Leaving Cert Results Day is sometimes built up to be the most important day of your life – which can make disappointments on the day feel all the more crushing. But if there’s one thing we’ve all learned from the challenges of these past few years, it’s that nothing is set in stone – and there’s no shortage of ways to make your mark on the world.

First of all, it’s crucial to shake off the common misconception that the Leaving Cert-to-university path is the only real road to success. Life is far more interesting than that! Whether you’ve already got your dream job in mind, or are still exploring your options, there are many routes to a fulfilling, exciting and worthwhile career. Pick the right one, and you just might open up a whole new world of opportunities.

In this special feature, we’ve outlined a selection of the wide range of options available to you, including Further Education and Training (FET) courses; online QQI-accredited courses; Apprenticeships; and renowned language schools like Alliance Française.

FET is all about variety – with a broad range of courses that can serve as a fantastic stepping-stone into Higher Education, as well as a great direct entry into seriously in-demand jobs, across a multitude of industries.

As we all know, the structure of a bachelor’s degree programme doesn’t suit everyone. That’s why the flexible, vocational learning – including training in practical skills and work experience – offered on FET Level 5 & 6 courses (also known as Post Leaving Certificate or PLC courses) can be a preferred option for many.

You’ll find a vast array of courses at the likes of Dunboyne College of Further Education, Bray Institute of Further Education (BIFE), Ballyfermot College of Further Education and Liberties College – in areas like healthcare, art, media, tourism, animation, music, business, computing, science and more.

Liberties College. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

Many colleges and courses will hold Open Days and Evenings – which are well worth checking out.

Of course, online learning could also be a great fit for you. The Open College is open year-round, offering over 90 online QQI Certificates and Major Award programmes and undergraduate degree programmes.

For those looking for something even more hands-on, Teagasc offers a truly unique learning experience both inside and outside of the classroom, with courses available across all aspects of the agriculture, horticulture, forestry and equine sectors. Their education and training options are delivered through agriculture and horticulture colleges, Teagasc education centres, and in collaboration with universities and institutes of technology, located all across the country.

And if it’s the practical aspect of education and training that you’re interested in, an Apprenticeship could also be a great fit. Providing on-the-job training and the ability to earn while you learn, opportunities in this area have expanded across remarkably diverse industries – with programmes in BioPharma, Sales, Engineering, Electrical, Finance, Property Services, Hairdressing, Plumbing, Insurance, Healthcare, Carpentry and more!

So have a look at some of the many thrilling options available – and get ready to take the first step on the path to the career of your dreams...

DUNBOYNE COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION

THE OPEN COLLEGE

BRAY INSTITUTE OF FURTHER EDUCATION

BALLYFERMOT COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION

LIBERTIES COLLEGE

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DUBLIN

Read the full Student Special in the new issue of Hot Press – in shops now, and available to order online below: