An access programme designed to help students overcome hurdles which might otherwise prevent them from enrolling in third level education is in full swing at IT Sligo.
With the new academic year getting underway at the Institute, 34 students are participating in the Breaking the Mould programme which started with a two week summer school in the Institute.
The Programme has been designed for students who have the ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education, but who, for a variety of socio economic reasons, would not normally aspire to a college education. Long-term unemployment, low family income, or little or no family tradition in progressing to higher education are among the obstacles which the programme has successfully countered. It has been running at the Institute since 2002 and it has witnessed a 70 per cent increase in participation in the last year alone.
Participants, who must be aged 22 or under and have attended a post primary school or education centre in Connacht or in Co Donegal, are granted a bursary funded by IT Sligo and can also avail of one to one mentoring throughout the academic year.
President of IT Sligo, Professor Terri Scott said that the Institute is committed to building on the programme and to improving access to education in the region; “Facilitating access to higher education has never been more important. We are investing significant resources in the Breaking the Mould programme in order to extend participation in the initiative. Our staff have been working to enhance the Summer School, which has been a resounding success in supporting new students to gain confidence as they embark on their studies.”
Breaking the Mould Programme Coordinator Ann McCauley said that the summer school is a good opportunity for students to find their feet; “It helps them to make new friends and get to know the run of the college before the other students arrive,” she explained. Throughout the two weeks, the participants benefit from tuition in a range of subjects such as maths, computer skills and communications. Workshops are held daily where advice is given on how to manage finances, adjust to student life and stay healthy and stress free. Students who complete the two week summer school receive a bursary.
“This helps fund accommodation, travel or living expenses for those who may have to wait until October or November for their grants,” explained Ms McCauley.
Students who are successful in applying for the programme are offered a place in their chosen course if they achieve the minimum entry requirements and are within 10 per cent of the points required under the CAO.
“This programme offers a helping hand to students who otherwise might find the prospect of starting a course in third level too intimidating for financial or other reasons,”, explained the coordinator. She pointed out that eligibility is based on family income.“Some families assume third level education is not an option for their children but Breaking the Mould helps break down the barriers for many talented students and enables them to take that important first step”, said Ms McCauley. The success of the programme can be measured by the fact that 70 per cent of last year’s participants are expected to proceed with their studies this year.
While the bursaries are awarded by IT Sligo, the summer school mentoring and Breaking the Mould coordinator are currently funded by the Dormant Accounts (Educational Disadvantage) Fund.
To find out more about the Breaking the Mould programme contact Ann McCauley on 071-9137355 or by emailing breakingthemould@nullitsligo.ie