An Erasmus+ European Learning Experience for Deansrath Further Ed Students

Summary

Empowering Dreams, Deansrath Community College’s Erasmus+ project, created meaningful opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with fewer opportunities to experience life, learning, and work in Málaga, Spain. The project strengthened their European identity and fostered a sense of belonging within a broader cultural community. Students gained valuable practical experience in settings such as schools, crèches, nursing homes, and social agencies - enhancing their cultural awareness, transversal life skills, and overall employability. 

“Erasmus+ gave me an opportunity to work with IncluDD, a social organisation in Spain. I left work placement each day inspired, reminded that everyone deserves support, respect and a chance to fully engage in their community regardless of circumstance.”  

Topic(s) addressed 

• Promoting social inclusion
• Active citizenship
• Actively engaging and participating in communities

Target group(s)  

• Deansrath FE learners completing a QQI Major Award: 100%
• Participants with fewer opportunities: 80%

Methodologies used 

Deansrath Community College’s inclusive approach to planning and implementing Erasmus+ project activities actively engaged participants with fewer opportunities, ensuring access for a diverse range of learners. Each participant was supported step by step by mentoring staff - from the application stage through to the mobility activity and final evaluation. High-quality work placements were carefully selected to match each learner’s knowledge, strengths, and needs. 

Learners had the opportunity to apply subject-related knowledge and classroom practices from Ireland to real-world settings during their work placements in Málaga. Ongoing feedback and support ensured sustained engagement, helped address challenges, and encouraged meaningful reflection throughout the experience.

Innovation environment 

Erasmus+ created valuable opportunities for learners of all backgrounds and ages, enabling them to develop and share knowledge and experiences through placements in institutions and organisations in another European country. 

Learners engaged with innovative techniques and approaches beyond the classroom through work placements in a range of settings, including schools, early learning and care centres, nursing homes, medical clinics, and social organisations. Many worked with vulnerable individuals, supporting social integration through planned, purposeful actions. 

The programme also fostered environmentally sustainable practices among learners. Through initiatives such as zero paper use and the introduction of a Digital Student Travel Pack, Erasmus+ helped raise climate awareness and promoted responsibility and respect for the environment. 

Teachers’ role 

Deansrath’s Erasmus+ team of teachers collaborated closely with learners and European partners to plan and implement the project. Teachers guided students in developing personalised learning agreements, empowering them to take ownership of their tasks and responsibilities. 

Shared digital folders provided a clear, structured, and collaborative space for planning - helping to build anticipation, share key information, and encourage questions. 

Accompanying teachers mentored, monitored, and supported learners throughout the mobility experience, always available to help make decisions and resolve challenges efficiently. 

New practical work skills gained through the project were integrated into course delivery, enriching the overall educational experience and improving student outcomes.

Impact and output 

Learners and teachers at Deansrath Community College have benefitted socially, culturally, and academically from their participation in this Erasmus+ project. The experience helped build positive, supportive relationships and fostered a genuine sense of belonging to a wider cultural community. It was a rich learning process for all involved, extending beyond work-related skills to include essential lifelong learning competences. 

The social and intercultural skills gained by both learners and teachers have become embedded in everyday best practice at Deansrath, contributing to a more inclusive, respectful, and culturally aware learning environment. 

Erasmus+ has played a key role in supporting our learners to become active, informed, and responsible citizens, ready to take ownership of their futures and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Learn more about the project

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