Internet Safety Day - Sligo CTC

Hairdressing Course - Upstyle

This amazing 1950's inspired upstyle was created by one of our talented learners

Hairdressing Course - Wash and Blow-Dry

Before and After of a wash and blow-dry

Wash and blow-dry on curly hair

Wash and blow-dry on curly hair

Hairdressing Course - Shampooing and Treatment Applications

 Learners have the opportunity to apply a variety of quality mask and oil treatments.

Spotlight on the Hairdressing Course - "Introduction to our Hairdressing Area"

Today we are taking a look at the hairdressing course available in the centre.  This is a very popular course and is suitable for individuals who want to learn the basics of hairdressing while gaining recognised QQI certification. Completion of this course would form an excellent foundation for those hoping to participate in full-time “salon training” or progress further to Level 5 hairdressing course.

Course Content:

• Introduction (Hairdressing theory)

• Shampooing

• Hair-Care  

• Face shapes and Styles to suit

• Blow-Drying Techniques

• Knowledge of Hairdressing Tools

• Treatment Application

• Setting

• Colour Application

Participants will be offered part-time work experience with a host salon.

Upon successful completion of this course, 6 months full-time salon placement  (Link-work) is offered to learners who show commitment to a career in hairdressing.

All learners participating on the link work programme will be offered progression to Level 5 ETB hairdressing course. 

Computer Course - Computer Modules Level 4 - Certification

There are three level 4 computer modules available in the computer course.  Information Technology Skills is mandatory in order to achieve a QQI Level 4 Major Award Pathway to Employment 4M2010.  Each module is worth 10 credits.  The QQI modules are as follows:

• Information Technology Skills 4N1125 

This module is exam based.  It gives trainees the knowledge and skills in IT concepts and terminology, file management, using the internet, creating and managing a personal email account and developing skills in data entry and word processing.

• Computer Applications 4N1112

There are 3 exam in Computer Applications - Spreadsheets, Database and Computer Graphics.

• Data Entry 4N1113

This module is exam based with three assessments - Speed and Accuracy, Document Production and Proof Reading.

Computer Course - Computer Modules Level 3 - Certification

There are currently four Level 3 computer modules available in the computer course.  A computer module is mandatory in order to achieve a  QQI Level 3 Major Award in Employment Skills 3M0935 (60 credits).  Each computer module is worth 10 credits.  The QQI modules are as follows:

·    Word Processing 3N0588

The purpose of this module is to provide the trainees with the knowledge, skills and competence to create a range of clear and accurate documents using Microsoft Word. Eg. Menus, Letters, Curriculum Vitae, Tables, Memos, Editing & Formatting. Trainees have to put together a portfolio of assessment work and there is a skills demo exam at the end.

·         Spreadsheets 3N0542

The purpose of this module is to provide the trainees with the knowledge, skills and competence to perform some basic functions of a spreadsheet application using Microsoft Excel. Eg.  apply basic formatting, insert, delete rows, columns, worksheets & create formulas etc.

·         Database Applications 3N0554

The purpose of this module is to provide the trainees with an understanding of the basic concepts and functions of database using Microsoft Access. Eg. Using tables, queries, forms & reports etc.  Trainees have to put together a portfolio of assessment work and there is a skills demo exam at the end.

·         Desktop Publishing 3N0551

The purpose of this module is to equip the trainees with the knowledge, skills and competence to use Microsoft Publisher to produce a range of publications. Eg. Posters, Greeting cards, Bookmarks, CD covers, Brochures, Calendars & Postcards etc. Trainees have to put together a portfolio of assessment work and there is a skills demo exam at the end. 

Spotlight on Catering Course

Today we will take a look at that catering course. This course is aimed at learners who want a career in the catering industry. Along with achieving QQI accreditation in modules such as Short Order Cooking and Nutrition, Handling Food Hygienically and Healthy  Options learners will also have the opportunity to develop their skills in our training kitchen. As learners progress in training they complete a work placement within the local hospitality sector.

Some of the delicious food prepared by trainees

  

New Exploring Options Course

Certification Day 2019

Centre Recruitment

Did you know someone who is interested in starting a new course in September?

Courses starting September 2018

YEP - Youth Employment Programme

YEP is a youth friendly guidance and support programme providing information and advice to help you take the next step towards choosing future career options.  Every Tuesday morning Anne Brennan, Information and Guidance Counsellor, attends Sligo CTC to provide this valuable one-one service.

The service can help you to:

• Identify your interests and match these to suitable job areas
• Explore training options and progression routes in education and employment
• Research apprenticeships and courses in Sligo
• Research fees, funding and grants for courses
• Explore supports available for going to college
• Develop CV writing skills
• Improve interview skills

If you would like an appointment with Anne please contact your keyworker.

Simple, Soft and Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Catering trainees are trying out new recipes that are focused on promoting healthy eating and is a part of the centres effort to promote mental health week and the importance of eating well to keep a good mental and physical health.

INGREDIENTS 

2 1/2 cups (230 grams)  rolled porridge  oats

1/2 cup (80 grams) whole almonds, coarsely chopped

1/3 cup (113 grams) honey

1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/4 cup (50 grams) packet light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (60 grams) dried cranberries/apricots, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (65 grams) mini chocolate chips

METHOD

• TOAST OATS AND NUTS

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Line bottom and sides of a 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with aluminum foil. Then lightly oil or spray with cooking spray.
Add oats and almonds to a small baking sheet then bake 5 minutes, stir and bake another 3 to 5 minutes until lightly toasted. Transfer to a large bowl.

• MAKE BARS

Combine butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract and the salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally until butter melts and the sugar completely dissolves.
Pour butter mixture in to bowl with toasted oats and almonds. Mix well. Let cool about 5 minutes then add cranberries and a 1/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips. Stir to combine. (The chocolate chips will most likely melt a little. This is fine, they turn into glue and help to hold the bars together).
Transfer oat mixture to lined pan then use a rubber spatula or damp finger tips to firmly press the mixture into the pan. (Press hard here, this way the bars will stay together once cooled and cut — We press for about one minute to be extra safe).
Scatter remaining 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips over pressed granola mixture then use a rubber spatula to gently press them into the top. Cover then refrigerate at least 2 hours. Remove block of granola mixture from pan then peel away aluminum foil. Cut into 12 bars.
Store bars in an airtight container for up to one week. For the softest bars, keep at room temperature. For slightly harder bars, store in the fridge.

Gardening on a sunny day.

Patrick and Andrew in the garden today.

Spotlight on Catering - Day 3 - Baking

The catering trainees showcasing some of their delicious baking

MSLETB Information Day

Today trainees got the opportunity to visit MSLETB training centre in Ballytivnan. Trainees  were given a presentation on training courses available and the wide variety of apprenticeships on offer. They also got a tour of the centre.  Thanks to the staff for the the lovely refreshments and informative visit.  Hopefully in the future some of our trainees will progress down to MSLETB!

St Angela's College and IT Sligo Information Morning

Janell, Lisa and a group of trainees attended St Angela’s College and IT Sligo Information Morning at Cranmore Regeneration Project in Abbeyquarter Community Centre, Cranmore, Sligo on Wednesday 11th April 2018.

This was a very informative event with:

 Presentations by IT Sligo & St Angela’s College
 Meet the College Access Officers
 Hear about supports available
 Get updates on new courses
 Learn about grants and bursaries

Well done to Josh on winning a one for all voucher!

Sports & Recreation - Psychological Benefits of Exercise

Psychological Benefits of Exercise

We often hear about the physical benefits of exercise (e.g., increasing heart health), less often are the psychological benefits promoted. Yet, engaging in a moderate amount of physical activity will result in improved mood and emotional states. Exercise can promote psychological well-being as well as improve quality of life.

The following are common psychological benefits gained through exercise.
 

• Improved mood
• Reduced stress as well as an improved ability to cope with stress
• Improved self-esteem
• Pride in physical accomplishments
• Increased satisfaction with oneself
• Improved body image
• Increased feelings of energy
• Improved in confidence in your physical abilities
• Decreased symptoms associated with depression

As people experience these psychological benefits, it is likely that they also will be motivated to continue exercises so that they continue to receive these benefits.

Information Morning Photos

Some photos taken by Karl Brennan of the successful information day