Leaving Certificate students in Donegal have been reminded they should consider further education and training (FET) courses, apprenticeships and trainseeships closer to home.
SOLAS, the state agency that oversees further education and training, also emphasised that many exciting programmes are being delivered through the Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB).
The call came as the CAO change-of-mind deadline approaches on the 1st of July.
Donegal ETB is delivering a broad local offering of FET courses and apprenticeships, and driving change in the sector.
Many FET courses and apprenticeship programmes delivered by Donegal ETB offer flexible, vocational learning that can include practical skills training and work experience.
According to SOLAS, the many and varied choices on offer through Donegal ETB can help Leaving Cert students in Donegal reach an informed decision on what career they want, while studying closing to home, or support them on a pathway into higher education with apprenticeships also enabling them to learn and earn.
FET courses offered in Donegal include Software Developer, Engineering Operations, International Trade with Business Traineeship, Data Science Traineeship, Communication Systems Installation, Construction Technology, Beauty Therapist, Animal Care, among other choices, at levels five and six on the National Framework of Qualifications.
Commenting on the FET and apprenticeship options available through Donegal ETB, Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, said: “There’s a broad range of FET options delivered through Donegal ETB, designed to help people looking to take the next step after completing their Leaving Certificate.
“Our research shows that many of these options, including apprenticeships and traineeships, can prepare learners for in-demand occupations that are emerging and expanding or that recruiters are struggling to fill.”
Dr. Fiona Maloney, Director of Further Education and Training at ETBI, said: “The variety of post leaving cert courses, apprenticeships and traineeships that are now available for Leaving Cert students in Donegal to explore on the CAO website is a real step forward.
“The range is right up-to-date with engaging and stimulating choices that will appeal to people.
“Meanwhile, many of the options give people the opportunity to stay close to home, with many allowing you to earn while you learn.”
Ciaran O’Brien, Director of Further Education and Training at Donegal ETB, said: “Donegal Education and Training Board provides valuable pathways for Leaving Certificate students to reach their potential, whether they wish to explore a particular subject, use it as a stepping-stone to third-level education, or take the direct route into employment.
“There is a broad range of options available locally through Donegal ETB across both FET courses and apprenticeships, with an emphasis on vocational skills, preparing many learners for direct entry into in-demand occupations.”
Leaving Certificate students can explore the FET courses and apprenticeship programmes on offer through Donegal ETB via the CAO website at CAO.ie/options.
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