Over the last number of years Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE) has embarked on several Erasmus + Mobility Programmes offering students’ the opportunity to complete a work experience mobility programme in Malaga, Spain.

Supported by the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme and managed nationally by Leargas, the initiative enables learners from the region to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields while working in partner organisations abroad.

The Erasmus+ Student Work Experience Mobility Programme has seen participation from students across various disciplines, with placements in industries and sectors such as travel and tourism, digital marketing business, culinary arts, beauty therapy hairdressing, barbering and fashion design. These placements allow students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, gaining invaluable insights and skills relevant to their career aspirations.

Since 2022, over 160 students from DIFE have participated in the Erasmus Programme. In February and March of this year, 25 students participated in the programme and a further 20 will be travelling in May. Several staff accompany the students during the mobility, ensuring learners settle in and are on hand daily to Assist Students.

The Erasmus+ programme has had immense benefits for the students, with the programme providing local and regional learners with the opportunity to travel abroad, improve language skills, improve confidence and self-esteem, become independent, and make new and lasting friendships with fellow students. Learners also get the opportunity to put the skills they have acquired in their course area in DIFE into practice in real-world settings, gaining invaluable insights and skills relevant to their career aspirations.

Davy Mc Donnell, DIFE Principal stated that “DIFE is delighted with the impact of the Erasmus+ programme, which has empowered our students with professional skills and international work experience.” The Erasmus+ programme “provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to broaden their career horizons and develop essential experience in their chosen field.”

Participants have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, citing personal and professional growth, new career perspectives, and meaningful cultural experiences. Many students have also established international connections that may lead to future employment opportunities. Some students were offered employment from their host employers should they wish to return to Malaga.

Student Testimonials

"During my Erasmus mobility placement, I had the incredible opportunity to work at a veterinary clinic in Málaga, located just minutes from the beach. Though small, the clinic operated 24/7, ensuring that either a vet or a nurse was always on duty. The facility was equipped with state-of-the-art technology, unlike anything I had encountered before. This experience not only provided me with invaluable academic and professional learning but also offered a profound personal journey that I will cherish forever” - Kevin Smith Canine Training and Performance Student, 2025.

"My time in Málaga during the Erasmus+ mobility programme was an unforgettable experience that deepened my passion for my career, travel, and different cultures. One of the most significant aspects was how it pushed me far beyond my comfort zone, giving me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. Living and working in a new part of the world opened my eyes to the countless opportunities in my chosen vocational area that is available to me, and I am grateful for the incredible experiences it provided." Ellen Dowdall Hairdressing Student 2025.

"My Erasmus+ experience was not only about mastering new culinary skills, but also about teamwork and collaboration. I quickly learned the importance of communication, coordination, and mutual respect within a team. I formed strong bonds with my classmates, sharing stories, laughter, and reflecting on our days—whether they were good or challenging. Traveling with Erasmus was an incredibly powerful opportunity, allowing me to discover a better version of myself while meeting new people and learning about diverse cultures. The most rewarding aspect of the programme for me was the valuable life lessons I learned, but also the programme allowed me to build confidence and shape my future.". Ciara Johnson Culinary Student 2025.

For more information and to apply for any of the 70+ courses, please see the college website www.dife.ie.