(Applicants will receive confirmation of actual start date by text)

This course is designed for the parents or guardians of leaving cert students who wish to inform themselves about the wide range of options available upon completion of the leaving cert.

Course Outline:

Week 1: CAO

• What is CAO
• How to complete the application form
• What is the NFQ ladder and how to make use of it
• The offer and Acceptance Stage
• HEAR/DARE applications
• Common mistakes and tips for success

Week 2: PLC

• What are PLC courses
• Reasons to study a PLC
• Using a PLC as a route to 3rd Level
• Benefits of completing a PLC prior to 3rd level study
• Using a PLC as a route to employment
• Benefits of completing a PLC prior to employment
• What's available in the locality
• How to find and apply for a PLC course
• How to apply to CAO using a PLC qualification

Week 3: Apprenticeships/Traineeships

• What is an Apprenticeship?
• Traditional vs New Apprenticeships: What's the difference?
• How apprenticeships differ from further & higher education
• Steps to securing an apprenticeships
• What employers want/finding an employer
• Entry requirements
• Benefits of undertaking an Apprenticeships
• How does an apprenticeship differ from a traineeship?

Week 4: Study Abroad Options/Student Finance

• Reasons to consider studying abroad
• Things to consider if wishing to study abroad
• Study in the UK or Europe - how to find courses, fees, student loans, applying via UCAS, personal statement, offer stage etc
• Student Finance: the cost of going to college, SUSI Grants, Free Fees initiative, Scholarships