I’ve had enough, I’m outta here!!
Thinking of leaving school early?
A guide for young people in the Dun Laoghaire / Rathdown Area About this booklet
Crosscare Youth Information Service is delighted to introduce the third edition of ‘ I’ve had enough, I’m outta here ’. This booklet is aimed at young people who may be having difficulties at school and are thinking of leaving early or may have already left.
The booklet brings together a list of support services that are there to help, providing information on alternative education, training and employment options.
Acknowledgements
This booklet could not have been published without the willing participation and constructive feedback of many people and we would like to extend our thanks to all concerned.
We extend our gratitude to the Southside Partnership and DLR Drug & Alcohol Task Force whose financial assistance made this publication possible.
A special word of thanks to Sinead Merrigan for her perseverance in ensuring that this essential booklet was updated and published.
While every attempt was made to ensure that the information was accurate before going to print, we accept no responsibility for errors or omissions. If your organisation has not been listed and you wish to be included in subsequent editions, please contact us.
© 2017
Throughout this booklet you will find phone numbers of support services who can help you. If you don’t feel comfortable ringing yourself, ask someone else (e.g. parent, teacher, youth worker, friend) to ring and find out the information for you! CONTENTS
Before you leave School Things to Consider 3 Telling your Parents 4 The Legal Bit! 5 Specific difficulties at school 6 Supports at School 9 Other ways to do your Leaving Cert 11
left School? Local Supports 13 Alternative Choices 14 Further Education without the Leaving Cert 18 Money Matters when Studying 23
employment Career Directions 25 Finding a Job 26 Your Employment Rights 27
adultS who have left School early 29
SouthSide partnerShip & dlr drug & alcohol taSk force 30
index 31
who we are 33 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Things to consider
The legal age for leaving school is 16 or after your Junior Cert, whichever is later.
There are very few options for those who leave school before 16.
It’s worth considering that the risk of unemployment is higher for young people who leave school early.
However, formal education isn’t an absolute necessity to a successful life. There are many ways to succeed and many ways to educate yourself.
What will you do if you leave?
3 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Telling your paren If you make a decision to leave school early it can ctause !conflict.
Your parents’ - V - Your viewpoint
Your parents may have problems with your idea of leaving school. They may be concerned that you are passing up opportunities for your future. They may be disappointed because in their eyes, you are giving up opportunities in school that they may not have had. They may not understand, or have forgotten, the pressures that are involved with school. There is often much more pressure on young people nowadays to achieve at school than there was in the past. They may be worried about you being able to get a job.
Tips! It is important to listen to their point of view. Tell them about your feelings and concerns. If you have a plan - let them know what it is.
if you feel you aren't able to do this without help, you could ask someone you trust to help you to talk about it with your parents.
4 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
The legal bit!
what happens if i miss a lot of school?
Your school must report any student that is missing for 20 days or more to the Educational Welfare Services.
If the absence is unexplained an Educational Welfare Officer will talk to the school and then may decide to contact you in an effort to improve your school attendance (this may involve a visit to your home).
An Educational Welfare Officer will help you in whatever way they can to ensure that you get an education by either going back to school regularly or receiving an education elsewhere.
www.tusla.ie/services/educational-welfare-services
Contact the Educational Welfare Services regional office on 01 7718633 to be put in touch with the right person for your school / area.
who is responsible for me attending school?
Under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, your parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring that you attend school or receive an education elsewhere.
will my parents / guardians be brought to court if i miss school?
The Educational Welfare Officer has your best interests in mind and will try to provide whatever supports are needed to help you to attend school. If however, you or your family are not willing to work with the Educational Welfare Officer to make sure that you get the education you need, the matter may be referred to the courts. Legal action is the very last option.
5 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Specific difficulties @ school
If you are unhappy in school, it is really important to talk to someone. There are people who are willing to help and offer you support and advice on how best to improve your school experience, or discuss what other options are available.
Contact 01 771 8633 to be put in touch with your local Educational Welfare Officer.
i am being bullied in school – who can help?
Your school should have an anti-bullying policy that states what will be done if someone is being bullied. Tell your parents and / or a teacher in school what is happening. Don’t try to cope with this issue alone.
i’m pregnant – do i have to leave school?
No, there is no need for you to leave school. There are many supports available within school to help you.
If you do need to be absent from school in the later stages of pregnancy or immediately following the birth of your baby, you are entitled to home tuition (10 hours a week for 10 weeks).
Contact the Department of Education and Skills ‘Home Tuition’ section. Ph: 076 110 8581 www.education.ie
Contact your local Intreo Office to find out about social welfare entitlements. Dun Laoghaire, Ph: 01 2145540 www.welfare.ie Rathfarnham, Ph: 01 6732000
6 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Specific difficulties @ school For Parents!
my 14 yr old child refuses to go to school, what should i do?
Talk to the school and see if there are any ongoing problems that can be dealt with. Talk to the Educational Welfare Officer or ask for the NEPS psychologist assigned to the school to become involved.
i’m worried about my friend, i don’t know what to do:
She has started to drink every weekend and is missing a lot of school. She seems very stressed about something but won’t talk to any of her friends about what’s going on. How can I help her?
Don’t take it all on yourself - ask someone for advice.
Encourage your friend to talk to someone they trust, perhaps a family member, school counsellor, a youth worker or a friend.
Give your friend a list of supports that may be able to help.
list of supports: Childline: (24hrs a day) 1800 66 66 66 or txt ‘Talk’ to 50101 www.childline.ie
Teenline: (8-11pm 7 days a week) 1800 833 634 or txt ‘Teen’ to 50015 www.teenline.ie
Teen Counselling: Boylan Centre, Dun Laoghaire 01 557 4705
online supports: www.reachout.com www.yourmentalhealth.ie www.spunout.ie
7 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Specific difficulties @ school how do i change schools?
You need to apply in writing to the school of your choice, including your age and year to which you are applying. Also, request a copy of the school’s admission policy. The school should then give you a decision in writing within 21 days.
my local school won’t let me enrol, what now?
If a school has refused you a school place and you are not happy with that decision, you can appeal it under what is called a Section 29 Appeal (see below).
i’ve been suspended (20 days or more) / expelled - what happens now?
Your school must notify the Educational Welfare Services. If you are not happy with this decision your parents (or you, if you are 18+) have a right to appeal under ?what is called a Section 29 Appeal. You can do this by filling in an Appeals form which is available on request from the school or downloadable from the Department of Education and Skills website. Section 29 Appeal If you attend an ETB school, you must first appeal to the ETB - your school will give you a form. If unsuccessful in this appeal, you then can appeal to the Dept. of Education and Skills.
www.education.ie (parents Section) appeals admin unit: 0761 108 588
Contact 01 771 8633 to be put in touch with your local Educational Welfare Officer.
8 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !! Supports @ school educational welfare Services
The Educational Welfare Officers’ job is to offer advice, support and guidance to parents or guardians whose children are experiencing difficulties in going to school.
They will help you in whatever way they can to ensure that you get an education by going back to school regularly or receiving an education elsewhere.
www.tusla.ie/services/educational-welfare-services
Contact 01 771 8633 to be put in touch with your local Educational Welfare Officer.
School completion programme coordinators
Their role is to provide supports to young people aged 4-18 years in order to help them to stay in school. The supports provided depend on your individual needs. Programmes include after-school supports, mentoring programmes, breakfast clubs and homework clubs.
local Schools with School completion programme:
Ballinteer community School, Ballinteer ph: 01 298 8195 cabinteely community School, Johnstown rd ph: 01 285 2137 holy child community School, Sallynoggin ph: 01 285 5334 St. tiernan’s community School, Sandyford ph: 01 295 3224 St. laurence college, loughlinstown ph: 01 282 6930
9 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Supports @ school home / School / community liaison coordinators Their role is to act as a link between the school and home. They encourage parents to become more involved in a young person’s education through courses, talks, etc. They will discuss any aspect of school that may be causing anxiety or stress to a young person or a parent.
School guidance counsellors Guidance Counsellors will inform and advise you of the many education, training and employment options open to you. They will help guide you through these options to choose the best one for you. If you are thinking of leaving school early, your guidance counsellor will give you information on your options after you leave. This service is available in all schools.
home tuition This may be provided when a young person (under 16) cannot go to school because of a serious medical problem or for children with special educational needs looking for a suitable school place. The Educational Welfare Officer can advise you and help you to make an application.
Special needs Supports The local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) provides information and assistance to parents who have children with special educational needs or those who have concerns that their children may need some extra supports .
contact the local Seno through the school or www.ncse.ie contact an educational welfare officer who will listen to your particular set of circumstances and advise you who to contact. (01) 771 8633
10 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Other ways to do yourleavingcert
leaving certificate applied (lca)
This two year programme consists of four half-year ‘sessions’. Modules include technology, science, the arts, social education, leisure and language. The programme has a strong practical and vocational emphasis and includes work experience.
Assessment is continuous throughout the course and there is also a final examination. The written examinations take place in June at the same time as the examinations for the Leaving Certificate. Student’s final award is based on their credits (Pass, Merit, Distinction).
for more info check out www.pdst.ie/lca
local Schools offering leaving cert applied
Cabinteely Community School, Johnstown Rd. Ph: 01 285 2137 Rockford Manor, Stradbrook Rd., Blackrock Ph: 01 280 1522 Holy Child Community School, Sallynoggin Ph: 01 285 5334 Newpark Comprehensive School, Blackrock Ph: 01 288 3724 St. Tiernan’s Community School, Sandyford Ph: 01 295 3224
11 BEFORE YOU LEAVE !!
Other ways to do your leaving cert
leaving certificate vocational programme (lcvp)
This two-year programme allows students to develop their vocational skills and explore career options. Students usually do 7 Leaving Certificate subjects plus 2 link modules which are Enterprise Education and Preparation for the World of Work. There is also an opportunity to develop and apply their IT skills.
Students receive the same certificate as other Leaving Certificate students but their Leaving Certificate includes an additional statement of the results of the Link Modules (Pass, Merit or Distinction) which give points for Institutes of Technology and Universities.
further information at www.pdst.ie/nationalprogrammes
local schools offering lcvp
Blackrock College, Blackrock Ph: 01 288 8681 Newpark Comprehensive Sch, Blackrock Ph: 01 288 3724 Oatlands College, Stillorgan Ph: 01 288 8533 St. Benildus College, Kilmacud, Stillorgan Ph: 01 298 7836 St Laurence College, Loughlinstown Ph: 01 282 6930
12 LEFT SCHOOL ?
Local supports
youth advocate - provides mentoring, career guidance and information to young people aged 16-21 years. It is mainly for young people who have left school early and are attending Youthreach/Training Centres but referrals from those looking for training options or those who are out of school can also be made.
ph: 01 284 1194 / 086 814 8359
ddletB youth and Sport development Services - provides support for educational and recreational programmes, projects and services to disadvantaged young people. This is done with local communities, voluntary groups and youth organisations.
youth officer ph: 01 452 8404 www.ddletb.ie
crosscare youth information Service - Provides a free and confidential information service for all young people on a wide range of topics including courses, sports & leisure clubs, finding a job, and rights and entitlements.
contact crosscare youth information Service, Boylan centre Sussex Street ph: 01 284 4085 ‘option 1’ facebook crosscareyouthinfo twitter @youthinfodub email: [email protected]
13 LEFT SCHOOL
Alternative choices alternative learning programme dun laoghaire (alp)
ALP provides an educational programme for those under 16 who are not currently in formal education. It runs 3 days per week during school term and is designed to be as easy as possible for young people to attend. The programme is delivered by local Youth Workers and DDLETB Tutors and offers a variety of activities and lessons. Through group work, the programme places huge emphasis on building supportive and trusting relationships between participants and staff.
A new partnership has been developed with iScoil, an online learning community that offers an alternative path to learning, accreditation and progression. This will give young people an opportunity to gain certification at QQI Level 3 (equivalent to Junior Cert).
Referrals to ALP must be made by the Educational Welfare Officer and School Principal and supported by the Parent or Guardian.
alternative learning programme, library road, dun laoghaire ph: 01 202 0959 email: [email protected] part-time QQi level 3 - dun laoghaire
This DDLETB course offers training for those aged 18+ who have left school early and want to return to education to learn new skills. Modules include Maths, Communications, Art, I.T. and Social Media. Social Welfare payments are not affected (subject to DSP approval).
[email protected] ph: 01 204 3681 [email protected] ph: 01 204 3681
14 LEFT SCHOOL Alternative choices youthreach training programme www.youthreach.ie Youthreach is a one / two year programme for unemployed early school leavers aged 15-20 years. Priority is given to those aged 16+ and centres will accept limited applications from 15 year olds on a case-by-case basis. Benefits: Training is free. A travel and lunch allowance is paid if you live more than 5km away from the centre. Training allowance is paid if aged 16+. The opportunity to gain a National Qualification e.g. QQI (FETAC) level 3 + 4 major awards (www.nfq.ie)
Local Centres:
Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre QQI levels 3 & 4. The core areas include : Industrial Skills, Catering, IT Skills, Hair Care & Beauty Therapy, Pre-Apprenticeship (Science and Engineering) Programme, Childcare and a Work Experience Programme. 41A York Rd, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Ph: 01 284 1194 www.dlctc.ie
Sportsreach QQI level 4 Modules include: Communications, Maths, IT, Soccer, Health Related Fitness, Art, Personal Effectiveness, Work Experience. Also Sports & Recreation and Life Skills Programmes. St Joseph's Football Club, Pearse Park, Sallynoggin, Co. Dublin. Ph: 01 235 1500 (Elaine Bartley) or Ph: 01 201 3878 (Sinead Murphy) [email protected] [email protected]
Rathfarnham Youthreach QQI levels 3 & 4 Modules include: Communications, Maths, Computer Literacy, Art, Personal & Interpersonal Skills, Health & Fitness, Catering and Work Experience. Mountainview Hse, Meadow Park Ave, Rathfarnham. D.14. Ph: 01 296 3413
15 LEFT SCHOOL
Alternative choices local centres cont’d:
tivoli training centre www.tivolitrainingcentre.ie The centre is funded through the Probation Service and accepts referrals for young people who are on probation or ‘at risk’ of offending. Self and other referrals are also accepted. QQI levels 3 & 4 with a number of additional programmes and activities on offer. 24 Tivoli Terrace South, Dun Laoghaire. Ph: 01 284 1028 part-time QQi level 4 - dun laoghaire This DDLETB course offers training for those aged 18+ who have left school early and now want to return to education and learn new skills. This will improve employability skills and increase options for higher level education. Modules include Communications, Maths, IT Skills, Childcare, Digital Media and Human Biology. Social Welfare payments are not affected (subject to DSP approval).
[email protected] ph: 01 204 3681 [email protected] ph: 01 204 3681 the Back to education initiative (Btei) This offers part-time accredited courses to young people and adults. Generally those over 16 years with less than Leaving Cert are eligible to take part on a BTEI. The Adult Education Service in Dun Laoghaire provides part-time BTEI courses for those aged 18+ at QQI levels 3,4 and 5. Priority is given to those on Social Welfare.
[email protected] ph: 01 204 3681 [email protected] ph: 01 204 3681
16 LEFT SCHOOL Alternative choices national learning network This programme offers training and education to young people aged 16+ with extra support needs and helps them to learn the skills they need to get a job or progress to further education. Aimed mainly at people with a disability, anyone facing obstacles in the search for work should enquire about the courses available. They offer QQI levels 3, 4 and 5.
Contact: www.nln.ie Roslyn Park College, Sandymount Ph: 01 261 3400 NLN, Boghall Road, Bray Ph: 01 282 9643
taSk programme (Training Awareness Skills and Knowledge) This QQI level 4 Employment Skills Programme is open to unemployed young Travellers and settled people aged 16+ living in Dun Laoghaire / Rathdown. No formal qualifications are needed and modules include Maths, IT, Career Planning and Customer Service. A training allowance is paid.
Southside Travellers, Sandyford, Dublin 18 Ph: 01 295 7372 Margaret Stafford 087 178 3529 www.southsidetravellers.org
festina lente (Equestrian Training Programme) This SOLAS funded programme provides learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to progress to working in the equestrian industry or onto further studies through working with and caring for horses. It is aimed at those aged 16+ and on a disability allowance, but if you have a learning disability or are an early school leaver who received resource/SNA supports in school, you may still be able to take part. On completion of the course you will receive a QQI level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship.
Contact: Jacqueline 087 963 3348 www.festinalente.ie Old Connaught Avenue, Bray Ph: 01 272 0704
17 LEFT SCHOOL
Further education without the leaving cert
With so much attention on the Leaving Certificate, you may be forgiven if you have overlooked the fact that there is a wealth of careers and courses that can be accessed without your Leaving Certificate. apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a way of combining work experience and training to get a ‘trade’ or become a qualified craft person. It generally takes 4 years to complete an apprenticeship.
Apprentices must
Be at least 16 years. Have a minimum of grade D in any five subjects in the Junior Cert or equivalent (some apprenticeships require certain subjects). However, some employers prefer you to have the Leaving Cert. Find an employer who is willing to register you with SOLAS for a standard-based apprenticeship.
Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre has a Pre-Apprenticeship (Science & Engineering Programme) for those who don’t have their Junior Cert. Examples of standard based apprenticeships are Carpentry, Plumbing, Motor Mechanics, Plastering etc.
Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board www.ddletb.ie Contact your local DDLETB Training Centre for more info - Loughlinstown 01 204 3600
Intreo Centre, Dun Laoghaire Ph: 01 214 5540 Intreo Centre, Rathfarnham Ph: 01 673 2000
18 LEFT SCHOOL
Further education without the leaving cert
hairdressing
The minimum age for a hairdressing apprenticeship is 16 but many salons only accept those aged 17+. Hairdressers usually do a 3-4 year apprenticeship including some off-the-job training such as night classes and some assessment. DDLETB offer some short-term hairdressing courses giving trainees the basic skills so that they can get a job as a junior hairdresser.
www.ddletb.ie www.dublintrainingcentres.ie Intreo Dun Laoghaire Ph: 01 214 5540 Intreo Rathfarnham Ph: 01 673 2000
Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre has a one year ‘Diploma in Hair & Beauty Services’ course (equivalent to QQI level 4) aimed at young people aged 16 - 21, who have left school without completing their Leaving Cert.
Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre Ph: 01 284 1194 www.dlctc.ie
There are full & part-time hairdressing courses at Colleges of Further Education and Private colleges. Locally, Sallynoggin College of Further Education has a ‘Hairdressing & Beauty Specialist’ course and may accept people without the Leaving Cert.
Sallynoggin College of Further Education Ph: 01 2852997 www.scfe.ie
19 LEFT SCHOOL
Further education without the leaving cert defence forces
general Service recruitment -
You must be at least 18 & under 25 years of age (27 for Naval Services). You must be at least 5ft 2in/157.4cm. You must pass a medical examination and a physical fitness test. No formal education qualifications are required for recruits but you must satisfy an interview board and recruiting officer that you have a good enough level of education for service in the Defence Forces.
www.military.ie
Recruitment Ph: 1890 426555 / [email protected] Navy Ph: 1890 262828
military apprenticeships - apprentices in the defence forces receive training for their chosen trade, as well as military training.
army / air corps - recruitment competitions are held as required. recruits undergo 17 weeks initial training which includes foot drill, arms drill, fieldcraft, first aid, rifle marksmanship, tactical and physical training. recruits have to live in the barracks for initial training.
naval - recruitment competitions are held as required. recruits training lasts 20 weeks and on successful completion of the course the recruit takes up a postition as an ordinary Seaman aboard one of the ships of the irish naval Service.
20 LEFT SCHOOL
Further education without the leaving cert
ddletB training centres Offers training for those who wish to improve their skills or look for a job. May accept applications from 16 years for certain courses. Courses include ECDL, retail sales and warehouse operations.
www.ddletb.ie www.dublintrainingcentres.ie
DDLETB Training Centre, Loughlinstown, Ph: 01 204 3600 Intreo Dun Laoghaire, Ph: 01 214 5540 Intreo Rathfarnham, Ph: 01 673 2000
horse-racing - trainee Jockey course A 42 week residential programme aimed at young people aged 16+. Applicants should should have completed Junior Cert and have some horse-riding experience. Successful participants are awarded the QQI level 4 Major Award in Racehorse Care and Riding.
RACE, Curragh Hse, Kildare. Ph: 045 522468 www.racingacademy.ie
teagasc These courses offer a wide range of career options if you wish to make a career in agriculture, horticulture, horses or forestry. There is no minimum educational requirement for some courses (details on their website). Paid work experience is part of these courses.
www.teagasc.ie or Ph: 059 917 0200
21 LEFT SCHOOL
Further education without the leaving cert colleges of further education
offer practical courses, mostly with QQi awards levels 5 & 6. occasional opportunities for those without leaving certificate to apply for certain courses. will take people at 16 years for some courses. examples of local courses that may accept those without leaving certificate:
dance performing arts floristry photography childcare Studies office Skills computers / ecdl Security studies
local colleges of further education
Dun Laoghaire Further Education Institute, Cumberland Street Tel: 01 280 9676 www.dfei.ie Blackrock Further Education Institute, Main Street, Blackrock Tel: 01 288 9717 www.bfei.ie Sallynoggin College of Further Education, Pearse Street Tel: 01 285 2997 www.scfe.ie Bray Institute of Further Education, Novara Road, Bray Tel: 01 282 9668 www.bife.ie Stillorgan College, Old Dublin Road Tel: 01 288 0704 www.stillorgancollege.ie Dundrum College, Main St. Dundrum. Tel: 01 298 5412 www.cfedundrum.com
22 MONEY MATTERS
Money matters when studying SolaS course training allowance an age-related training allowance is paid to those who are attending a training course in etB, youthreach or community training centres. full details of rates available from local centres. those over 18 need to be assessed by social welfare as being eligible for payment before training allowance is paid.
travel and accommodation & meal allowance you may be entitled to travel or accommodation & meal allowance (not both) while attending a training course in ddletB training centre, youthreach or community training centres. rates available from SolaS.
childcare the childcare employment & training Support (cetS) scheme allow parents on certain etB courses to access subsidised childcare places for the duration of their training. contact the centre you will be attending for details.
apprenticeships apprentices are paid the agreed industrial apprentice wage rate by the employer - the actual rate paid may vary depending on the occupation and employer. generally, rates are based on the year and increase during the apprenticeship. details should be checked with the prospective employer.
during off-the-job training, all apprentices are paid an apprentice allowance and a contribution towards travel or accommodation costs, where appropriate. full details of rates available from SolaS.
23 MONEY MATTERS
Money matters when studying Ba ck to education allowance (Btea)
if you are unemployed,parenting alone or have a disability and getting certain payments from the department of Social protection, you may do an approved 2nd or 3rd level course and get Btea.
if you’re aged under 26 & getting a reduced age-related Jobseeker’s allowance payment, you will get a maximum Btea rate of €160 per week (any means participants have will be deducted from this rate).
you cannot get the Btea and the maintenance part of the student grant. however, you can still apply for a fee grant to pay your Student contribution, field trip costs and tuition fees (if payable). See below for information on Student grants.
in general, you must be over 21, however you may also qualify for Btea if you: are aged between 18 and 20 years are out of formal education for two years, (not required for certain disability payments) and getting one of the following social welfare payments: Jobseeker's allowance, Jobseeker's Benefit, one-parent family payment or certain disability payments for at least - 3 months (78 days) for the Second level and 9 months (234 days) for the third level option. time spent on youthreach can count towards this.
Further information on eligibility can be found on www.welfare.ie or www.citizensinformation.ie
Student grant if you are attending a full-time course in a college of further education or a third level college, you may be eligible for a student grant.
Further information on eligibility can be found on www.studentfinance.ie or www.susi.ie or call to Crosscare Youth Information Service
24 EMPLOYMENT
Career directions how to choose a career
Some people know from an early age what they would like to do - a teacher, an electrician, a bus-driver perhaps - but there are many who have no definite ideas about what career they would like.
One of the keys in choosing the right career for you is an awareness of your own skills, abilities and potential. Information on how to achieve your goals and access the opportunities available is essential.
a good place to start your research is:
www.qualifax.ie www.nightcourses.com www.careersportal.ie www.gotocollege.ie
Talk to people who are doing the career you would like.
work experience - There are often opportunities through training courses to gain work experience in a chosen career. This is an ideal way to get a real feel for a job.
School guidance counsellors - even when you have made a decision to leave school, guidance counsellors can meet with you to discuss your options.
youth advocate - based in Youthreach centres, they provide a career guidance service to young people.
25 EMPLOYMENT
Finding a job
Step (Support, training and enterprise programme) Is a training programme for unemployed 17-25 year olds who are out of school and unsure of their job choices. The programme offers QQI Level 4 and aims to channel young people into employment or further education. A training allowance is paid. Courses run from September to June and applications are accepted throughout the year.
Contact YMCA, Aungier St., Dublin 2. Ph: 01 478 2607 www.ymca.ie/step
intreo -integrated employment & Support Service Intreo provides a one-stop shop for employment services and income supports with a range of personalised supports to jobseekers (18+). Once you have registered, you will be given details of a group information session where you will be told about the full range of support services available from Intreo, including income, training/ education and employment supports. Depending on your personal profile, you may be given an appointment for a further meeting with a DSP case officer. At this meeting your case officer will discuss your options with you and agree your Personal Progression Plan to prepare you to find employment. You will get ongoing advice and support to help you meet the goals in your Personal Progression Plan.
www.welfare.ie Local Offices: Intreo Centre, Cumberland St., Dun Laoghaire Ph: 01 214 5540 Intreo, Nutgrove Shopping Centre Ph: 01 673 2000
dun laoghaire youth Service Jobs initiative The Jobs Initiative Programme aims to support young people 16 - 25 years to progress into employment or further education / training by identifying resources to best meet the young persons individual needs.
Contact Crosscare YIS, Boylan Centre Ph: 01 284 4085 ext 1 26 EMPLOYMENT
Rights when you work As a young person, you have rights when you are at work. It is important that you make yourself aware of your rights & entitlements and exercise those rights…….
AGE LIMITS For a regular full-time job, the minimum age is 16. If you are 14 or 15, you can only do light work during the school holidays you can take part in work experience during term time you must have at least a 3 week break during the summer you may be employed in film, theatre, sports or advertising (under licence)
Maximum Hours of work per week As a young person, you cannot be asked to work beyond the maximum hours for your age.
14yrs 15yrs 16/17yrs
term-time No hours 8 hours a week 40 hours a week (8 hours a day) holidays 35 hours a week 35 hours a week 40 hours a week (7 hours a day) (7 hours a day) work 40hrs a week 40 hours a week 40 hours a week experience (8 hours a day) (8 hours a day)
Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage is €9.25 per hour. However, if you are under 18 years, you are only entitled to 70% of the minimum wage which is €6.48 per hour.
27 EMPLOYMENT
Rights when you work Rest Breaks
When working, you are entitled to proper breaks:
u 16s 16 & 17
30 mins after 30 mins after 30 mins break working 4 hours working 4.5 hours
Every 24 hours 14 hours off 12 hours off
Weekly 2 days off 2 days off
Early Morning & Night Work
In general, young people are restricted in working late nights and early mornings.
U 16s 16 & 17
Early morning after 8am after 6am
Night work up to 8pm up to 10pm - with school next morning up to 11pm Night work up to 8pm (and not before - without school next morning 7am next morning)
28 ADULTS WHO HAVE LEFT SCHOOL EARLY
education
It is never too late to return to study as mature students are often exempt from standard entry requirements. Here are a few organisations who can help...
dun laoghaire adult education Service, DDLETB Training Centre, Wyatville Road, Loughlinstown, Co. Dublin Adult Guidance & Information Service Ph: 01 204 3609 Dun Laoghaire Adult Learning Centre Ph: 01 204 3681
adult education Service, Sydenham Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Adult Guidance & Information Service Ph: 01 298 9283 South Dublin Adult Learning Centre Ph: 01 296 4321 DATE (Dundrum Adult Training & Education) Ph: 01 296 4322
intreo employment & Support Service Intreo Centre, Cumberland St., Dun Laoghaire Ph: 01 214 5540 Intreo Centre, Nutgrove S.C., Rathfarnham Ph: 01 673 2000
ddletB training centre, loughlinstown Ph: 01 204 3600
employment
Southside partnership local employment Service (leS) A free, confidential and personal service for anyone in Dun Laoghaire / Rathdown who is unemployed and job seeking. contact: 137 Oliver Plunkett Road, Monkstown, Ph: 01 284 1977, freephone 1800 200501
29 SOUTHSIDE PARTNERSHIP www.southsidepartnership.ie
Southside Partnership is a well-established local development company operating in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. We work with targeted groups and individuals across the county and have designed supports and programmes to suit their needs. We also work with those who have left school early and those who are unemployed.
For young people not in education, training or employment we offer a range of one to one supports and training opportunities that are flexible and personalised.
Southside Partnership’s core programme is the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), funded by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government through the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)).
For more information about our work contact Sandra Campbell or Finn McGuirk on 01 7060 100
DLR D RUG AND ALCOHOL TASK FORCE www.dlrdrugtaskforce.ie
If you need help with a drug or alcohol problem, and /or other youth issues you should contact one of the services listed below. They are there to listen to your concerns, to support you in looking at options and to help you make a decision about a positive way forward.
They may help you to access a more specialist service if this is required, or give you advice and information to protect yourself and reduce the harms arising from your behaviour. They may also suggest you participate in activities with others to help you talk about the issues and reduce your concerns.
Youth Prevention Programme Úna Kenny, Mounttown NYFP, C/O Holy Family School, Dunedin Park, Monkstown Farm, Glenageary, Co. Dublin 01 284 4596 086-1731187 Fax: 01 230 1716 [email protected]
Petra Eaglesfield, Ballyogan Family Resource Centre, Samuel Beckett Civic Campus, Ballyogan Road, Carrickmines, Dublin 18 Tel: 01 295 3219 Fax: 01 299 9002 [email protected]
30 INDEX a Adult Education & Literacy Services 29 Adult Guidance Service 29 Alternative Learning Programme 14 Appeal Process (Section 29) 8 Apprenticeships 18
B Back to Education Allowance 24 Back to Education Initiative 16 Bullying 6
c Career Guidance 10,25 Changing Schools 8 Childcare Support 23 Colleges of Further Education 22
d Defence Forces 20 DLR Drug & Alcohol Task Force 30 Dun Laoghaire Community Training Centre 15 DLYS Jobs Initiative 26 DDLETB Youth & Sport Development Services 13 DDLETB Training Centres 21
e Educational Welfare Officer & Services 9 Employment Rights 27 Expelled from School 8
f Festina Lente (Equestrian Training Programme) 17 Financial Support 23
h Helplines 7 Home tuition 10 Home / School / Community Liaison Coordinators 10 Hairdressing 19 Horse Racing / Trainee Jockey 21
31 i Intreo / Employment Services 26 l Leaving Certificate Applied 11 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme 12 Legal Issues 5 Local Employment Service 29 n National Learning Network 17 p Part-time QQI Level 3 14 Part-time QQI Level 4 16 Pregnancy 6
S School Attendance 5 School Completion Programme 9 School Enrollments 8 School Guidance Counsellors 10 Southside Partnership 30 Special Needs Supports 10 Sportsreach 15 STEP Programme 26 Student Grant 24 Suspended from School 8 t TASK Programme 17 Teagasc 21 Tivoli Training Centre 16 Training Allowances 23 y Youth Advocate 13 Youth Information Centre 13 YouthreachTraining Programme 15 Youthreach, Rathfarnham 15
32 WHO WE ARE ....
Crosscare Dun Laoghaire Youth Service
We provide area-based youth work projects throughout the greater Dun Laoghaire area. Other services include Youth Information, Drug Education, Youth Arts & Theatre, Youth Café, Adventure Sports and Garda Youth Diversion Project. These projects provide youth-centred developmental and educational projects for young people primarily between the ages of 10-21 years of age, designed to enhance their personal and social development.
If you are interested in accessing any of the youth projects, just phone or drop into the Boylan Youth Centre. Contact Ciara Murphy, Crosscare Dun Laoghaire Youth Service, Boylan Youth Centre, Sussex St., Dun Laoghaire. Ph: 2844085, [email protected]
Youth Information Service
Provides a free and confidential information service for all young people (15 - 25yrs) on a wide range of topics including courses, college grants, sports & leisure clubs, finding a job/ cv preparation, rights & entitlements.
Call in, phone, text or e-mail, no appointment is necessary!
Crosscare Youth Information Service, Boylan Centre, Dun Laoghaire. Ph: 284 4085, ext 1; txt: 086 237 0067; e-mail: [email protected]; www.facebook.com/Crosscareyouthinfo @YouthInfoDub W: youthinfo.crosscare.ie
33 Are you aged 15 - 18? Thinking of leaving school early? Are you already out of school?
Wondering what to do next?
It’s always worth spending a bit of time checking out what is right for YOU!
Whatever your situation, you will find someone who can provide the support or information you need.
This booklet is about helping you