Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD has today (Tuesday) congratulated students receiving their first round CAO offers.
Minister Harris said: “Congratulations to all the students who have received their Round 1 CAO offers today. This is a major milestone for many students who are now embarking on the next stage in their educational journey.
“This has been an incredibly challenging year for students, and I’m glad to say that more than 4,600 additional places have been created in higher education for them. I hope that these places will help alleviate some of the pressure on those who wish to progress into higher education, and I want to thank the Higher Education Authority and the higher education institutions for working with me and my Department to provide them.
“I also want to take this opportunity to remind students that there are so many different pathways available as you prepare to take the next steps in your life. Education is a lifelong journey and there is a huge range of options for you to develop knowledge and skills, and achieve your full potential.
“PLC courses and apprenticeships are just some of the options available, and I really want to encourage students to take some time to consider the pathway that suits you. Take a minute, breathe and look around. There is far more out there for you than you think, and it’s important to remember that there are other ways to achieve your goals – more than 11,000 people got CAO offers this year through alternate entry routes like further education. Look at www.fetchcourses.ie and see what interests you.
“We have something for everyone, no matter your age, part time or full time, one year or four year course, and we’re looking forward to meeting you.”
ENDS
Notes to the Editor
The Leaving Certificate candidate helpline, which is provided by the National Parents Council Post-Primary has been operating from 11am on Friday 3 September and is staffed by qualified guidance counsellors. The helpline can be contacted on 1800 265 165.
The State Examinations Commission Candidate helpline is available for queries relating to the Candidate Self Service Portal and the services provided through the portal. The helpline can be contacted at 1800 111135 or 1800 111136 from 9 am to 5 pm from 3 September to 13 September. Outside of these hours queries may be e-mailed to candidateportal@examinations.ie.A range of wellbeing resources developed by the National Educational Psychological Service is also available at www.gov.ie/leavingcertificate.
Further information on apprenticeship programmes is available at: http://www.apprenticeship.ie
Information on Further Education courses can be found at: https://www.fetchcourses.ie/
Further information on DARE and HEAR is available at: https://accesscollege.ie/