What
is the Vocational Opportunites Scheme (VTOS)?
The
Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme is a speical range of courses
designed to meet the edcuation and training needs of unemployed
people.
What
are the aims of the Scheme?
The
aims of the Scheme are:
-
to
raise education levels
-
to
gaining certification within the national framework
of qualifications
-
to
developing knowledge and skills relevant to the
workplace
-
to
progress to employment or to further education or
training leading to employment.
Can
I join the Scheme?
You
can apply to join if you are:
-
aged
21 or over
-
getting
unemployment payments or signing for credits for at least six
months
-
Recipients
of One-Parent Family Payment, Disability Allowances and dependent
spouses who meet these criteria are also eligible.
What
will it cost me?
-
Courses
are provided free of charge
-
If
you are currently getting an unemployment payment, you will
instead get a training allowance equivalent to the maximum
standard rate of Unemployment Benefit. If you are getting
One-Parent Family Payment or Disability Allowances you will continue to receive payment in the
normal way from the Dept. of Social Protection.
-
You
will get travel (for distances over 3 miles) and meal allowances.
-
You
will be given books and materials free of charge.
What
does the programme involve?
-
30
hours' course attendance per week (e.g. 6 hours a day for 5
days). Courses last for up to two years.
-
Courses
include a wide range of subjects and activities.
-
Certification
is available at a range of levels, including Leaving Certificate, and
Level
5 Certificates of FETAC.
What
Opportunities will VTOS offer me?
-
A
chance to contine your education and training
-
A
chance to develp new skills
-
A
chance to gain certification at a range of levels
-
A
chance to find good employment.
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