Find your local Further Education and Training (FET) course

You don't have to go far to go further

Thinking about what you’ll do after your Leaving Certificate? Further Education and Training (FET) could be your next step. Available in every county through your local Education and Training Board (ETB). There are so many exiciting options for you.

Typically ranging from 1 to 2 years, Post-Leaving Cert Courses (PLCs) are full-time programmes leading to an award on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) at Levels 5 and 6.

Courses available in every county

With courses available through your local ETB, you don’t have to move away from home or travel long distances to continue your education after school.

Contact your local ETB or search online via fetchcourses.ie to find FET courses on offer near you.

Contact your local ETB

Why Choose FET

No matter what stage you are at in navigating what’s next after the Leaving Certificate, FET can take you where you want to go.

FET offers a flexible and practical pathway that is available outside of the points system and can help you to find the right next step after school.

Explore FET courses

A route to Higher Education

Time to explore your options

Preparation for employment

Upon successful completion, PLC can offer progression pathways to universities, preparing you to apply for a degree.

I was more confident than compared to when I was when going into my first PLC because I believed in my abilities." 

- Daithi, St. Conleth's Community College, Dublin Graduate.

Whether you want to try out a field before applying to a degree, expand your knowledge in an area of interest or take time to figure out your next steps, FET gives you the time and flexibility to explore different career paths without having to commit to applying to a four- year degree.

“All my friends went straight to college, and there was a moment where I worried that I was being left behind. Everyone else was getting their accommodation, books and lectures, and I was heading abroad. But I know now that I made the right decision for me, as some of my friends aren’t sure if they picked the right course.”

- Cerra, Kerry College, Killorglin FET Graduate.

FET provides real-world skills to prepare you for the workplace. Many courses include work placements and hands on training, helping you build the experience and confidence needed for your career.

"The course gave me hands-on experience with the machines, and my tutors provided me with valuable knowledge and insight into what working in the beauty industry is like."

- Anjaleen, Dunboyne College of Further Education Meath Graduate.

FET Graduate Stories

Megan's story from Youthreach to University

Megan currently studying a degree in Mathematical Sciences degree in TU Dublin, took the FET route when she made the decision to pursue the mathematical career path and returned to education. Completing a FET course gave her the confidence and opportunity to pursue a degree in university.

Read Megan's story

Chris story from the Leaving Certificate to becoming USI President

Chris applied for the Sports and Recreation course in Kerry College of further education as he found it was a brilliant route he could take in order to get into University instead of repeating his leaving Cert.

Chelsea's story from retail to a Law degree

Chelsea completed a PLC course in Office Administration and Reception Skills at Coláiste Íde College of Further Education which led her to discover her passion for learning. She is now in her final year of a Law Degree in DCU.

Read Chelsea's story

Explore FET on CAO.ie/options

You can access information about FET and Apprenticeships, as well as Higher Education options at CAO.ie/options.

Explore information on Apprenticeships at apprenticeship.ie.

Find a course on cao.ie/options