LIMERICK Community Education Network (LCEN) marked 30 years of the network with the launch of an impact review of its commitment to the support and provision of education in communities across Limerick City.
LCEN is a city-wide network of community and voluntary groups and statutory agencies involved in the organisation and delivery of community education in Limerick. The role of the network is to provide a representative voice that promotes and influences developments in Community Education.
It represents over 16 organisations and in excess of 2,500 learners across the city.
Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said: “At the heart of the LCEN are the people in Limerick communities. Those who continue to engage and attend community education classes. Indeed, these learners, along with the Community Education tutors, partners and supporters strengthen and sustain community education in Limerick.”
“Community Education is making a real impact on the lives of those learners who participate, by responding to their needs. It is now more important than ever that we recognise community education for its ability to foster social cohesion and active citizenship.”
The Impact Review launched at the event uncovered key insights into the network’s role. It highlighted its robust network structure as a key strength, as well as a commitment to inclusive and accessible education, and advocacy for educational quality that centres on learner needs. Capacity building is also noted in the review as a strategic focus for LCEN, pivotal in supporting member organisations and enhancing the quality of education delivery.
The Chairperson of LCEN, Gillian Baker of ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services, said: “We are particularly delighted to be celebrating 30 years with our network partners here today, as we work collectively in supporting and promoting community education in Limerick City.”
“The Impact Review evaluation report being launched today highlights the impact of the work of the LCEN, while also identifying some opportunities for further growth and development. This important research was conducted by our independent researcher Kathy McLoughlin of Synergy Ireland and Kathy also presented the key findings this morning at the launch.”
Recommendations arising from the Impact Review found that LCEN has key strengths but there are also areas for further growth development. It outlined enhanced communication, secure funding, and strengthening of partnerships as vital areas for further growth. The report also recommended that LCEN and its partners work together for enhanced policies and support. With these changes, LCEN can continue making a positive impact in Limerick.
Sile O’Riordan, Community Education Facilitator at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, said: “A strength of community education, and one recognised by SOLAS which is the national body which funds Further Education and Training, is the range of bottom-up initiatives developed to serve the particular needs of a local area.”
“Here in Limerick, the role of the LCEN using the local reach of its members and working in partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board is central to ensuring the provision of a broad range of learning options across the city. Indeed, the LCEN is cited as an example of best practice nationally, one supporting co-ordination and collaboration.
“We were also particularly delighted last June to have supported the launch of the national Community Education Framework, together with SOLAS, and key partners from the Further Education and Training (FET) sector at Southill Hub.”
