Monaghan Institute - Now Is the Best Time to Return to Education

With the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) payment now coming to an end, this could be the perfect time to consider returning to education. Each year many mature learners attend and graduate from Monaghan Institute. Their decision to return to education is one that is not taken lightly, much thought and preparation is undertaken before they even apply for a course. However, given the changes that the world has seen in the last 18 months now, more than ever, is the right time to return to education. This article will look at some of the challenges that a mature learner may face, and ways to meet these challenges.

Challenge 1: I can’t afford it

There are financial implications in relation to going to college for mature students, just as they are for eighteen-year-olds. Students taking full time Level 5 or 6 courses at Monaghan Institute can apply for a grant from SUSI @ www.susi.ie

If you are over 21 years of age, are unemployed and have been getting certain social welfare payments for at least 6 months you can apply for the Vocational Training and Opportunities Scheme (VTOS). This scheme provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. Additionally, the Back to Education Allowance Scheme is a second chance educational opportunity for unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities. This scheme allows you to keep your social welfare payment and return to full time courses.

Challenge 2: I can’t write essays/reports/exams

One of the biggest fears faced by mature students wanting to return to education is that their ability to do assessed work will be less than their younger counterparts because they have been outside formal education for some time. At Monaghan Institute we are aware of these concerns and our classes are designed to teach the correct way to compile assignments. The college also offers extra classes at lunch times to help those students who may need more guidance.

Challenge 3: My computer skills are out of date

At Monaghan Institute you can borrow a laptop from the library during the day to use during classes. Many of our programmes have classes in Word Processing or Spreadsheets as part of the timetable, which allow students to improve their skills. Help will be offered to all students who need it in word processing, using spreadsheets, researching online and using referencing. Again, the college has lunchtime classes designed to help those students who may feel they need extra help.

At Monaghan Institute we value our mature learners. Now is the time to change your future.

Places are still available on courses commencing this academic year at Monaghan Institute. Apply Now: You can browse all our courses and apply online @ www.monaghaninstitute.ie. If you have any queries, contact the Monaghan Institute Admin Team via email: [email protected].