8. The CETB Learner Experience

CETB is currently developing a number of common learner focussed policies and procedures that will apply across all CETB centres and Services. Until these are finalised and implemented, the policies and procedures applicable currently in a centre or service will continue to apply. For detailed information regarding policies and procedures relating to the learner experience in a particular centre or service, please contact the centre directly. As new common policies and procedures are developed, they will be published here.  For general information, please see below.

Applications and Enrolment

In most cases, a prospective learner will make an application directly to the centre or service delivering the course that they are interested in. Applications may be made by way of the centre/services own website and online or paper application system, through www.fetchcourses.ie, or by personal contact. Alternatively, applications may be made through referral from another agency (DEASP)

All applications are dealt with in a manner which is open, transparent and fair, based on principles equality and non-discrimination.

While in most cases there are few, if any, specific qualification requirements that an applicant must be in possession of before they apply, it is expected that any learner seeking to access a particular course will have the knowledge, skills and competencies necessary to engage successfully with the course they are applying for. In assessing whether an applicant has the capability to be successful in the course, previous qualifications, life skills and experience will all be taken into account.

In order to assess an applicant’s likely suitability for the course, they will normally be invited to attend an interview to assess the suitability of the course for them. The interview is usually conducted by a member of the centre/service management or an experienced member in the centre or service.

Applicants who are not successful in their application to a course may be advised of alternative, more suitable options that would suit their needs. Unsuccessful applicants have the right to appeal a refusal to offer them a place on a course, details of the appeals process are available at local centre/service level.

Applicants whose native language is not English may be asked to complete an English language test, to determine whether they have the language skills and competencies necessary to engage successfully with their chosen course.

Additional information about admissions procedures and course-specific entry requirements are available from individual centres/services, and in the course prospectus.

Recognition of Prior Learning

CETB does not currently have agreed quality assured processes to support the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for any purpose other than for gaining acceptance onto a course.

Information for Learners

Throughout their engagement on the course, learners will be kept informed of activities and events that may be of interest or relevance to them. Information on assessment requirements, the assessment schedule, assignments, etc., will be communicate to learners  through information provided in class, the distribution of assessment briefs and associated material in class and where available, through a Virtual Learning Environment.

Social media, notice boards and email may be used to provide learners with general information relating to the course.

The Learning Experience and the Environment

CETB’s guiding principles are based on prioritising the needs of the learner, treating people with dignity and respect, and operating in manner which is fair, open and accountable

Within our centres, learners can expect to experience a learning environment that is inclusive and supportive, and focussed on developing the individual’s skills, knowledge and competencies in positive and caring environment

All learners can expect to be dealt with in a manner which is respectful and inclusive, and be treated equitably and fairly at all times. CETB welcomes, supports and celebrates diversity and discrimination of any form is not tolerated.

CETB is committed to providing learners with the most appropriate and up to date learning facilities and surroundings, and creating learning spaces that support and promote the learners through all aspects of their learning journey.

Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL)

CETB is committed to providing an ongoing and enhanced investment in technology-enhanced learning to support innovative teaching and learning practices. Through CETB’s TEL action plan and its implementation, the creation and sharing of digital resources for use in the classroom, use of virtual learning environments (VLEs) to support the learning experience,  development of online and distance learning options, learners will be provided with additional supports to maximise their experience and increase success.

Quality Assuring Work Experience and Work Placement

Most courses leading to a major award, include a Work Experience or Work Practice component with a requirement that the learner participate in a period of compulsory work placement.  This element allows learners to experience the realities of working in their chosen career, and ultimately prepares them better for entry into the workforce.

While centres support learners in securing their work placement, the responsibility to obtain placement rests with the learner. CETB monitors, supports and assesses learners on placement, and monitors the work environments in order to ensure that they are appropriate, safe, and supportive to the learners that they accept.

Giving Feedback on the Learning Experience

Learner feedback is an essential element to the life cycle of a course within CETB. Feedback is sought for most courses through mid-term and end-of-term evaluations, and the information gathered can be used to address issues arising throughout the course, and informs future iterations of the course, e.g. with respect to module choice etc., as well as new course development.

Learners can raise any concerns or feedback they may have about the course, with either the course teacher or course coordinator at any time between the formal feedback opportunities.

Learner Grievances

In an instance where a learner may have a complaint, it should in the first instance, be raised directly with the person concerned, and attempts should be made to resolve the complaint informally at that level. If a resolution is not achieved, or some reason the learner is unable or reluctant to raise their compliant with the other person directly, they should address their concerns to the course coordinator, who will deal with them or refer them to senior management.

If a learner has a complaint against a staff member, then that complaint should, if it cannot be dealt with at local level, be managed under the agreed national procedure for such complaints. Click here for policy/procedure

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For more information or queries relating to Quality Assurance, email quality.assurance@corketb.ie   © 2018 Cork Education and Training Board. All rights Reserved.