VTOS
Welcome to VTOS (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme)
VTOS is a full-time education program designed to help people return to work. Our courses aim to increase your chances of finding a job in your local community. Many past learners have found part-time or full-time jobs through VTOS or have gone on to complete additional courses at QQI Level 6 or third-level colleges.
Why Choose VTOS?
Positive Learning Environment:
We welcome all eligible students. You'll find a supportive and friendly atmosphere at our center.
Experienced Staff:
Our staff understand the needs of adult learners and work with you at your own pace to help you succeed.
Opportunities for Adults:
VTOS offers various courses for people over 21 who receive Social Welfare.
Practical and Recognized Courses:
We focus on hands-on practical work, group projects, and personal projects. All our courses are validated by institutes recognized by employers and colleges.
Join us at VTOS Athy and take the first step toward a brighter future. We look forward to supporting you on your educational journey.
We provided a face to face classroom-based learning environment.
Timetable 9:15 am to 4 pm daily, Monday to Friday.
Work Experience is an integral part of all our courses. Applicants are required to complete the Garda Vetting process for many work placements.
WHO CAN ATTEND VTOS:
All applicants must be aged 21 and be in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for a minimum of six months.
Qualifying social welfare payments include the following;
Jobseekers Benefit
Jobseekers Allowance
One-Parent Family
Disability Allowance/Illness
Benefit/Invalidity Pension.
Farm Assist
or signing for credits for at least six months
or be a dependent spouse of an eligible person for at least six months
or have refugee /protected status.
or be a recent Youthreach completor
or have recently been made redundant.
Periods spent on a FAS training course, Community Employment Scheme, Job Initiative, and TUS can count towards the six-month qualifying period.
VTOS is free for those who are 21 years of age or older and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment.
Adult Career Guidance, and support for students wishing to progress to Higher Education.
We offer a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Supports for learners with disabilities, including learning disabilities.
A small meal and travel allowance are payable to eligible students.
Students are not asked to buy expensive books while on the course.
A laptop loan scheme is available to disadvantaged learners.
Counselling & Well-being support available to students who need it.
How to apply
You can make an application in any of the following ways;
Contacting the VTOS Co-ordinator, Una Burke Phone: 059 863 2044 Ext 2, Mobile: 087-978 7727. Email: vtosathy@kwetb.ie
Visiting the centre and completing an application form.
By submitting your details to our contact page
Once an application has been received, students are invited to interview, they may also be asked to complete an initial assessment.
VTOS Programmes
Testimonial
I started VTOS as a way to further my education and to get to meet new people. The centre was welcoming and staff were approachable at all times. All staff were very supportive to students By going to VTOs and doing the course I gained confidence in myself and am now working in a job that I love. VTOS was a great opportunity for me. Thank you.”
— Linda 2020