Exploring Pathways to Further Education and Employment in Laois and Offaly
For school leavers and adult learners in Laois and Offaly, the opportunities for further education and training have never been more diverse and accessible.
Whether aiming to progress to third-level education, apprenticeships, or direct entry into the workforce, Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) offers a variety of pathways to help along the way. From hands-on practical training to advanced learning opportunities, LOETB provides flexible and practical learning solutions for those looking to further their education and broaden their skills closer to home.
Pathways into Third-Level Education and Employment
LOETB’s extensive range of programmes caters to individuals at different stages of their educational and professional journey. Whether you’re a recent school leaver uncertain about the next step, a mature learner hoping to return to education or already in employment and looking to upskill, there’s a course designed to fit your needs.
For those interested in progressing to third-level education, LOETB provides a wide array of courses through its Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) programmes. These programmes are designed to equip students with both academic and practical skills that prepare them for higher education or employment. Many students complete PLC courses as a stepping stone to access third-level universities. This pathway often helps students who may not have been eligible for direct entry into third-level education through the CAO or who may not be ready to attend immediately after leaving school.
Additionally, LOETB offers a variety of traineeships and apprenticeships, which combine practical, on-the-job training with classroom-based learning. These programmes are highly regarded by employers and provide students with real-world experience and a direct route into employment. These programmes are designed to align with industry needs, ensuring that learners are job-ready upon completion.
In recent years, the resurgence in the popularity of apprenticeships has highlighted their growing appeal as a viable option for learners. These programmes offer an alternative to traditional academic routes, combining hands-on training with classroom-based learning.
The introduction of new Occupational Apprenticeships, which range from Levels 5 to 9, reflects the increasing demand for skilled workers across various sectors. These apprenticeships cover a wide range of industries, including biopharma, finance, hospitality, ICT, insurance, and property services, providing learners with practical skills tailored to meet industry needs.
LOETB Tertiary Programmes: Learning Close to Home
Another appealing aspect of LOETB’s offering is its tertiary programmes, which provide higher education opportunities in partnership with South East Technological University (SETU), Carlow. The initial programmes on offer in Portlaoise Institute are:
Bachelor of Business Studies
Bachelor of Science in Software Development
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
These programmes make third level education more accessible to learners in our region. The option for learners to complete a significant element of their undergraduate studies closer to home provides many benefits including reduced accommodation and travel expenses, greater study/life balance, and a smoother transition to higher education, leading to greater retention and completion rates.
Tertiary education through LOETB offers a more personalised and supportive environment compared to the traditional university setting. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, more direct access to tutors, and support services.
This focus on quality, accessibility, and practicality makes tertiary programmes an excellent choice for individuals who may have hesitated to embark on a traditional university pathway. With the option to study locally, learners can achieve recognised qualifications that open doors to both further study and employment opportunities, all while remaining within their own community.
New Construction, Engineering, and Renewable Pathway to Employment or Apprenticeship
A new and exciting opportunity within LOETB is the Construction, Engineering, and Renewable Pathway to Employment/Apprenticeship. This innovative course is designed for school leavers and anyone interested in pursuing a career in construction, civil engineering, or renewable energy sectors.
The programme is specifically tailored to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the construction and engineering industries. Its flexible design offers several progression routes, allowing students to either enter the workforce directly, pursue an apprenticeship in civil engineering, or continue their studies by enrolling in a Construction Site Management Level 7 degree at TU Dublin. This course provides multiple pathways to success.
The benefits of this programme are far-reaching. Firstly, it provides a hands-on approach to learning, allowing students to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios through employment-based training. This practical experience is invaluable, as it equips learners with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen field. By the time students complete the course, they are not only work-ready but also possess the qualifications necessary to progress in their careers or continue with higher-level studies.
The Construction, Engineering, and Renewable Pathway is a bespoke programme, offering students a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of construction, civil engineering, and renewable energy technologies. What sets this course apart is its integration of industry-relevant qualifications, such as CSCS tickets for Site Dumper and 360° Excavator. These certifications are highly sought after by employers and are essential for those looking to work on construction sites in Ireland and abroad.
Students will also gain practical skills in site surveying—an essential competency for anyone entering the construction industry. Understanding how to measure and map construction sites accurately is a critical aspect of project planning and execution. Additionally, the course includes a series of awareness workshops covering emerging technologies and practices within the renewable energy sector, including Solar PV (Photovoltaic systems) and Domestic Heat Pumps. With increasing emphasis on sustainability in construction, these skills provide a competitive edge for graduates, enabling them to work in traditional construction roles as well as in the growing green energy sector.
In conclusion, the options for further education and training in Laois and Offaly through LOETB are diverse, flexible, and tailored to meet the needs of both learners and employers. Whether students are seeking to continue their studies, embark on an apprenticeship, or enter the workforce, LOETB provides a range of pathways designed to ensure success. Studying locally has never been more accessible for those in Laois and Offaly.