Offaly Traveller Movement and Laois & Offaly Education and Training Board Partnership
Offaly, Ireland – July 4, 2024
In a landmark initiative, the Offaly Traveller Movement (OTM), in collaboration with the Laois & Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB), proudly announced the launch of Ireland’s first Traveller-specific pre-apprenticeship programme. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to provide members of the Traveller community with the education and skills necessary to progress into further education or craft apprenticeships, fostering greater inclusion and equity.
Speaking at the launch, Sandra McDonagh, Managing Director of OTM, highlighted the critical need for this programme. “The significance of this programme cannot be overstated. Over half of Irish Travellers leave school by age 15, and less than 1% advance to higher education. This stark educational inequality has far-reaching consequences, contributing to an unemployment rate of 80.2% within the Traveller community,” said Ms. McDonagh.
The launch of this programme marks a significant step towards addressing educational inequality and promoting social inclusion for the Traveller community. Ms. McDonagh emphasised, “This programme provides a foundation of education and practical skills tailored for Travellers, preparing participants for further education and craft apprenticeships. It promotes inclusion and diversity within the apprenticeship sector, encouraging employers to support and engage with Traveller apprentices. In the long term, the initiative seeks to increase the number of Travellers progressing to higher education and skilled employment, improving the socio-economic status of the Traveller community.”
Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, also spoke at the launch, congratulating OTM and LOETB on this fantastic initiative. He stated, “A key part of our current FET strategy is focused on fostering inclusion. This means as a sector, we must provide tailored pathways to encourage the participation of learner cohorts who are less likely to take part in education, providing them with opportunities to achieve their goals, whether that’s to access quality employment or to improve their self-confidence and mental well-being.”
Andrew Chapple and Bridget Kelly of the Irish Traveller Movement (ITM) spoke about the bursaries available to support participants in the programme. “These bursaries are vital in reducing the financial barriers that Travellers often face when pursuing education and training,” said Chapple. Kelly added, “By providing financial support, we are making it possible for more Travellers to take advantage of this groundbreaking programme and the opportunities it offers.”
Cllr Tony McCormack, Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, also addressed the attendees, expressing his support for the new programme. “This initiative is a significant step forward for our community. It represents a commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality education and training opportunities. We are proud to support this programme and look forward to seeing its positive impact on the Traveller community in Offaly and beyond.”
The programme includes the development of a bespoke curriculum addressing both academic and practical skills, incorporating cultural awareness and specific supports for Travellers. This curriculum is complemented by active partnerships with local businesses and industries to provide apprenticeship opportunities. LOETB will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality training and mentorship, ensuring that participants receive the support they need to succeed.
Emma Gilchreest, FET Strategic Lead for Tertiary and Apprenticeships with LOETB, expressed her support: “LOETB is delighted to support the launch of the Traveller-Specific Pre-Apprenticeship Local Training Initiative. We recognise the strong interest and suitability of the Traveller community for the apprenticeship model. However, we also acknowledge the significant barriers travellers face in accessing apprenticeships due to racism and discrimination. There is a need for government bodies and employers to collaborate to ensure Travellers can access apprenticeships and benefit from tailored initiatives and support. LOETB is proud to contribute to inclusive education and training through this initiative.”
This programme is envisioned as a pilot model with the potential for nationwide rollout through other Traveller organisations and local Education and Training Boards (ETBs). The framework developed in this pilot can be adapted and implemented across Ireland to ensure widespread access to education and apprenticeship opportunities for Travellers, thereby addressing systemic barriers and promoting social mobility.
Employers play a vital role in the success of this initiative. They are encouraged to engage Travellers in apprenticeships by offering opportunities specifically designed for the Traveller community. Highlighting the importance of corporate responsibility and the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workforce, employers can leverage the programme to access a pool of motivated and skilled apprentices, enhancing their talent pipeline and contributing to a more inclusive society.
The launch of this Traveller-specific pre-apprenticeship programme marks a significant step towards addressing educational disparities and promoting social inclusion for the Traveller community. By supporting this initiative, we can create meaningful opportunities for Travellers, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
