CMETB celebrates Adult Learning in County Monaghan

CMETB’s Community Education and Adult Literacy Graduation took place in the Garage Theatre in Monaghan’s Education Campus on Thursday the 11th of October. Deirdre Byrne, Adult Education Officer with CMETB, welcomed everyone and highlighted the difference Adult Education course can make to the lives of learners- giving them endless possibilities.

Cllr PJ O’ Hanlon, Chair of the CMETB Board congratulated the many students from different nationalities who were in attendance to receive their awards. He encouraged them to continue with CMETB. Joe McGrath, Chair of the CMETB FET Board explained that learners had engaged in a wide variety of programmes and levels from Levels 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Certificates in subject areas such as Healthcare, Gardening, ESOL, Literacy and Numeracy, Bookkeeping, Construction, Childcare, Cookery and Computers. He complimented the tutors on a job well done throughout the county. Dr Fiona Mc Grath, CE CMETB, acknowledged the wonderful work done by co-ordinators, the guidance service and tutors in the delivery of adult education courses. She thanked the families of the learners who continued to support them on their learning journey and she encouraged learners to continue this journey with CMETB.

Margaret Mc Cullagh gave an empowering speech explaining how she came to the CMETB Guidance service and commenced a course in IT. She explained how she doubted her ability but as she said “feelings are not facts” and so she persevered. Participating in courses truly changed her life giving her a new purpose and social outlet and she is now attending Monaghan Institute- something she would never have thought possible. Denise Mc Mahon spoke about her journey back to education- commencing L5 Childcare and realising how much she enjoyed learning. She has now completed her Level 9 qualification and is now an employee in learner support with CMETB. She encouraged all present to give it a go- if you don’t like it you can always drop out but you may love it!

Students were then presented with certificates by Joe Mc Grath, and Cllr O’ Hanlon. Dr Linda Pinkster, Director of Further Education and Training closed the event encouraging all to join the world of education and to find out what a difference it can make to your life. Darragh Sheridan concluded the night by explaining that Wednesday is the best day of the week because that’s the day his classes are on!

Learners, tutors and guests alike then enjoyed a catch up with one another over some refreshments. We, in the CMETB Adult Education Department, would like to sincerely congratulate all learners on their success and wish them the best for their future. If you are interested in hearing more about what the adult education service can provide, please call 047 71914 or call into the CMETB Office in Dún Mhuire, Mullaghmonaghan, Clones, Monaghan.