both worlds and allows me to work from home when it would be hard to come in to college. I want to get work as a personal assistant or work in an office.

By 2020 I had completed several modules. I had made friends and enjoyed my two days in the college and three days studying at home. In March of this year I was preparing for exams and looking at possible work experience placements when Covid-19 brought the country into lockdown. I was now studying from home 5 days a week.

At the beginning of lockdown I really missed being in the centre. It was fine doing work from home sometimes but it is good to be able to have face to face communication with my instructor, Audrey, especially if you get stuck on something. Also, I am a people person and I love talking to people. Now it is impossible. Studying from home all the time was challenging as it got boring at times. On top of that I couldn’t see my friends.

Studying from home made it a little difficult to stick to deadlines. I needed to organise myself at home and decided not to work from my bedroom but took over the spare bedroom as my study place. This worked well for me. I completed the Text Production module and all I needed to do when I came back was the exam. During lockdown I continued writing creatively and began to write a new story. I sent the drafts off to Angela and made many changes throughout as I thought of new ideas. I even developed the characters and used the Character Creator App to bring my characters to life and develop the personalities.

I am currently working on an assignment to do with Communications. Part of my task in my assignment is about the way we communicate with each other and the ways of communicating today in the world. First you would pick a topic on communications and research and write about it. Next you need to give it a title; the title I choose was the History of Communications. There also is other module’s to take part in throughout the course.

After lockdown I got a new tattoo dedicated to my favourite singer. I designed it myself and the tattoo artist was very impressed. It was something I had been thinking of for a long while but lockdown meant that I couldn’t get it done.

Now that I’m back, it feels great! I’m looking forward to starting the new module in Reception and Frontline Office Skills. I’ve already completed two exams and I got to see everyone again, to talk to them and to see how they got on during lockdown. That was the main topic of conversation: “How did you get on during lockdown?”

I think differently now. I don’t take life for granted. I realise the importance of the little things that I missed during lockdown, like just spending time with friends. I also think that if there is stuff on your mind, talk things out with people – don’t keep it inside. I realised the importance of keeping good mental health as a lot of people suffered with their mental health during lockdown. I learnt to enjoy the time spent with my family and not to take anything for granted. You never know what’s just around the corner.

16th October 2020 -

My Blended Learning Experience

When I was seeking a career change I found an advertisement in a local Newspaper regarding National Learning Network in Sligo.

I rang the phone number provided and I spoke with one of the tutors. She was most helpful and I found that the college had many supports in place for students.

I studied on the ‘IT and Tourism by Blended Learning’ course. I found that this was suited to me as I was in the College 2 days per week, and studied at home for the other 3 days.

I found getting back to study was not as difficult as I thought it would be. The college has a very friendly atmosphere and a very positive attitude to diversity.

I also found that I could start straight away and I was delighted to get started.

My tutors were always very approachable and helpful, despite their having very busy schedules.

The 2 years have passed very quickly and I would recommend using the college as a career pathway to anybody thinking of a career change.

Margaret

Eileen Chambers Lockdown Story

I am a student in NLN Sligo and I am doing the IT and Office Skills course and I’ve been studying this course now just over a year. Back in March this year I was doing the Data Base module (Microsoft Access) and my tutor Dermot was always at hand to help me to understand the module. Class life was great. I always had a great laugh with my friends and I was also reading the story of Alcatraz with the help of my tutor Angela. On Thursday the 12th of March all of this suddenly changed when we got the news that the government had advised us to work from home for two weeks starting from Friday the 13th. This was to protect all of the country’s population from catching Covid-19 and to slow the spread of the virus. At first when I heard this I was calm and not too worried, but when a few weeks had passed the seriousness of the virus began to worsen and we were still not back in college. I began to panic and I was terrified.

Within a short space of time, working from home, wearing a mask and sanitising whenever I went anywhere became the new normal. I kept regular contact with my tutors, Dermot and Angela, and support staff, Jemima and Rita, by email, phone, video chat and post. Keeping this contact with my tutors and support staff really gave me great encouragement and motivation to continue with a normal routine and daily life. The extra support from Dermot, Angela, Jemima and Rita didn’t only just help me with doing my college work but helped me make the new normal feel that little bit more normal and took my mind away from all the chaos and frightening reality of the effects of Covid-19 worldwide. During lockdown, while self-isolating, I completed my Data Base Module, Work Experience Portfolio, Maths, Reading and writing. I did all my work and watched some movies on the new laptop I had purchased.

As time passed I thought lockdown was never going to end. I took part in the NLN Sligo Facebook competitions. Even though I didn’t submit my work I really enjoyed doing them. The competitions inspired me to cook and do some gardening. When I first heard we were returning to college I was jumping for joy and felt ecstatic as I was looking forward to not only getting into a routine, but I was looking forward to being amongst my friends in college again.

Even though college is not the way it was and everything is very strange, I am still so glad to be back. There are yellow arrows taped on the ground indicating which way and side of the corridors you can walk in the college, to promote social distancing. The corridors remind me of my favourite programme, CSI, because of the yellow tape and hazard signs. These are on areas such as doors and switches that are touched quite a lot (this is to remind us to sanitise or wash our hands after touching areas such as these). In class we are all socially distanced and I feel very safe. We have rules to follow which protect us all from the virus such as wearing a mask, sanitising our hands and temperature checks every day at the college entrance. The new normal is very strange, but I’ve never been so happy to be back in college having a laugh with my friends and learning new things every day. It’s absolutely fantastic to be back in college and I am ever so grateful for all of the help I received during the lockdown.

25th August 2020

During Covid by Chloe Waters

When March 2020 began, Covid for me meant isolation as it did for so many, not regarding age. When Covid began none of us knew what would happen.

Covid has now affected thousands of people all over the country both young and old. Many people in March began cocooning or self- isolating.

Cocooning means limiting the amount of social contacts you have or only seeing the people you live with or your family in other words.

As a result, our daily routines of heading into National Learning Network had been interrupted and we worked from home.

The first few weeks were very strange not been able to go anywhere but thankfully with the aid of technology we were able to access our e-mails, download and print our work. This for me has really helped me to stay focused and keeping to my normal routine of NLN.

Thanks to the staff at NLN for their continuous support with messages, e-mails and little tasks to keep us focused during these strange, unprecedented times, without this support at the end of the phone I’m not sure how I would feel.

I have talked to my instructor Alison today about the protocols and procedures of operation in the building when we return to the building in the very near future.

My Anxiety is a little bit high about the thought of returning to NLN but thankfully Alison spoke to me and went through the different procedures for when we return to the building in the very near future.

After talking to Alison I felt reassured that I am safe and if I need any support it will be provided.

9th July 2020

Kess’s Story

My name is Kessaven and I am from Mauritius. I came across National Learning Network when I was researching courses to go back to education. I was interested in finding out more about it so I arranged to visit the college in Sligo. There I met with Atlanta and the manager, Sharon. I found them to be very professional and they were also very helpful. I was convinced after the meeting that this was what I was looking for.

It was a while since I had been in education but I decided that I would like to try it out. I completed the application form and went to meet with Niamh who is the recruitment officer, Niamh talked to me about the different courses that were on offer at National Learning Network. I was interested in three different courses and Niamh said that I could sample each of them to help me make my decision. This was a great opportunity for me as I was able to try out the different courses and see which one worked best for me.

I also met Rita, National Learning Networks in-house psychologist, Rita meets with all new students. She is a very professional person and very kind. In fact she donated flowers and vegetables to support my garden project during this difficult Covid 19 Pandemic.

I sampled the different courses and in the end I chose the Jobstart course. The instructor, Michael, was very helpful and I found him very accessible and approachable and always available like all the staff at National Learning Network. I was able to complete my studies and explore what I wanted to do with my life. As I come to the end of the course, I realise that I have learnt a lot and I am happy to say that I have also achieved QQI Level 3 Certificates for my work.

I think Jobstart was a great course for me and it has helped me to prepare for a higher level of education. I have really enjoyed my time here. I have been given great support from my instructor and from the resource teachers, Angela, who helped me with my writing and English language skills and always with a smile, and Collette, who helped me with my mathematics. During my time I was able to complete an external module Health and Fitness.

I have enjoyed my time in National Learning Network. I got involved in different college activities. I worked on the in-house magazine. I took part in a soccer tournament. We went on a trip to Croke Park and I went on the sky walk, the knowledge I learnt about the city from our tour guide was very impressive. I also got involved in a number of social activities and I was able to pursue my own interests, such as badminton. I have made life-long friends here and will always remember the times spent with my friends, having coffee in Catherine’s canteen – where we always received a warm welcome.

I think that National Learning Network has a special approach and we students are very well supported here. It is a place where I have been able to build my confidence and prepare for the next step in my life.

Last year, Philip White came to our college to give a presentation on the Diploma in Foundation Studies, Access Course, at St Angela’s College. I went along and listened to what Philip had to say. The course sounded very interesting to me and it seemed that this would be a good route for me to take as I am interested in higher education and in a career in food and nutrition. There have been many obstacles in my life but in National Learning Network I have been supported and encouraged to achieve my goals. This year I followed my dream and applied for the course at St Angela’s College. I am delighted to say that I have been offered a place on the Diploma in Foundation Studies Course and I will begin my studies there in September. I feel that I am now able to look forward and have a good life and a good job. I am glad that I took the chance to return to education and that I found a place where I was welcomed and where I was able to achieve so much.

My Story: By Blathín Langan

I struggled with many parts of school when I was a child and a teenager, due to health issues. I had to leave school and although I tried to return for third and fourth year in secondary school, it didn’t work out. Because of this, I was homeschooled instead. It worked for me at the time, but when I did my Leaving Certificate examinations, I didn’t achieve the results I wanted. I began to look for somewhere that I could go and be able to study and achieve more qualifications when I found out about National Learning Network. I went to visit the college in Bridge Street and I joined the Transition Group. It seemed just right for me and I found that this course suited me and I was able to learn and take part in the day to day activities of the group. I was even getting better grades and test scores. I achieved a Level 3 award in Employability Skills and achieved certificates at Level 4. I had found a place that would help me to learn new skills and achieve my goals.

During the final months of my course I began to look at what I might do next and I started sampling the Information Technology and Office Skills Course. After three weeks sampling, I knew it was the course for me and signed up. I really enjoyed coming in every day because I loved the subjects on offer and I found that I was able to do the work, which made me more confident. I also found that I had support and help whenever I needed it. I was very proud to achieve a QQI Level 5 award in IT and Administration and I was also happy to have made lifelong friends at National Learning Network.

Towards the end of this course I began to look at what I might do and started applying for jobs. I got a job interview, and was offered a position, thanks to my tutors for their help in preparing me for the interview. I also applied to do the Access Course in St Angela’s College as I wanted to progress to higher education. I am happy to say that I have been offered a place on the course and thanks to my time at National Learning Network, I know I can succeed and I know that I will be able to participate fully in this next stage of my education.

My time at National Learning Network has encouraged me to apply for the courses I want to do, to go to interviews and to look for jobs. It has helped me so much as I know now that I can achieve more than I thought. I am a lot happier, and feel better about myself than I did before thanks to the help and support I received at the National Learning Network.

4th June 2020

Patrick Cronin - My Story: 'I struggled for months but then found a place that was perfect'

Patrick Cronin was delighted with his CAO offer of a mechanical engineering course, and grabbed the opportunity with relish.

"I was so happy and excited to leave home and start my life as an adult; everything was perfect at that time," says Patrick.

But his first year in college proved stressful. While he enjoyed many aspects of the Level 7 course at IT Sligo, two subjects were causing him bother, and he also started struggling with his mental health.

"With the stress and anxiety it eventually all became too much. I had never dealt with this type of stress before and, even though I had my friends with me, I started to feel alone," says Patrick.

He ended up dropping out, but opted to stay in Sligo, to seek work or some other training opportunity.

"I struggled for months before finally hearing about a place that sounded perfect to me," says Patrick. That was the National Learning Network (NLN), part of the Rehab Group, which has training colleges all over the country taking on students who either have a disability, illness or mental health issue, and gives them the training and skills to either get a job or go on to further education/third level. Courses are QQI accredited.

Among the attractions for Patrick was that "unlike other courses, you could start at any time of the year as everyone goes at their own pace.

"I wanted to build myself back up again to get ready for college, no matter what it took to do so, as well as fixing my mental health problems."

Patrick signed up for an office skills and IT course, and, with the help of his tutor, and a counsellor, "after a few months, I began to see what I could achieve."

With access to a counsellor at any time, Patrick says he "decided to take the initiative and talk to her and figure out what I needed to do to help myself to find some peace and become the person I wanted to be."

He also loved the course "as there was no pressure as to when a module had to be finished. I also liked the fact you can get one-on-one help from your tutor; this was such a big help for the difficult tasks."

His confidence building all the time, Patrick subsequently secured employment in the retail industry and he says the NLN course and work experience "were invaluable when it came to me getting this job".

Now, he is ready to go back to college and will return to IT Sligo next month for a course which he believes will suit him better.

Patrick credits NLN with helping him "to achieve goals I never thought I'd reach and I now know I can achieve anything, while also getting out of my comfort zone and being a much happier and positive person.

"I cannot wait to start college again."

26th May 2020

Stephen's Story

My name is Stephen McIntyre, I am 29 years old and I am from Co. Sligo. I attended the National Learning Network in Sligo where I was the first person to sign up for the Horsemanship programme when it started up in 2013.

Before coming to NLN I didn’t have a lot going for me. I didn’t have any qualifications or any idea of where my life was going at the time. I left school after Junior Cert and worked in a factory for a few years but when the recession hit the work wasn’t there anymore. I didn’t see myself doing factory work forever and my dream job was to be working with horses.

I heard about NLN through word of mouth from other people who were doing courses there. I thought it might be suitable for me because if offered supported learning. The school system wasn’t best suited to me and the way I learn but at NLN you work on your own programme at your own pace with as much support as you need.

The Horsemanship programme suited my needs perfectly. I enjoyed the hands-on practical modules and I felt there was a good balance between the practical and academic work. I found it to be a very supportive environment where my personal development and well-being were being looked after too. I loved being around the horses and the horse-riding was my favourite part. I found that being around horses gives me great head-space and relief from any stresses in my day. I made friends for life on the course too, which made the course even more memorable for me.

Work placements are an integral part of the Horsemanship course and I did my placement with Cathal McMunn at Loughan Stables in Beltra, Co. Sligo in 2015. I was lucky enough to be offered employment there afterwards and I have been working there full-time since. Cathal is a very well respected professional showjumper who competes all over the country and working with him has given me the opportunity to travel the country to Ireland’s best shows. I have worked at the Dublin Horse Show, Balmoral, Milstreet and all of the local and regional shows. This has really broadened my horizons and allowed me to make connections both professionally and socially.

Cathal also gave me the opportunity to care for a horse called Promise as my own for a year. During this time I took him show-jumping and competed at jump-cross events, which was a fantastic experience.

My instructor at the NLN told me about Benbulben Riding Club and I joined the club in 2015. Being a club member improved my social skills and opened doors for me to share new experiences with like-minded people. I got the opportunity to compete at shows in a supportive environment among friends also, which I really enjoyed.

Through the Horsemanship course I was put in touch with the Teagasc Young Breeder’s Programme and have had the fantastic opportunity to travel to Germany and Holland for the Young Horse and Breeder’s Championships. I got to meet with international professionals there and met some famous horses too! My photo was taken with the internationally renowned stallion Casall and featured in The Irish Field.

I would definitely recommend NLN because of the supported leaning environment where the whole person is taken into consideration and for the opportunities for personal development as well as class-room and practical learning. My time at NLN taught me that if you put your mind and effort to something you can achieve anything. Taking part in the Horsemanship course has opened doors for me which would never have otherwise been possible.

21st May 2020

Lizzie's Story

From Customer Service course at NLN Sligo to

University in Liverpool

I originally chose the Customer Service in 2018 because I was interested in getting the Retail Skills cert. Little did I know I would gain so much more than that over the 18 months. I have done work experience in a variety of workplaces including a restaurant, a cafe, a hotel, a craft shop, and finally in Carraig Donn, Sligo, where I truly feel accepted as part of the team. These work experiences - paired with the modules I complete in class - have really made my CV stand out from the crowd. I love the class dynamic!

We all work independently at our own pace, and get to make decisions for ourselves, while also having access to support from our instructor Elaine, or resource teachers if needed. It is such an accepting and diverse group, which is really important to me. There is so much more to this course than just developing academically. My main struggle is my mental health, and while on the programme I had access to support whenever I needed it. I was given support in finding real, tangible solutions to my problems, for example, Elaine suggested getting a pet might help my mental health. My little cat Pheobe was the result of that suggestion; she gives me purpose and I love her!

To conclude, I have not only come out of the course with a Major Award in Retail Skills, but I have accepted an offer to study Psychology in September at Liverpool John Moores University, which I had applied for with the support of Elaine and my classmates. That’s really what I love most about NLN. You are given support to improve your own life, on your own terms, no matter your situation or your goals. I am truly so grateful for the time I got to spend here.

12th May 2020

NLN Jobstart student working on a project growing his own vegetables and looking after a greenhouse. Our student has found this to be very beneficial for his own mindfulness. Well done!

12th May 2020

Out for a walk to get daily steps in what is a lovely day for a walk, with clear blue skies, down by the Garavogue River.

22nd April 2020

We are so lucky to have the weather so good. Out playing football with the dog.

This is a view from our house as the sun sets. What an amazing sky this evening!

Out for a walk this evening to unwind from class work. My daughter doesn't let me go too far, keeping an eye on me and reminding me to stay within our 2 km radius.

Jobstart Student

22nd April 2020

Was out with my daughter feeding the birds and a few had a tug-o-war over a piece of bread.

Jobstart Student

Testimonial from Declan Mullaney
A past student on the Customer Service & Retail Programme

My life before joining NLN Sligo was very lonely. I was living by myself in a rural area. I was not working and dealing with depression at the time. I also suffer with a stammer which affected my confidence. Because of this I did not go out much, kept to myself and didn’t socialise. This all caused me to lose touch with friends and I found this difficult

I had a meeting at the local Intreo office and the lady suggested The National Learning Network as I wanted to do a course that would help me get a job. When I visited the Sligo centre, I was made feel very welcome and all the courses were discussed with me. I liked the fact that everyone can work at their own pace and the Instructors are there to give individual help. As I had not enjoyed my school days I thought this kind of course would suit me.

I first did the Job Start course and received my Major Award in Employability Skills. This helped me to move on to the Level 4 in Customer Service and Retail. The thing I liked about this course was that it had a really good mix of both classroom work and being out two days per week on a placement with an employer. The tutor sourced our work experience locations depending on what our interest were. Some of us worked in Catering, Shops, Offices, Hospitals and I always loved cars and motor bikes so I did my work placement in a local garage. I really enjoyed doing a job I loved.

I completed my course and got awards in 6 modules including Communications, Team Working, and Stock Control. In addition to these modules my tutor also arranged for me to complete a Safe Pass course and a Manual Handling course which were not part of the programme but would help me greatly with my work in the garage. After getting really good reviews from my employer, I was promised a job. I was delighted with this outcome and it would not have happened without the support and encouragement I got from my tutor Elaine and all at NLN, Sligo.

My life has improved greatly since joining NLN. I have more confidence in dealing with people. I have made many lifelong friends. I was encouraged to get a driver’s licence and to join the local Men’s shed. I also took part in an 8 week Rowing Fitness course which was happening in my community. All of these things have had a really positive effect on my life and it is very different to the one I had before joining NLN. I am now a very outgoing and positive person.

I would definitely recommend NLN, Sligo to people as it has been a great help to me and could be to them.

20th April 2020

While out walking in Doorly Park I noticed the swans are trying their best to keep to the 2-metre distance restriction but when it comes to feeding time they are finding it difficult to stay apart.

On the other hand, the ducks must not have got the government's Covid-19 hand booklet that has been circulated.

On the Hunt for the Easter Bunny

Everyone needs some headspace. Out for a stroll with Oreo.

Looking for Easter bunny trail, all is quiet when you look in at the local school that should be full of children running, screaming, playing and excited about how many eggs the bunny will bring. Instead children are missing their school friends and their teachers.

But still we will make the most of our unusual situation walking within our 2 kilometre radius, enjoying the beautiful sunshine today.

Hope everyone is staying well! See ye soon. Lorainne - Jobstart.

National Learning Network, Kempten Promenade, Sligo F91 EY26

Call today on

071-9145391/087-2408538
or email us at sligo@nln.ie

National Learning Network Learners Free Training