For Leaving Cert students who didn’t get the points they wanted, digging out that old uniform and returning to school is a choice made by many. However, repeating isn’t the only option. A one-year Post Leaving Cert (PLC) course can provide an alternative route to third level for those who don’t want to face the Leaving Cert again.

FETAC Level 5 courses take place in community colleges across the country and range from nursing studies to multimedia. Depending on the number of distinctions achieved, students can use their results to qualify for a Level 7 or 8 course.

Martin Farrelly from Laragh, Co Cavan, achieved 400 points in the Leaving Cert last year, including an A2 in biology and a B2 in agricultural science. Though his results were impressive, he didn’t have enough points for Agricultural Science in UCD, with students needing at least 455 to qualify. This has since risen to 465.

“I was set on UCD but wasn’t sure if I’d get the points. During the year of my Leaving Cert I found out there was a pathway through Cavan Institute, and I applied in April just in case.”

He opted for a one-year course in science and laboratory techniques, which includes modules in chemistry, physics and microbiology. Students are assessed on a continuous basis.

“I only studied biology and agriculture for my Leaving Cert, so it’s great to have a foundation in other science subjects,” says Martin.

“I had 19 hours per week, so it wasn’t like school. It was a good way to prepare for college life.”

Martin, who is from a dairy farm, also did a period of work experience with Glanbia in Virginia, and travelled to the University of Tartu in Estonia to visit their science department.

He was named Cavan Institute’s student of the year, achieving 10 distinctions (five were needed) and earning a place in UCD’s Agricultural Science course this year. He hopes to become an agricultural inspector or a teacher.

Martin attributes his success to being focused on his goal of getting into UCD.

“I needed distinctions and I put a lot of effort in to the course,” he says.

“I think I’ve come on a lot during the year, as I would have been very quiet before. Some of my modules in Cavan related to communication and I had to make presentation in front of people. It helped build my confidence,” he adds.

Though Martin had an aim, he would recommend anyone who is unsure of what they want after school to take a PLC course.

“It is great for people to explore their options, especially if they don’t want to commit to a four-year degree after the Leaving Cert. You can explore the sector you’re interested in and ask, is this what I want to do?

“I loved my year – I met people I will be friends with for life. I would recommend it to anyone. If anything, you’ll be at an advantage when you go to college.” www.cavaninstitute.ie

PLC courses

• PLC courses are taught in community colleges and schools across the country, with most delivered by the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) (formerly VECs).

• You need to apply directly to the college or school. An interview will take place before an offer is made.

• A PLC course can provide a route into college, depending on results required for entry. For example, to qualify for Agricultural Science in UCD, students need a minimum of distinctions in five modules.

• FETAC is the awarding body, with a Level 5 qualification awarded to students who successfully complete a course. Some courses offer Level 6 accreditation.

• Courses usually last one year.

• Students need to have completed the Leaving Cert to be eligible.

• PLC students are entitled to receive the maintenance grant.

• Anyone who enrols on an approved PLC course is required to pay a fee of €200, except 1) full medical card holders, 2) those in receipt of the student grant, 3) students in receipt of the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) or Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) allowances.

Visit your local community college for more information.