VTOS is a programme that gives unemployed adults the opportunity to return to full time education without losing their benefits.

VTOS applicants must be:

• aged 21 or over
• unemployed for at least 6 months (156 days)
• in receipt of Social Welfare benefit or credits for at least 6 months
• in receipt of One Parent Family Allowance
• in receipt of Disability Allowance
• in receipt of Disability Benefit

Take up the VTOS challenge and immediately the benefits are:

• getting back to education
• payments equal to your Social Welfare benefits
• meal and Travel allowance
• book loan system and free materials
• you may be eligible for a crèche allowance

After VTOS, your long term bonuses can be:

• being part of the mainstream marketplace
• an increased range of lifestyle options
• perhaps further education
• skill acquisition

What does the programme involve?

Approximately thirty hours a week
It is possible to get certification in subjects for the Junior Certificate, Leaving Certificate, City and Guilds, FETAC, or other suitable qualifications.

What kind of courses are on offer?

• FIT (Fast-track Into Technology)
• Foundation Courses
• Post Leaving Certificate Courses
• Repeat Leaving Certificate Course (1 Year)
• Two-Year Leaving Certificate Courses

There are also a range of specific skills courses available in a wide range of subject areas e.g. Business, Computers, Languages, Art and Design etc.

Still Interested?

If you want further information just contact your local VTOS Co-ordinator or CDETB Head Office at (01) 6680614