The sight of the dreaded brown envelope bearing the stark white paper of Leaving Cert results has traditionally been a pivotal moment for generations of adults, feeling like the absolute determinant of their life path. However, times are changing. In line with this progression, Leaving Cert results are now accessible online, and there has been a marked shift in recognising that a single series of exams should not be the sole determinant of future educational paths.
Consequently, an increase in opportunities to pursue education beyond the CAO points competition is being seen. One of the initial options is the post-Leaving Cert course, or PLC as it’s casually known. These abbreviated courses, typically of one or two years, give students a preliminary impression of a potential degree field. In Ireland, there is a diverse variety of almost 2,000 PLC courses, from science to beauty therapy, tourism, and engineering.
Donnchadh O’Mahony, a school career adviser at Loreto College, Stephen’s Green, and popular figure on social media, remarked that while PLCs are a brilliant choice for students, they can be in considerable demand. He suggested two primary motives for choosing a PLC: firstly, to reapply to the CAO, or secondly, to secure a qualification for direct entry into the workforce.
According to Mr O’Mahony, undertaking a PLC also delivers added benefits such as geographical availability across the nation and no associated fees. He mentioned, “You can secure the maintenance component of the Susi grant during the PLC, and this doesn’t impact you if you progress to university for the next four years.”
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Recent statistics showed that a Leaving Cert student with a score of 300 possessed only a 50% likelihood of college completion. However, should they undertake a Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) course as well, the likelihood rose dramatically to 75%.
Despite this, it must be noted that entrance into these popular courses tends to be challenging as they fill up rapidly on a “first-come, first-served” basis. It is generally less competitive to secure a spot outside of Dublin.
Recently, tertiary degree schemes have emerged as another pathway for students. These degrees are initiated physically in an Education and Training Board (ETB) college and concluded in a Technological University. As Mr O’Mahony explains, students are guaranteed to progress into third-level to conclude their level 7 or level 8, unlike PLCs that do not guarantee a spot on a course via the CAO.
According to Mr O’Mahony, while the PLC segment of tertiary degrees is fee-free, regular third-level fees apply for the years spent in a Technological University. However, those eligible for the Susi grant can use it while pursuing a tertiary degree course. This approach is less expensive and has fewer entry requisites, he stated.
Regarding apprenticeships as a potential route after high school, Mr O’Mahony pointed out that the scenario has significantly improved over time. Earlier, traditional apprenticeships, such as plastering, plumbing and roofing were predominantly available. However, more options have opened up, including engineering, finance, auctioneering, and estate agency. Hence, theres a suitable option for everyone, he stated.
Apprenticeships, often informally termed “earn as you learn” schemes, offer a blend of practical work experience and theoretical classroom-based studies. These programmes typically take two to four years to complete, and successful apprentices receive a certified qualification at level 5 or higher on the NFQ framework.
Instead of students paying for their college tuition, they are essentially paid by their college to pursue this course whilst acquiring their necessary qualifications. The remuneration can range broadly, starting from around €20,000 to €30,000, with your employer determining the exact amount. The apprentice has to secure an employer for the duration of their apprenticeship, with a record of employers seeking apprentices available on apprentice.ie.
Parallel to apprenticeships are traineeships, explained Mr O’Mahony, which closely resemble apprenticeships, except their duration is significantly shorter, usually 18 months. These programmes too encourage a hands-on approach to learning. Traineeships help individuals enhance their technical skills related to a specific job and develop adaptable skills useful across several fields. The traineeship programmes are designed to fulfil industry skills and requirements, ensuring trainees complete their programme well-prepared to step into their professional life.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are quite vocational in nature, making them appropriate for those clear about their career trajectory. They also help identify one’s optimal learning method. Unlike many university degrees which are largely theoretical and require exams, essays and group projects, apprenticeships and traineeships follow a more practical method implementing a “learn through doing” approach.
Deciding if university life suits you or if you would thrive better in a hands-on job learning setting is vital, states Mr. O’Mahony. He recalls a student acing their Leaving Cert with 500 points, opting to study commerce, only to realise by the end of the first year it wasn’t the right fit. The student then joined an accountancy apprenticeship and has since thrived.
Besides these, there are also global opportunities available. Many from Ireland choose to attend university in Europe and the UK as these destinations often have more accessible entry requirements.
Mr O’Mahoney indicated that Ireland’s scholars have traditionally favoured studying in England, Scotland, and Wales. However, their appeal has seen a downturn following the outbreak of Covid. To pursue education in the UK, Irish learners are required to apply via the UCAS application system.
In situations where these choices are not enticing or appropriate for hopeful students, Mr O’Mahoney highlighted the existence of a scheme known as UCD Open Learning. This platform enables individuals to register as part-time students and thus adopt the status of being a UCD scholar. There are no significant prerequisites for entrance, affirmed Mr O’Mahoney who also pointed out that students who achieve satisfactory grades can eventually become full-time UCD students.