One option that continues to play a significant role in the Republic’s education system is post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses. Within Co Dublin, courses are provided by City of Dublin Education Training Board (CDETB) and a brand new entity, Dublin College. All Dublin College PLC courses from 2026 entry onwards will be applied for through a single online application system called EduPortal. PLC courses are not an alternative to higher education for many students, but a different route into one that emphasises practical skills, confidence building, and progression. While Dublin College is a new logo within further education, the colleges themselves are well established.

Source: The Irish Times February 03, 2026 15:01 UTC