02 February

Love is in the air

February is the perfect month to celebrate all kinds of love. Every kind of love matters, and every heart has a story. Whether it’s a crush, a close friendship, family ties, or learning to love yourself, each day offers a chance to reach out, connect, and build stronger relationships with others and with yourself.

This month, we also look at ‘Information that You Can Trust’, how to fact-check information online and Apprenticeships.

Relationship Quiz!

Everyone deserves to have a happy and trusting relationship. Take this relationship quiz from ToIntoYou to see if yours is healthy!

Okay, hearts & feelings sorted, here’s what to watch out for in Feb!

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is the recognised way people train in a craft trade or profession. As an apprentice you earn as you learn. 

Craft Apprenticeships:

The main craft trades are coordinated and managed by SOLAS along with the Department of Education and Science, employers and unions. You can train to become a plasterer or electrician etc. While you are training, you work with an employer learning the necessary skills and receive a wage. Most apprenticeships last 4 years.

Professional Apprenticeships:

NFQ Level 5 to 9 is offered through the individual industries in areas as diverse as; financial services, accounting, medical devices, software development etc. Professional bodies such as Accounting Technicians of Ireland/ Insurance Practitioners of Ireland have programmes to link you to the employers and relevant academic institutes. More info…

How to fact check information online.

Safer Internet Day is in February! Part of this is being aware of fake news/info.  Here are some tips to help you become a smarter more responsible digital citizen!

• Ask “Who Said It?”: Check if the source is trustworthy, look for experts, credible news outlets, or official websites.
• Look Beyond the Headline: Read the full article or post before believing or sharing it. Headlines can be misleading!
• Check the Date: Make sure the info isn’t old or recycled to fit a new situation.
• Compare with Other Sources: If it’s true, other reliable websites or news outlets will usually report it too.
• Use Fact-Checking Tools: Websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or even Google can help you verify if something is true.
• Watch Out for Emotional Language: If something makes you feel really angry or shocked, double-check it, emotions can be used to manipulate.
• Reverse Image Search: If an image looks suspicious, use Google Image Search to see where else it appears and if it’s real.

Discover Europe’s digital cultural heritage

Search, save and share art, books, films and music from thousands of cultural institutions. The Europeana website provides access to Europe’s digital cultural heritage.  Have you ever walked down O’Connell Street in Dublin and wondered who the statues are of?  There is a ‘Discover Dublin’s Statues’ guide.

Check out Herstory.ie:

a storytelling movement that celebrates the female roles models, ancient, modern and mythic. 

Create a “Valentine Vibe” Playlist

BUT only pick songs that make you smile!

Youth Information Services provide information on a wide variety of issues and topics, in a way that is accessible and non-judgemental. They will give you time and a safe space to come, talk or get support. There is also an Online Chat Service available. The service is primarily for young people aged 16 – 25 years.