Test Drive | Página 81

Student Profile VTOS Further Education and Training Centre. Carlow Road, Athy, Co Kildare. I have done many courses over the years but returning to full-time education was a major step forward for me. I was apprehensive over the fact that I was a lot more mature, but then I realised that I could actually learn a new skill and qualify in my chosen field of learning. I joined the class on my first morning and everyone as just as nervous as I was. The tutors soon put our fears to rest by explaining about each module in detail. This dispelled all our fears and I looked forward to learning with anticipation. While I was apprehensive of the fact that I was over 50, everyo ne was helpful and we learned as a group. This made everything easier to understand, as we all had the opportunity to share our understanding and experience. It was sometimes stressful thinking about all the work I was undertaking, but I soon realised that I was stressing unnecessarily and that I could do this. VTOS education is geared for people with varied skills and learning experiences. The courses are easy to understand and the help is available for anyone having problems. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn new skills. ATHY I have gained lots of new skills and expanded my social skills. I have learned from both tutors and fellow students. We have worked in small groups and larger classes, we work in teams and as individuals. This has greatly boosted my self-esteem and belief that maybe when I graduate I might make a difference. Roseanne Doyle, Nursing Studies, VTOS Athy SK 81