We wanted our students to experience a similar college course in another country and to partake in work experience abroad. We wanted them to broaden their horizons and see how their qualification will open doors for them in other countries. We wanted open their eyes to a wider world, introduce them to a different culture and augment their personal and professional skills. Some of our students had never travelled abroad before. Erasmus+ gives them this opportunity, that they would not have been able to afford themselves. In implementing the project we also want them to have the opportunity to make life long friendships, connections and grow personally and in confidence. WE wanted staff members to be get a chance to see how a VET college looked and operated in another college and to learn by job shadowing and by exchanging professional dialogue with fellow European practioners. We wanted to build and foster partnerships with colleagues in the Netherlands and Spain. We believed that it would also instil more cultural awareness and interest. It was also hoped that the teachers would return with ideas and renewed energy and a positive experience would spark an interest for others to get involved in the Erasmus+
This was our third Erasmus+ project, the first two were very successful so we wanted to give our current Culinary Arts Students a similar experience. As in the past we wanted to give them an extra element to their qualification and work experience. Many of our students would be considered disadvantaged so we wanted to give them the opportunity to complete their work experience abroad. All level 5 and 6 QQI students must complete a work experience module and doing it abroad gives them an added personal and professional experience and this can be transformational and shape attitudes, lives and open minds. We felt that in giving our students this chance it would enhance their future pathways both educational and employment. Culinary Arts is a very popular course choice here in Crumlin College, with excess applications to places year on year, we strive to give these students the best possible experience while they are with us and applying for Erasmus+ only adds to this. Past students have always returned with a positive experience and we continue to apply to give our current and future student intake the best chances and opportunities available. Three staff mobilities were also applied for to allow exchange of ideas and practice.