Often a big step to get back on the school bench

Maria Stefanía Stefánsdóttir, a study and careers adviser at Mímir, spoke about the Menntastoðir in The morning programme on Rás 2 The programme, for those aged 18 and over, is designed to open the way to vocational training, the A-levels, or entry into university foundation programmes.. Education foundations have been popular with adults for years, but the course can be credited with up to 50 points towards secondary school qualifications.

Many of those who start their studies at Mími are picking up the thread again, even after a long break from their education. Great emphasis is placed on personal service for students and academic and career guidance, which is provided free of charge. Most of those who enrol in Menntastoðir are aged between 25 and 35, but people of all ages attend the course. They have in common that they have completed little or no further education.

The programme covers core subjects such as Icelandic, mathematics, English, Danish and information technology, with an emphasis on students learning study skills, building their self-confidence and life skills. Students therefore receive a great deal of support with their studies, as it is often a big step to return to school after perhaps a long break from learning. Many of them have even convinced themselves that they are not suited to academic study.

Careers and study advisers are always on hand to help students get back on track with their studies, alongside teachers and other staff. The teachers also have extensive experience of teaching adult learners. Furthermore, great emphasis is placed on collaboration and peer support, and on students creating their own learning communities.

You can choose between two pathways in the Learning Centres: full-time or distance learning. You can also take the Learning Centres with Icelandic language support, which is suitable for those for whom Icelandic is not their mother tongue.

Registration for the Learning Centres is now open. View the course here.

Order Chat with a careers adviser here.

You can listen to the interview with María Stefanía. Available here on the RÚV website.