The AONTAS Adult Learners’ Festival recently took place. AONTAS coordinates the STAR Awards (Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition) as part of the Festival. The awards acknowledge some of the adult learning initiatives in Ireland that contribute to adult learners as well as communities and society. Here are this year’s worthy recipients.
Winners of Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote Wellbeing
- Mentor Support for Cancer Patients and their Families
- Horticultural Local Training Initiative
There were two winners in this category. First of all, Mentor Support for Cancer Patients and their Families picked up an award. This is a six-week training programme for formers cancer patients as well as those who are or have cared for someone with cancer. As a result, the course ensures that mentors have the skills and abilities to share their experiences in a meaningful way. Furthermore, the Open College Network accredits the programme.
In addition, the Horticultural Local Training Initiative in Blackrock, Cork picked up an award. This is a community programme supporting socially disadvantaged adults to develop their personal well-being using nature.
Winners of Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote Social Inclusion
- EPIC Programme
- Irish Men’s Shed Association
There were another two winners in this category. Firstly, the EPIC Programme, which helps immigrants, including refugees, to integrate into Irish society by finding employment or further training.
Furthermore, the Irish Men’s Shed Association won an award. The Association promotes learning across the country and gives men the chance to learn new skills.
Winner of Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote Digital Inclusion
- Supporting Communities Digital Inclusion Project
This project delivers free digital training in local community centres in Northern Ireland. Once they have completed their training, participants help members of their communities to improve their digital skills.
Winner of Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote The Learner Voice
- SAOL’s Fashion Show
SAOL works with women from Dublin’s North Inner City at various stages of addiction recovery.
