OVER 90 adult learners gathered at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Letterkenny for the Donegal regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum.
The event provided an inclusive and welcoming space for learners to share their experiences, reflect on their learning journeys, and contribute to shaping the future of further education and training.
The National FET Learner Forum is run by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, in partnership with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority, and local Education and Training Boards. The forums place learners at the centre of conversations about further education and training and ensure that learner feedback directly informs improvements across the FET sector.
Speaking at the forum, Deirdre McColgan, Quality Assurance Manager at Donegal ETB, said: “To the learners: today is all about you. Your voice matters to us, and not just as a nice idea. It genuinely shapes the decisions we make and the way we deliver our programmes and services. We know that the people best placed to tell us what’s working, what’s not working and what needs to change are the people sitting in our classrooms, workshops and online courses every day.”
Learners spoke very positively about the welcoming and supportive atmosphere of the forum. Participants highlighted “Good experience, nice conversation, friendly people and a great opportunity” and “A very friendly atmosphere in pleasant surroundings. Special attention was paid to listening to everyone.” Others noted “Friendly atmosphere and the chance to share my opinion with other learners” and “Everything was very well organised.”
Many learners valued the opportunity to connect with others from different backgrounds and experiences. Participants shared “Different people, different cultures, different experiences” and “Meeting with people from different countries and cultures. We shared our experience and enjoyed the whole conversation. Everything is perfect from beginning to end.”
Learners also appreciated the open and inclusive nature of the discussions. Feedback included “I enjoyed the way you weren’t pressured to talk and could say what you want” and “The ability for everyone to express their thoughts freely to improve the services.”
Others highlighted “I really liked the discussions: everyone participated, each of us suggested some improvements and everyone was heard.”
The role of facilitators and the learner-centred approach of the event were particularly valued. Learners shared “I enjoyed it a lot, especially our facilitator as she was great and very kind” and “Our facilitator was very nice and helpful and I enjoyed our conversations.”
One participant also noted “I appreciate the genuine concern about the wellbeing and happiness of students.”
Many learners reflected on what they had gained from participating in the forum. Participants shared “That learners’ voices are important and can help improve adult education” and “I could use my voice for change.”
Others noted “Learners’ needs and how talking about it will help the ETB better itself” and “The amount of students getting the opportunity to meet and voice ideas and concerns.” One learner commented “It’s important to express your thoughts as perhaps this will help future students.”
Key themes discussed during the forum included the vital role of tutors and staff in creating supportive learning environments, as well as the value learners place on gaining new knowledge and skills across a wide and diverse range of courses.
Learners also provided constructive suggestions for improvement, including enhancing awareness and visibility of progression options for learners and reducing the volume of assessments on some courses.
If you are thinking of returning to education, further information is available on the AONTAS website or through Donegal Education and Training Board.
