DCU creates ‘Bridge to Education’ in North Dublin
19 May 2009

On 19 May 2009 Seán Haughey TD, Minister for Lifelong Learning presented certificates to the first students to graduate from the Bridge to Education Programme located in the  ‘DCU in the Community’ centre in Ballymun, North Dublin. The programme is a pre-foundation course aimed at local learners who are giving serious consideration to returning to full-time education. Its objective is to help people with some of the necessary skills required for returning to education, such as essay writing, study skills and budget skills

The centre, located in the heart of Ballymun, was launched by Minister Haughey in June last year and is an important stepping stone to increasing levels of access and lifelong learning in the area. The physical location of the centre is the key to its enormous success. 

DCU aims to provide flexible educational opportunities to local residents in order to increase participation and promote equality in third level education. DCU in the Community recognises the individual talents of each student and is developing curriculum based on the students’ needs. It offers an alternative route of entry for students as well as a flexible, community based model provision that is particularly suited to adult learners.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Haughey congratulated the graduates of this innovative programme for their motivation, commitment and ability. ‘I commend the students today on their motivation and ambition to realise their full potential through education. They are role models for their community and I hope they will inspire others to follow in their footsteps and return to education.’