Pathways and Headstart- the DkIT programmes transforming how disadvantaged communities access higher education
Pathways and Headstart, two community education programmes delivered by Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) in partnership with Louth Local Development’s (LLD) SICAP Social Inclusion Programme were recently recognised for their transformational impact on the local community. DkIT was awarded €1 million in funding following the submission of a case study on Pathways and Headstart, to support and recognise exemplary performance as a result of the impact the programmes have had since their establishment.
The allocation of performance funding awards totalling €5 million to five higher education institutions was announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, T.D., with each institution being awarded €1 million in recognition of their exemplary and significant contributions to the delivery of national priorities.
In response to socio-economic and educational disadvantage highlighted in the 2016 census, DkIT partnered with Louth Local Development to launch the Pathways and Headstart programmes in 2017 and 2018. These community education initiatives aimed to improve access to higher education for underrepresented groups in County Louth, including low-income households, ethnic minorities, refugees, asylum seekers, the long-term unemployed, lone parents, and individuals with disabilities or mental health issues. Pathways offered a 14-week introductory course in local community centres, providing a supportive environment for adults to experience higher education without the pressure of assignments. Headstart, a 10-week follow-up programme delivered on the DkIT campus, focused on building participants' self-confidence and academic skills, such as study techniques, time management, and career guidance. Graduates from these programmes have gone on to pursue degrees in various fields, including Social Care, Nursing, and Creative Media, and many have secured employment opportunities.
The academic co-ordination of the initiative is managed by Johdi Quinn in the Department of Business Studies at DkIT, involving management and faculty, alongside support from cross-institution services. Louth Local Development also utilise their community networks to recruit, support and guide beneficiaries into, through and beyond the programmes, co-ordinated by Christina King the SICAP Youth and Education Co- Ordinator.
The programmes have had a significant impact since they began, and the recent influx of funding was a huge achievement, and one which highlights the positive influence of these initiatives on communities. Since 2017, a total of 325 students have graduated from the programmes. For the individuals taking part, both Pathways and Headstart have literally been life changing.
To date, 19 Pathways programmes have been delivered in community venues (2017–2024), with 203 students graduated. 8 Headstart programmes have been delivered on DkIT campus (2018–2024), with 122 students graduated.
The beneficiaries of the initiative have included people with disabilities, long term unemployed, migrants, one parent and low-income families, people with addiction issues, teenage parents, refugees, Irish Travellers, young people in the care of the State, youth attending Youthreach or similar programmes, student carers, ‘second chance’ mature learners, those in the criminal justice system, and people who are homeless.
Findings from participant feedback illustrated that following successful completion of the programmes, participants felt more comfortable with learning, having broken down many of their barriers to education, and ultimately felt that education was more open to ‘people like them’.
Elizabeth Awosanya, a mother of three, embarked on her educational journey through the Pathways programme before transitioning into Headstart. Now nearing the completion of her degree in Social Care, Elizabeth reflects on her experience.
Elizabeth Awosanya said:
“Pathways helped me build confidence, engage with learning at my own pace, and get a real feel for what higher education might be like in a non-intimidating way. Transitioning into Headstart deepened my readiness for third-level education and mentally and practically prepared me for the challenges of college life.”
Elizabeth's journey illustrates the programmes' ability to provide a solid foundation for those returning to education, fostering both academic readiness and personal growth.
Similarly, Dean Bradley, a 36-year-old father of four from Moneymore, Drogheda, found the Headstart programme to be a pivotal turning point in his life. After battling personal challenges, Dean enrolled in Headstart in 2020, which was delivered entirely online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The support and encouragement he received enabled him to pursue further education:
Dean Bradley mentioned:
“The Headstart Programme gave me direction. The team taught me how to go with it, how to stay with it, and really just about resilience.”
Dean's perseverance led him to complete multiple Level 5 and Level 6 courses, culminating in his current pursuit of a degree in Social Care at DkIT.
Dean advises others considering the programme to:
“Take it day by day and week by week. Don’t look at the years. For me, life has really changed for the better.”
Laure Nzia Djakou, who has just completed her second year studying International Tourism and Management at DkIT, also attests to the transformative impact of the Pathways and Headstart programmes. Having previously struggled to balance third-level education with other life commitments, the mother of three found renewed motivation and support through these programmes.
Laure Nzia Djakou said:
“The programmes were designed for people like me—mature students who needed a bit of encouragement and guidance. The supportive environment and the opportunity to build my confidence were exactly what I needed.”
Laure now envisions a future where she can pursue a Masters degree or contribute to the tourism industry, all while managing her family commitments.
Both the Pathways and Headstart programmes have provided an essential role in facilitating access to higher education for individuals from diverse backgrounds. By offering tailored support, fostering confidence, and providing practical skills, these initiatives empower participants to overcome barriers and achieve their academic and professional aspirations.
Interested in joining the next Headstart course? Classes start on Wednesday 3rd September, 2025 and run every Wednesday for ten weeks. To register your interest, email [email protected] or call 0877462507.
Learn more about the impact of Headstart and Pathways through the case study here.
