BellTime Magazine BellTime 11-5 | Page 20

BellTIME BLACKROCK FURTHER EDUCATION INSTITUTE The Importance of the College Experience The college experience is central to a successful and enjoyable engagement with Further Education. At Blackrock Further Education Institute (BFEI), learners study in an award winning campus, arguably one of the best in Ireland. The wide range of courses on offer, provide learners a pathway to Higher Education or directly to employment. However, it is the range of activities, both educational and extra-curricular, that contribute most to a positive college experience and will be remembered fondly by learners. BFEI believes it is important to encourage events and activities that present opportunities to make new friends, bond teams and collaborate. This year, BFEI formed a workplace choir and recently performed in the Lexicon Theatre Dún Laoghaire. The greater challenge will be to out-sing the BFEI learners at the upcoming Christmas Festivities! Examples from recent weeks in BFEI include; Design Department’s Architectural Trip to Berlin Berlin; one of Europe’s great cities; steeped in history, division, unity, destruction and reconstruction. A city of buildings and styles that represent periods of Imperialism, Fascism, Communism and Capitalism. A truly wonderful destination for our Design learners. Erasmus+ Many FE colleges are beginning to realise the potential of the Erasmus+ programme where teachers and learners visit European partners and exchange ideas, knowledge and practice. BFEI is playing a leading role. Again this year some Beauty Therapy learners will complete 3 weeks of work experience in Tenerife with 4 and 5-star spas 38 And for the staff and salons. For the first time, selected students in Computer Science and Network Security will complete work placements in Utrecht, The Netherlands. BFEI has already hosted a number of European teachers and Dutch students will visit us in early 2019. There are ambitious plans to greatly enhance these links for the 2019/2020 academic year. A full list of activities, social nights, competitions, societies, charity works, workshops, presentations, guest-speakers, etc. is far too long for this article. Current and prospective BFEI learners are strongly encouraged to follow our events on social media. A positive college experience motivates learners, creates lasting friendships, improves retention rates and assessment results. It creates a welcoming, caring environment for study and work. If studying in Blackrock Further Education Institute is of interest to you or someone you know, our next Open Day is on Wednesday 22nd May 2019. Online applications for the 2019/20 academic year are currently open. Google ‘Blackrock Further Education’ or go directly to w w w . b f e i . i e for further details. Competition for Erasmus+ places is demanding and based on learner attendance, high standard of work and formal interviews. Open Salon Days All learners (and staff ) can avail of some wonderful and relaxing beauty treatments. No further explanation required. www.bfei.ie 39