National Learning Network – Bray

This dynamic foundation programme is crafted for young adults with mild learning difficulties, offering an enriching pathway for school leavers and young people eager to take the next step in their lives. With courses available in Bray and Stillorgan, this programme blends practical learning with personal development, opening up exciting opportunities for growth and independence.

Through a balanced mix of social skills, personal development, career exploration, and hands-on vocational training, students will have the chance to explore a variety of job roles and work environments. This experience helps them discover their unique strengths and make informed decisions about their future education or career path.

The programme also provides tailored support for literacy and numeracy, ensuring each student’s needs are met at their own pace. Real-world learning opportunities within the local community help students apply the skills they’ve gained, empowering them to become active citizens and take meaningful steps towards living independently.

The JobStart Training in the Workplace course allows students to train in a business or company for three days a week and in the centre in Bray for two days a week. This ensures learners get practical on-the-job experience as well as nationally recognised qualifications. Our training instructors will help students to find a work placement suitable for them.  They will continue to support students and the host company while they are training with them.

This training programme is aimed at people who want to progress to further education or enter (re-enter) the workforce and study in a supportive environment.

It allows students the opportunity to gain QQI Level 4 qualifications and a wide range of skills which are required to secure and maintain employment. This is done in an encouraging learning environment that promotes wellness.

Using a combination of accredited and non-accredited modules, as well as work placements, we offer a person centred approach that will support you in achieving your goals.

Training is delivered through a combination of centre-based, community-based and work-based learning. Students are required to attend the centre three days a week to complete training in the programme modules. The remainder of the week is spent completing assigned work including activities relating to community engagement and work placements.

On completion of the programme, students can gain a QQI Level 4 major award in either Employment Skills or Retail Skills. This provides a pathway to further education at QQI Level 5 or employment in a variety of areas.

• Personalised Support: Small classes ensure one-on-one help from experienced training instructors.
• Real-World Skills: Learn through practical projects and gain an industry-recognised QQI Level 5 qualification in Information Processing.
• Supportive Environment: Achieve the next step in your career in a positive, encouraging and supportive environment.

Our exciting Pathways training course teaches you the skills to successfully set off on the next step of your career journey – whether this is to Further Education or Employment. We support you to build your confidence, identify your strengths and goals, learn practical skills, make new friends, gain valuable work experience and gain valuable QQI qualifications. Literacy and numeracy are integrated into all aspects of the programme.