11 September 2009
Northern Ireland’s Essential Skills learners can now make their qualifications count toward university entrance requirements.
Speaking on International Literacy Day earlier this week, which aims to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals, communities and societies, Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey said: “Improving your Essential Skills can open up all sorts of opportunities such as new job opportunities, career enhancement or simply getting more out of life. Now it can also help you move into higher education with UCAS’ recent announcement that, for the first time, an Essential Skill Level 2 qualification will attract 10 tariff points toward university entrance requirements.”
Patrice Cunningham from Southern Regional College is someone who is now well on her way in lifelong learning after gaining Essential Skills Level 1 Literacy and Level 2 Numeracy. Her experience of going back into learning has prompted her to enrol on an Access course at the college on a part time basis as part of her ambition to get into university to do a degree in nursing. Prior to her return to education, Patrice had been unemployed for five years, caring for her terminally ill mother. After her mother’s death she realised that she would like to work in a caring profession and was offered the chance to do an Essential Skills course as part of her NVQ course.
Patrice said: “English was a subject which really scared me but I had a really good tutor and enjoyed the relaxed teaching environment. My success has made me want to learn more and realise my goal of becoming a nurse.”
Praising Patrice’s achievement, the Minister said: “Skills are becoming increasingly important and signing up for an Essential Skills course can open up a wide range of opportunities in both employment and learning. Last year was our most successful to date, with over 13,000 qualifications gained in literacy, numeracy and ICT. Whatever your reasons for returning to learning, there’s lots of support available to help you right now.”
Essential Skills courses are free and available now at your local college. You can also obtain more details about courses across Northern Ireland by ringing the freephone number 0800 66 0800 or online at www.knowhowNI.info and also on the government citizen facing website, NI Direct at www.nidirect.gov.uk.
Notes to editors:
1. International Literacy Day 2009 was on Tuesday 8 September. Each year, UNESCO reminds the international community of the status of literacy and adult learning globally. This year, the spotlight is on the empowering role of literacy and its importance for participation, citizenship and social development.
2. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
Posted 14 Sep 2009
