In partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB), MIC has launched the new MIC Ability Pathways (MAP) Project: Mapping Inclusive Futures. Fully funded by the HEA under the Path 4 Phase 2 access initiative, this newly redesigned and reimagined programme replaces the Certificate in General Learning and Personal Development (CGLPD) and aims to provide a pathway to meaningful community engagement for people with intellectual disabilities in an inclusive third-level environment. The first student intake will be in September 2024, and interested parties can learn about the programme and application process at a dedicated Open Evening on 29 May (7pm, Room T116, MIC Limerick.)
According to Dr Órla Slattery, Inclusion Co-ordinator for Adults with Intellectual Disability at MIC: “We are delighted to be partnering with the LCETB on this new programme that will provide new and exciting opportunities for learners in MIC, an established third-level university level college with a history of educational excellence and community engagement.”
Dr Slattery adds: “The MAP Project is a welcome expansion of the Certificate in General Learning and Personal Development (CGLPD) and will incorporate both a recognised QQI Level 4 qualification and a transitioning programme to further education and training and/or employment for project participants. Through this innovative new project, we aim to create meaningful change in the lives of the people the project is designed to serve and work with our community partners to develop opportunities for people with an intellectual disability to grow and flourish as empowered citizens.”
The programme, designed to support the academic, social and personal development of participants, is based on key objectives including the provision of lifelong learning opportunities for individuals, the promotion of inclusion in the third-level environment, the enhancement of individual employability, and the development of skills for modern society and living. There is a particular emphasis placed on supporting learners to develop transferrable skills in areas such as ICT, communication, teamwork, citizenry and personal effectiveness.
Sarah O’Sullivan, CGLPD class representative, in encouraging eligible applicants to consider the programme said of her experience on the CGLPD: “I loved every minute of the course; it gave me so much confidence in myself in doing presentations and speaking to different people.”
The MAP Project will provide an educational foundation in Years 1 and 2 and a transitioning programme in Year 3, which will enable learners to become active members of their communities and fulfil their personal life goals by transiting to further education and training and/or employment, subsequent to the educational foundation of the project.
Aisling Arthur, a CGLPD student, added that attending college was always a goal of hers to achieve, and she strongly believes that “good things come to those who wait”.
Open Evening details:
Wednesday, 29 May |7pm in Room| Room T116 |Tara Building, MIC Limerick|V94 VN26
All are welcome to attend.
Please note: Prospective entrants must be over 18 years of age on enrolment and have been identified as having an intellectual disability from birth or early years. Applicants should have a commitment to ongoing learning and personal development and have three or more Level 3 QQI Minor Awards (including Literacy and/or Communication components), or equivalent. Applicants should not have previously participated on or completed the CGLPD programme at MIC.
Application forms will be available from Monday 20 May. Click here for further details.
