OCN joined learners, tutors, and lecturers at Ulster University’s York Street campus to celebrate the achievements of learners from Supporting Communities who recently completed their OCN endorsed course in Community Development.
From the recent learning cohort, five individuals have secured places on Ulster University's BSc (Hons) Community Development degree, marking the next step in their educational journey.
The celebration event featured an inspiring talk from former learner Christine Farmer, who studied the OCN Level 1, 2 and 3 endorsed courses in Community Development before progressing to Ulster University and graduating this year with a 1st class honours Community Development degree.
Having left school at 16 after a difficult experience in education, Christine spoke openly about her journey as an adult learner and how university was something she never imagined would be possible for her.
Through community education, Christine rebuilt her confidence and belief in her own abilities. By taking part in local learning opportunities, she discovered accessible pathways back into education and gained the confidence to take the next step towards achieving her goals.
Christine reflected on her experience studying OCN endorsed courses and her passion for encouraging others to return to learning. Today, Christine continues to make a positive contribution within her community through volunteering, speaking at events and championing the value of community and adult learning.
Christine said: "It's important to celebrate every achievement, no matter how big or small. Recognising and celebrating progress can empower individuals and communities. It builds confidence, and inspires people to believe in their ability to create positive change in their own lives and in the lives of others. Education gives you the keys to open doors to new opportunities and dreams that you felt were once out of reach and impossible."
Supporting Communities has been an OCN NI Recognised Centre for 19 years. Working across Northern Ireland, the organisation connects individuals with learning opportunities that support personal development, build confidence and create pathways to further study, employment and community involvement.
Following the completion of their OCN endorsed courses, many learners will progress to further and higher education, while others move into employment or take voluntary roles within the community and voluntary sector.
At the heart of qualification delivery is Karla Turner, Training and Development Lead at Supporting Communities. Karla said:
"Over the last 10 years, I've had the privilege of supporting learners through their Community Development qualifications, and seeing people grow in confidence and achieve their goals is still the most rewarding part of my role. Every learner starts from a different place, and it's a privilege to support them on that journey.
Our first OCN Learners Celebration Event for Community Development learners gave us the opportunity to bring together learners from our OCN Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Community Development courses and recognise all of the hard work, commitment and achievements behind gaining their qualifications. The event celebrated learners at different stages of their journey - from those taking their first step back into learning to those progressing on to higher education.
We were delighted to see five of our OCN Level 3 Community Development learners from Annadale and Haywood Residents Association secure places on Ulster University's Community Development degree programme. Watching learners progress from our Community Development qualifications into higher education is something we are incredibly proud of.
We're fortunate to work alongside fantastic partners. The continued support from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive enables us to provide training opportunities for Housing Community Network members across Northern Ireland, while our partnerships with OCN and Ulster University help create valuable opportunities and progression pathways for learners.
We hope this will be the first of many opportunities to celebrate the achievements of our Community Development learners and the positive impact they go on to make within their communities."
Niamh Patmore, Business Development Executive at OCN NI and account manager for Supporting Communities, said:
"I am delighted to celebrate the achievements of learners at Supporting Communities as they receive their OCN endorsed qualifications and progress to further education, employment and new opportunities. Supporting Communities delivers outstanding work across Northern Ireland, creating accessible pathways into learning and helping individuals realise their full potential. Their impact can be seen in communities across the region, and it is inspiring to witness so many learners taking the next step in their education, careers and personal development.”
