Further education (FE) courses could provide the best option for you, writes Janet Stafford
You will have received your results by now and may be trying to work out the implications. The important thing is not to panic.
Offers have not been made yet so we're still at the guessing stage. You should realise that, whatever the outcome of your exam results, you have some very positive choices. Some of these may lead you to a course in a Further Education (FE) college.
"There are over 300 courses in the City of Dublin VEC colleges," says Jacinta Stewart, CEO of the City of Dublin Vocational Committee (CDVEC).
"It is hugely important that you look at an area you like and at the talents you have in addition to your academic talents. "
There are still places on FE courses all over the country and, even if you haven't applied, or thought of applying to one, you can do so now by contacting your local VEC or FE college.
The CDVEC has set up a dedicated advice centre at 1 Parnell Square, opposite the Gate Theatre. It is open from today.
You may think of looking at the option of an FE course because you know that the courses you chose on your CAO form are not really what you want to study for the next three or four years, or you may choose to investigate the option as you feel that your results may mean that you won't attain your first CAO choice.
An FE course will enable you to complete a one or two-year qualification that will give you the skills to enter an area of employment that interests you.
Alternatively, it will let you progress to degree-level study and masters or PhD, through the higher education links scheme and the National Qualification Authority of Ireland's ladder of progression.
"All universities and institutes of technology in Ireland have places designated for successful FETAC graduates," says Catherine Fox, head of School of Services, Leisure and Tourism at Cavan Institute. "There are an increasing number of options. For instance, students who successfully complete our one-year FETAC course in culture and heritage can apply to the general arts degree in NUI Maynooth."
FE courses can be a useful alternative for access to popular areas where the points are high. If you sign up for two years of the sports therapy course at Cavan Institute you can progress to the third year of the rehabilitation studies degree course in the University of Wolverhampton and the following year apply to do your masters in physiotherapy in the UK.
"It can be a back door to getting a qualification that you want in a popular area," says Catherine Fox. "Students often find that FE supports them in their study because it involves continuous assessment rather than everything depending on one final set of exams."
There are no fees for FE courses. You can apply for a means-tested maintenance grant.
In most instances, you require a pass Leaving Certificate to get onto an FE course, although for mature students or for particular courses there may be exceptions.
"In some courses, such as DJing, or sound recording artist courses, we would take into consideration other aptitudes," says Ray Tedders, head of further education in Bray Institute of FE.
Many students find an FE college gives them more freedom and independence than at school and yet it doesn't feel as intimidating as a large university.
"Above all,make sure you choose to study something that you want to study," advises Jacinta Stewart. "I can go along to Ballyfermot College any school night at 9pm and there will be media students still there, working away and enjoying their course. They will do well."
www.cdvec.ie or ring the dedicated helpline on 1800 20 40 80.