Post Leaving Certificate Courses

There are a variety of Post Leaving Certificate Courses for young people and also for adults returning to education.

The Post Leaving Certificate Programme is a full-time programme for young people who have completed their Leaving Certificate and also for adults returning to education. These courses are usually provided by local Education and Training Boards (ETBS) in vocational schools with some provision in voluntary, secondary and community and comprehensive schools.

What is the award obtained at the end of the course?

PLC Courses are generally awarded at FETAC (QQI) Level 5 or Level 6.

What is the duration of a PLC Course?

The courses are full time and last for one to two years.

What do the courses consist of?

These courses offer a mixture of practical work, academic work, along with work experience. The courses are designed as a step towards paid skilled employment. These courses focus on technical knowledge, core skills and work experience. A wide range of courses and topics are covered which include some of the following:

  • Business
  • Electronics
  • Engineering
  • Computing
  • Childcare
  • Hairdressing
  • Beauty
  • Catering
  • Sport & Leisure
  • Tourism
  • Hospitality
  • Theatre & Stage
  • Equestrian Studies
  • Journalism
  • Marketing
  • Community Care
  • Applied Sciences
  • Horticulture

Eligibility

In order to take part in a PLC Course you should have finished your secondary education and have taken your Leaving Certificate Examinations in order to be eligible.

Rates

A participant contribution of €200 must be paid. You do not have to pay this fee if:

  • You have a full medical card.
  • You are a dependant child of a medical card holder.
  • You are eligible for a student grant.
  • You are in receipt of Back to Education Allowance or VTOS Allowance.

How to Apply

For further information on PLC Courses visit http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/education/vocational_education_and_training/post_leaving_certificate_courses.html or visit the national learners’ database www.qualifax.ie for a full list of training courses available.