In February 2019, Renata decided to completely change her life. After 13 years in a role where promotion was not an option, she decided to quit her job and retrain. 

‘I wanted to become a healthcare worker; however, with my background in economy, I thought it was too late to change my career path,’ Renata says. ‘When I heard about the Social and Community Care Traineeship programme, I decided to apply. I was pleased to hear that I was accepted.’ 

The Traineeship programme at Tallaght Training Centre was provided by Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board (ETB), co-financed by the European Social Fund’s (ESF) PEIL programme. There are 16 ETBs in Ireland covering three programme types: specific skills training; bridging/foundation courses; and traineeships. 

Specific skills training courses are available year-round to facilitate those entering the job market for the first time and people wishing to update or acquire new skills. Bridging or foundation courses are aimed at individuals who wish to return to employment or education and training after a period of unemployment. Traineeships take 4–9 months and provide job-specific training that includes workplace coaching with a host employer. 

Learners received a training allowance, and tuition and ancillary costs were covered. Over 55 000 people have benefited from the project. 

Renata started the course in July 2019, and began a work placement at St. James’s Hospital in Dublin. However, with Renata just one module away from completing her course, COVID-19 restrictions closed the Tallaght Training Centre. 

‘At first, it was difficult to get used to online tutoring,’ says Renata, ‘but with the support and guidance from our tutors, it became a new norm.’ 

The hospital had to adapt quickly, too. Renata was supposed to shadow other Healthcare Assistants, however, with challenging new rules and safety systems – including staff isolation – Renata had to use her initiative, applying the skills and knowledge she’d picked up on the project to advance her learning online. 

‘I started to apply my learning from Tallaght Training Centre,’ says Renata. ‘Strict adherence to health and safety, infection prevention and control, confidentiality – [it] all started to sound very familiar and I was impressed with myself.’ As a result of her work placement, Renata was offered a job. 

‘I am so happy I decided to apply for this course,' Renata says. ‘If it were not for my course and work placement, I would not be in my dream job.’