There is an increasing awareness of alternative routes to obtaining a third level degree, enabling students to realise their full potential on leaving secondary school.
LOETB Further Education and Training offers alternative pathways including Post Leaving Certificate courses, Tertiary options and Apprenticeships. The development and creation of these alternative pathways offers students the opportunity to pursue third level without the pressure to secure high points in the Leaving Certificate, affording students a more accessible pathway.
Post Leaving Certificate (PLC)
LOETB offers a wide range of Post Leaving Certificate course at QQI Levels 5 and 6. These courses provide learners with the opportunity to access multiple degree options, spanning across many disciplines in third level institutions in Ireland, the UK and Europe.
Progression to third level university courses is possible through specific QQI Level 5 Certificates and Level 6 Advanced Certificates. Under the Higher Education Links Scheme a quota of places is reserved by higher education institutions for QQI applicants, offering direct entry to a range of third level degree courses.
Tertiary Degree Options
Tertiary degree options offer an alternative route outside the CAO points race, allowing students to earn a degree by commencing their studies in a Further Education Centre.
LOETB in partnership with South East Technological University (SETU), Carlow offers degree courses in Business Studies, Software Development and IT Management. Learners commence their course of choice in Portlaoise Institute and after successful completion of first year, they can progress to SETU, Carlow. The benefits of availing of this route include:
• No fees for first year;
• Small class sizes, access to learning supports;
• Bespoke timetable
• Avoiding accommodation costs by remaining at home and less transport costs incurred.
Apprenticeships
There are currently over 75+ apprenticeship programmes from QQI Level 5-10 across a range of industry sectors including accountancy, insurance, farming, construction and hospitality.
Apprenticeship is a recognised means by which people are trained whilst leading to rewarding careers, with learning grounded in the practical experience of undertaking a real job.
The apprenticeship ‘earn and learn’ model offers an alternative route to professional careers and qualifications.
For a full list of all apprenticeships and details on eligibility criteria for each apprenticeship please visit
www.apprenticeship.ie
Further Education and Training offers alternative routes for students to gain a qualification, leading to well-paid job opportunities while also providing students options to progress to third level.
For more information on FET routes, please contact:
LOETB Laois Information Hub
Unit 2, Lyster Square, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
Email: laoisinfohub@loetb.ie
Phone: 057 8630093
LOETB Offaly Information Hub
High Street, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.
Email: offalyinfohub@loetb.ie
Phone: 057 9351506
