Thinking of returning to education? If you did not get the chance to go to college, or would like to learn a new skill, there is no time like the present.
If you are 23 years old or older, you are a mature student. This works in your favour. There are lots of options to choose from…
Not finished your secondary education?
If you did not finish school, a good place to start is your local Education and Training Board. ETBs have adult literacy programmes and courses for early school-leavers. They also offer opportunities to return to study for the Leaving Certificate as well vocational training linked to business and industry.
Most college courses, including PLC courses, require students to have a Leaving Cert. However, some courses make exception for mature students. Check this before deciding you won’t be accepted.
Consider your skills
If you are in your thirties, forties or older, you may be concerned that you’re too long out of education. This can make returning to education seem daunting, but you won’t be alone.
As a mature student, you’ll have a number of skills younger students may lack. These include organisational, communication and negotiating skills. Parents quickly learn these skills! You are also more likely to have knowledge of a wider range of issues too. If your work experience is in a similar or related discipline to your course, you’ll have a distinct advantage here too. Whatever your work background, real world experience is invaluable. Don’t discount this. You have more skills than you know!
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