Ringsend Community Training Workshop was officially opened by Ruairi Quinn TD on the 10th November 1986 at its current site, 28 Fitzwilliam Street Ringsend Dublin 4, the old Regal House Cinema.

Since then, it has successfully provided training and personal development to the local community. Over the years many participants have progressed from training on to further education and employment.

The client target group is male and female, all social groups and races in the age categories of 16 to 21 years and early school leavers under 25 years.

The community workshop provides a safe, supportive environment in which each individual can learn and develop to their full potential, according to their needs and abilities. There is a training allowance provided, which varies with the age of the trainees.

The courses currently available are as follows:

Computer Equal Skills/ ECDL
Trainees are introduced to basic computer skills, and use Equal Skills as a stepping-stone to further computer training. On completion of the computer training programme trainees will be able to use and understand Computer Basics, the internet, email, etc.

Catering Skills
Theory and practical work in the areas of food preparation, food service and hygiene. The food prepared by the trainees under supervision of the catering instructor is meeting local needs, the local créche and senior citizens home are catered for. This course provides FETAC certification.

Numeracy/Literacy
The Centre provides a safe environment for young people who wish to return to education. Young people who may wish to avail of and sit for the Junior and Leaving Certification are catered for.

Office Procedures
Introduction of computers, Keyboard skills, Computer applications, Word Processing, Spreadsheets and Database, Reception and Telephone skills, Basic Account Procedures and Calculation Skills, Written business communication skills. This course provides FETAC certification and gives trainees a good grounding in office procedures

Counselling Service
There is a free Counselling Service available to Trainees on Wednesdays 9.30am to 12.30pm. This service provides a safe environment to trainees who may have lost trust or are experiencing difficulties around the system, significant others and their environment.

The Centre continues to be in touch with the local community’s needs for social, educational and employment skills, providing an ongoing, continuously evolving proactive and flexible response.

Pictured above are catering trainees Celine Weafer and Annie Mongan with instructor Fergal Corr. Celeste Larkin and Jessica Blake are in the background.