All Photos: Arthur Kinahan
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10 Nov 2025
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10 Nov 2025
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Learner led discussion at LMETB National FET Learner Forum
Adult learners from Louth and Meath gathered at City North Hotel in Gormanstown, Co Meath to share their experiences and help shape the future of further education.
This regional meeting of the National Further Education and Training (FET) Learner Forum brought together 72 participants, providing them with a platform to discuss their learning journeys and contribute to positive change.
The National FET Learner Forum is a collaborative initiative led by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, in partnership with SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority, and local Education and Training Boards. This marks the first regional meeting of the year, with thousands of learners from across Ireland set to participate throughout 2025, sharing their experiences and insights
Speaking at the forum, Mick Burns, from the Support & Development Unit at Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) said: “Learner voice is such an important aspect of FET. It is a cornerstone of effective education because it respects and amplifies the perspectives of learners, creating a more dynamic, equitable, and impactful learning environment.
"It provides each learner with an opportunity to express their opinions and ideas which can help shape how we deliver our services for them.”
Facilitators at the event noted that learners spoke highly of their courses, tutors, and the overall nature of adult learning. Youthreach learners highlighted how the shyness they felt in secondary school faded in a Further Education and Training (FET) setting, describing the experience as 'transformative' and saying it significantly eased their anxiety
Learners highlighted some challenges with their courses, including the slow progression of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes and issues with transport and parking at certain centres. However, they also offered valuable suggestions, such as introducing a shuttle service to improve accessibility, providing greater support for work placements, and enhancing communication to better connect migrant learners with local community hubs for integration and English language practice.
Overall, facilitators noted that learners responded very positively to the Learner Forum, particularly enjoying the peer-led discussions. They described the session as full of ‘positive interaction,’ with participants leaving the forum feeling more confident about their next steps.
If you are thinking of going back to education, you can find further information on the AONTAS website. You can also check out the range of programmes available at the Louth and Meath Education and Training Board on their website.
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