(Photo: BCFE BCFE Stage 1 and Stage 2 Childcare students, and QQI Level 5 Healthcare students, on their recent Erasmus+ trip to Finland.)
Eleven students and four staff members from Ballinasloe College of Further Education (BCFE) recently returned from a highly successful Erasmus+ trip to Finland.
Stage 1 and Stage 2 Early Childcare Education and QQI Level 5 Healthcare learners took part in an immersive five day educational experience hosted by Eduko Vocational College in south-east Finland.
The fully-funded trip, organised through the Erasmus+ programme, offered students a unique opportunity to experience how vocational education and care services operate in one of Europe’s most highly regarded education and healthcare systems. Students were warmly welcomed by staff and learners at Eduko Vocational College and participated in a varied programme of professional observation, cultural exchange and hands on learning.
For students studying Stage 1 and Stage 2 Early Childhood Care and Education, one of the most memorable aspects of the trip was the opportunity to observe a Finnish forest preschool, a key part of Finland’s early years education model. In this setting, children spend
the majority of their day outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. Learning in the forest preschool centred on child led play, exploration and independence.
Participants were struck by the calm, confident manner in which children engaged with their surroundings and by the strong emphasis placed on trust, freedom and respect for the natural world. “I would highly recommend Erasmus+ to anyone, it is a unique experience which opens your eyes to new perspectives and cultures”, said Dylan Cooney, a Stage 1 Childcare student from Kiltormer.
Meanwhile, Healthcare students visited a dementia care unit, where they spent the day engaging with residents and staff. The visit offered invaluable insight into Finland’s person centred approach to elderly care. Learners had the opportunity to assist residents with daily activities, while also focusing on emotional connection and dignity in care. Throughout the day there was music, laughter and even dancing, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that highlighted the importance of social interaction in healthcare settings.
One of the students on the trip, Joana Santos from Esker Hills in Ballinasloe, said: “My experience in Finland helped me deepen my understanding of the importance of person-centred care in a nursing home setting… My perspective has changed. I realized that (person-centred care) can truly be achieved when the focus is on people rather than productivity or profit.”
The success of the Finland mobility has reinforced BCFE’s commitment to international learning opportunities. The college is preparing to welcome its first Erasmus+ healthcare student from Finland, who will spend time both on campus and in a local healthcare placement. The college also hopes to organise additional Erasmus+ trips in the future and are currently exploring future Erasmus eligibility for learners in the Accounting, Legal or Estate Agency stream, as well as Horticulture and Make up courses.
This Erasmus+ trip proved to be a transformative personal journey for all involved, one that will influence students’ careers, perspectives and ambitions for years to come. It was made possible through funding and support from Leargas, Ireland’s national agency for managing international and national exchange programmes in education, training and youth.
To see what courses are currently available at BCFE, visit www. fetchcourses.ie You can also contact Ballinasloe College Centre Manager, Bernie, on (087) 763 6260 for more information
