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Student Handbook
Funding Support for Students
College Connect programme exists to engage and mentor young people aged 16-24 years who want to gain entry into Education, Training or Employment.
This project is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014 – 2020 and the Department for the Economy.
College Connect is particularly suitable for those who lack qualifications and are unsure of the career path they want to pursue. College Connect provides the opportunity to sample a range of vocational areas before pursuing your chosen career path, allowing young people to make informed choices about their future career.
The programme is participant centered, blending accredited qualifications with personal development support and structured employer engagement, ensuring that participants make informed decisions on their career pathway.
When I started the course I was quite a reserved person, but as time went on and with the help of group activities in particular, I grew as a person in the 12 months.
College Connect is a mentor-led programme that supports young people aged 16-24 years who want to enter Education, Training or Employment. Each young person on the programme will be assigned a mentor who will assist them achieve their personal goals.
College Connect is a 36-week Mentor led programme, which supports the holistic development of students. Every student will be assigned a mentor who will provide 1:1 support and guidance throughout the programme. Students will have the opportunity to achieve a Level 1 Certificate in Vocational Skills alongside sampling a variety of career pathways, for example, Construction, Catering, Horticulture, IT & Office Skills, Hair & Beauty, Sports & Leisure, Social Care & Early Years, Creative Arts, and Vehicle Care. Students will also have the opportunity to study Essential Skills Numeracy & Literacy up to Level 2.
What makes the College Connect Programme unique is the Vocational Sampling element. If a student is undecided on which career path to follow, then they will have an opportunity to sample several subject areas. This will allow students to make informed choices about their future career. Participants will also gain experience in the World of Work with work placement opportunities.
Before starting the College Connect programme I had very few qualifications, but since then I have gained my Essential Skills in Numeracy and Literacy and I have been introduced to a wide range of further education options
The programme involves Team Building Activities, Employer Visits and a wide range of Extracurricular Activities and Workshops will be organised throughout the year. A Counselling service is also available if needed.
The College Connect programme enhances confidence and resilience and embeds the coping strategies required for entry to education & employment. The Mentor support ensures positive progression and personal achievement. Students will achieve a Level 1 Certificate in Vocational Skills and have the opportunity to study Essential Skills Literacy and Numeracy up to Level 2. Students will also be able to achieve short, accredited qualifications e.g. First Aid and Manual Handling etc. Students can apply for EMA on the College Connect Programme and assistance with travel or childcare costs will be provided.
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