Despite the budget, there was still a lot to celebrate this week as over 60 participants successfully completed the Achieve programme.  The Presentation of Certificates Evening was held at Tipperary Institute when each of the 6 Achieve groups presented what they themselves learned from the programme.  One participant said “I am more willing to tackle ‘impossible’ problems” while another exclaimed “I feel a lot more confident and I am inspired to learn more and make the most of life”.  Sinead Carr from South Tipperary County Council, one of the guest speakers spoke of the job and enterprise opportunities in South Tipperary particularly in IT and renewable energy. The good news was very welcome. Tina Mulhearne, President of Clonmel Chamber emphasised the communication and people skills that participants have developed through Achieve and the importance of these for jobs in the current climate.

 

Achieve is the free follow on programme from Inspire (and over 400 people have taken an Inspire course in Tipperary so far!).  Achieve is a part time personal and professional development programme which was launched in January of this year and is designed for people working in the private sector. Its aim is to help participants become effective communicators and develop both the attitude and skills to help them get the job they really want.  Participants also learn the art of successful interviews and presentations which are key steps to career success.  Upon completion of the course, participants gain a minor award with a FETAC Communication Module at level 3. Thanks to 100% funding from the FAS Skills for Work Programme, Achieve is offered free of charge. 

 

Behind the scenes, the Centre for Developing Human Potential at Tipperary Institute is the driving force behind both Inspire and Achieve.  Marie Walsh, the coordinator of the programmes has been overwhelmed by the ‘large number of people inquiring about the courses who recognise that they want more from life and from themselves. They are essentially saying that they are ready for a change’.

 

At Tipperary Institute, two more Inspire programmes and two Achieve courses are planned for 09/10.  For further information on Inspire, Achieve or other courses delivered by the Centre for Developing Human Potential, please contact Pauline Toomey at 0504 28113 or cdhp@tippinst.ie