Ms Nuala Whelan:

Recently we ran a FETAC level 4 course for 18 to 24 year olds in the north Dublin area. We aptitude-tested the participants because it was the only means of selection we had available. Two out of three of the participants scored below average in a very simple words test, while one third scored below the 20th percentile, which is very low, with regard to their ability to undertake a FETAC level 4 course. It is important to recognise the skills base of many of the people presenting to us. It is not FETAC level 5 or 6; it is much lower, perhaps FETAC level 3 with much support. It is very useful to have organisations such as Youthreach becoming involved in upskilling.