Visit / Invitation (Leaving Cert LCVP): Revision Notes

Visit / Invitation

This element focuses on engaging with local voluntary organisations and community enterprises to develop practical skills while strengthening connections between school and community.

Purpose of the activity

Organising visits and invitations serves multiple educational purposes. The primary aim is to provide students with first-hand insight into how voluntary and community organisations function in practice. This real-world exposure helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

The activity develops essential transferable skills including planning, communication, organisation, and teamwork. These skills are valuable both in academic settings and future career contexts. Additionally, these activities help strengthen the relationship between the school and local community, creating beneficial partnerships for all involved.

Planning a visit to a local community enterprise

Step 1: Choosing the organisation

Select a voluntary or community group that connects meaningfully to LCVP learning objectives. Suitable organisations include:

• Irish Red Cross branches for emergency services insight
• St. Vincent de Paul for understanding poverty support
• Tidy Towns committees for environmental initiatives
• Local youth clubs or community centres for recreational services

The key is choosing organisations that align with course content and offer educational value.

Step 2: Research phase

Thorough preparation enhances the learning experience. Gather essential background information about:

• The organisation's aims and objectives
• Services provided to the community
• Key contact people and their roles

This research helps determine what aspects to focus on during the visit and ensures meaningful engagement with the organisation.

Step 3: Making contact

Assign a student or teacher to make the initial approach via email or phone. When introducing your group, clearly explain:

• Your identity as LCVP students from your specific school
• The educational purpose of the visit for coursework
• Preferred dates and times with flexibility options

A professional approach increases the likelihood of a positive response and establishes credibility for the educational purpose.

Step 4: Preparing for the visit

Careful preparation ensures maximum benefit from the experience. Key preparation tasks include:

• Confirming logistics - date, time, meeting point, and any required permissions
• Arranging transport if needed, including necessary consent forms
• Developing interview questions relevant to LCVP topics (volunteer roles, funding sources, community challenges)
• Assigning student roles such as photographer, note-taker, interviewer, and timekeeper

Step 5: During the visit

Professional conduct and active engagement are essential. Key guidelines include:

• Maintaining punctuality and respectful behaviour
• Following the planned structure while remaining open to learning opportunities
• Collecting informational materials like leaflets or brochures
• Taking photographs for reports (with permission)
• Asking prepared questions and follow-up queries

Active participation maximises the educational value of the experience.

Step 6: After the visit

Proper follow-up demonstrates appreciation and consolidates learning. Essential post-visit activities include:

• Sending thank-you communications to express gratitude
• Compiling findings into group reports, presentations, or classroom displays

This follow-up reinforces positive relationships and helps process the learning experience.

Inviting a speaker to school

Step 1: Selecting appropriate speakers

Choose individuals with direct operational knowledge of the organisation. Suitable speakers include:

• Volunteer coordinators who understand organisational structure
• Long-serving volunteers with extensive practical experience
• Organisation managers who can explain strategic aspects

The speaker should be able to provide meaningful insights into the organisation's work and community impact.

Step 2: Making contact

Make a professional request via email or phone, suggesting specific dates, times, and duration. Clearly explain the format expectations - typically a short presentation followed by question-and-answer session. This clarity helps speakers prepare appropriately.

Step 3: Preparing for the speaker visit

Ensure optimal conditions for the presentation by:

• Arranging a suitable venue (classroom, library, or hall)
• Testing audio-visual equipment if presentations will be shown
• Preparing introductions for the speaker and developing student questions

Proper preparation creates a professional environment that respects the speaker's time.

Step 4: Hosting the speaker

Create a welcoming atmosphere by introducing the group and outlining the session's purpose. During the presentation, take comprehensive notes and ask questions respectfully. Active listening and engagement show appreciation for the speaker's contribution.

Step 5: After the presentation

Express appreciation through public thanks at the session's conclusion and follow-up written communication. Group discussion about learning outcomes helps connect the experience to LCVP course content and consolidate understanding.

Skills developed through these activities

Remember!