Lyndsey El Amoud: Expanding Access to Lifelong Learning

6 Mar 2025

Lyndsey El Amoud is committed to making education truly accessible. As Deputy Director of ACE UCC, she develops programmes that support lifelong learning and works on national policy initiatives to break down barriers. Through projects like Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), she ensures that people from all backgrounds can access education. Lyndsey believes that real inclusion goes beyond access—it’s about creating learning environments where everyone feels supported.

In advance of International Women's Day we caught up with Lyndsey to here her perspective on how Ireland can be more inclusive in education at third level. 

Can you tell us about the work you do? 

As Deputy Director of ACE at University College Cork, my role is all about expanding access to lifelong learning and ensuring that education is truly for everyone, at every stage of life. I work on developing innovative programmes, building partnerships, and supporting learners from all walks of life—whether they’re returning to education after many years, upskilling for career progression, or simply pursuing a passion. ACE has a long history of making education accessible, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to opening doors for people who may have thought those opportunities weren’t available to them.

How do you see your work making an impact, locally, nationally, or in your organisation?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is getting to see the transformative impact of lifelong learning at multiple levels. Locally, I get to witness our students and graduates gaining confidence, unlocking new career opportunities, and discovering talents they never knew they had. Then, there is also the impact on local businesses and communities as our graduates apply their learning and practice their new skills in their everyday lives. Nationally, my work with the Higher Education Lifelong Learning Ireland Network (HELLIN) allows me to contribute to shaping lifelong learning policy and practice across Ireland. HELLIN is a collaborative network of higher education institutions committed to promoting and advancing lifelong learning. Through this work, I engage with colleagues across the sector to address challenges, share best practices, and advocate for inclusive and accessible education policies that benefit learners of all backgrounds.

Additionally, I am involved in the HCI National RPL Project, which is focused on expanding and embedding Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) across Irish higher education. Through this project, we are working to ensure that learners - especially those who may not have followed a traditional educational path - can access meaningful opportunities for progression and development, while having their prior learning and experience recognised and valued.

At an international level, my work as a Steering Committee member of eucen (European University Continuing Education Network) and a Research Network Coordinator of the ASEM Lifelong Learning Hub enables me to contribute to discussions on lifelong learning policy and research at a global scale. These platforms connect educators, policymakers, and researchers from Europe, Asia, North America, and Latine America allowing us to exchange ideas and drive forward the agenda of lifelong learning as a key pillar of global social and economic development. Engaging in these networks not only strengthens our work at UCC but also ensures that we are part of a broader conversation about the future of lifelong learning in an evolving world.

What does equality in education and lifelong learning mean to you?

Equality in education means ensuring that everyone - regardless of gender, age, background, or socioeconomic status - has the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their potential. For me, this is about more than just access - it’s about real inclusion. It’s about breaking down barriers, whether they are financial, social, or personal, and ensuring that learning environments are welcoming and supportive for all. In lifelong learning, that means recognising that people come to education with different experiences, challenges, and commitments, and we have to be flexible and innovative in how we support them. It’s not just about opening doors; it’s about making sure people feel welcomed and supported once they step through them. I strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn and grow, no matter where they start from. 

How can we all be better allies in supporting women?

Being an ally means more than just supporting women in theory—it’s about taking real action. That might mean amplifying women’s voices in meetings, advocating for policies that promote work-life balance, or challenging unconscious biases when we see them. It’s also about mentorship and sponsorship - helping women access opportunities, supporting them in their ambitions, and recognising the value they bring to the table. Most importantly, it’s about listening. The best way to support women is to hear their experiences and act on what they need.

Is there a woman who has inspired you in your career or personal journey?

Whenever I’m asked this question, there is only one woman that immediately comes to mind and that is my amazing mother! When she was 14 years old in the early 1970s, my mother left school and immediately went to work. As one of eight children born to working class parents living in a council house in Waterford City, there was no other choice. She then spent the next 50 years working. She never had the opportunity to experience much of formal education, but that certainly did not deter her from believing in the power of education. From as far back as I can remember, my mother taught my siblings and I about the importance of education. One of her many mantras for us growing up was “You can achieve anything if you put your mind to it, you can be anything if you work hard enough and are always open to learning.” Her gift to all three of us was our education because she fervently believed in the transformative power of education to change lives. It’s because of my mother that I am so passionate about helping others to achieve their goals in higher education

What’s one piece of advice you would give to women pursuing their ambitions?

Back yourself! So often, women hesitate to put themselves forward for opportunities, waiting until they feel 100% ready and often putting everyone else in their lives first – spouses, children and other caring responsibilities. The juggle struggle can really take a toll on women and our careers. But the truth is, you don’t have to tick every box to go after something - you just need to be willing to learn and grow along the way. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, take the leap even when it feels scary, and remember that your voice, your perspective, and your contributions are valuable. Believe in your own potential, and don’t be afraid to claim your space and display your expertise in whatever field you’re in! 

Continue Your Learning Journey

If Lyndsey's story has inspired you, ACE at UCC offers a range of part-time courses designed to empower individuals and communities through education. Explore some of our programmes that support equality, leadership, and advocacy:

• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Learn more

• Advocacy & Community Development: Learn more

• Leadership in the Community: Learn more

• Youth & Community Work: Learn more

If you ready to take the next step in your education or career, join us at University College Cork (UCC) on Thursday, 3 April, for an engaging and interactive Spring Forward: Adult Learning & Career Growth Workshop. Whether you’re looking to upskill, explore new learning opportunities, or advance your career, this workshop is designed to help you plan your next steps with confidence.

• Date: Thursday, 3 April 2025

• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Location: Western Gateway Building, UCC

How to Register

Spaces are limited, and registration is required to attend. Secure your place by signing up here: Register Now.

Join us in shaping a future where lifelong learning is accessible to all.

#IWD2025 #WomenOfACE #BreakingBarriers #LifelongLearning