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A Post Leaving Cert course could be the perfect option

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By Guidance Counsellor Niamh Dwyer

Recent data from the Central Statistics Office (CAO) reveal that just over half of Leaving Cert students go straight onto a CAO-listed course.

Approximately 56% of school leavers accept a CAO offer and progress directly into courses in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). There are several reasons for this, the most obvious one being the huge variety and a growing awareness of options now available to students upon leaving school. These include over 1,900 Post Leaving Cert (PLC) courses for school leavers and adults offered by over 200 colleges of Further Education (FE) nationwide. In recent years about one in four Leaving Cert candidates has opted to do a PLC and there is a growing number of adults returning to education via the FE route.

Lots of good reasons to choose a PLC

Many Leaving Cert students find it difficult to know what area they want to study in after school. PLCs offer the chance to try an area of interest out and gain work experience before committing to a three or four year degree. It also prepares students very well for progressing onto studying that area in more detail, giving a great foundation for further study. FE colleges are similar in size or a little bigger than secondary school, so getting to grips with independent learning, as well as key skills in communications, IT, referencing and research in that type of supportive environment makes the transition to third level easier. Students who may struggle to get the CAO points required for the course they are interested in should definitely consider applying for a PLC course. There are a quota of college places on lots of CAO courses reserved each year for students who use their QQI FET/FETAC results from PLC courses to apply for CAO courses. In fact, about 20% of CAO applicants each year have completed QQI FET/FETAC awards. PLCs also make good financial sense. There are no fees and students can apply for the SUSI grant if eligible.

Applying to Colleges of Further Education

Applications for PLCs are now open for autumn 2023 for Leaving Cert and Leaving Cert Applied students, adults and mature students. Entry is not based on points and details of entry requirements can be found on FE college websites. It is possible to apply throughout the summer, but some colleges may have earlier deadlines. It is advisable to apply early as popular courses fill quickly. Begin by exploring the full list of options nationwide on www.cao.ie/options and www.fetchcourses.ie. Make sure to use the course search facility on www.careersportal.ie and on www.qualifax.ie to help narrow down the courses that are best suited to interests, skills, aptitudes and career plans. The Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and individual FE college websites also have lots of information about how to apply. For options in Kerry see www.kerrycollege.ie. Completing a PLC course greatly enhances employment opportunities and opens up pathways into Higher Education for those who wish to continue their journey in education.

Niamh Dwyer is a Guidance Counsellor in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore and a member of the Kerry branch of IGC. See www.mycareerplan.ie or follow @mycareerplan on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

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Camera club returns after summer break

Killarney Camera Club will begin its new autumn season with an open night in The Brehon Hotel on September 28. This is the first meeting since the club broke up […]

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Killarney Camera Club will begin its new autumn season with an open night in The Brehon Hotel on September 28.

This is the first meeting since the club broke up for the summer – new members are invited to attend the open meeting later this month .

“Our final competition of the last season was our Open Print competition in June, and 20 unique and enthralling prints were on display in The Brehon on the night. Well done to everyone who put in the time, effort and expense to enter the competition. Thanks also to the many members who were involved in the logistics of bringing the season’s end competition to fruition.,” said club secretary Deirdre O’Donoghue.

“Throughout the year we hold a series of zoom meetings, fortnightly, and also have many in-house presentations of guest speakers , in their respective areas of photographic expertise , as well as occasional photographic outings throughout the club’s calendar year.”

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Kilcummin Comhaltas CCE launches trad music initiative

A new initiative from Kilcummin Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in association with Conor Moriarty sees the branch offer group music classes for those interested in traditional playing. Conor is combining with […]

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A new initiative from Kilcummin Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in association with Conor Moriarty sees the branch offer group music classes for those interested in traditional playing.

Conor is combining with the branch to gather musicians form beginner to advanced to give the ultimate group music experience.

“Its a great chance for newer players to learn from Conor, who himself is a champion musician but also from the other musicians that will attend the group in what undoubtedly will also offer a social outlet to all involved,” said Derek O Leary, PRO of Kilcummin Comhaltas CCE.

Conor has enormous previous experience. He is one of Irelands leading accordion players starting his playing career at the age seven. In 2009, Conor was crowned All-Ireland Champion on Melodeon at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann and followed that up by becoming senior All-Ireland accordion Champion in 2010.

He also completed his MA in Irish traditional music performance at University Limerick that same year. He has worked professionally with many organisations including Siamsa Tire and more recently Gaelic Roots the show. He is also a much sought after music teacher where he has always enjoyed passing on his knowledge to the next generation.

The group sessions start on September 27 for an initial five-week term from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm in Kilcummin Rural Development Office.

For further details contact Conor on 087 9698063

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