Ballyfermot College of Further Education

Ballyfermot College of Further Education (BCFE) is one of Dublin’s most established providers of Post‑Leaving Certificate (PLC) education. Located in Ballyfermot, Dublin 10, the college is known for its strong creative, media and technology‑focused programmes, offering practical, industry‑aligned training for learners progressing from secondary school or returning to education. BCFE’s PLC courses are designed to build real skills, develop professional portfolios and support progression to higher education or employment.

BCFE has a long reputation for excellence in animation, art and design, film production, media, music, business, social care and healthcare. The college provides a hands‑on learning environment with specialist facilities including recording studios, digital editing suites, animation labs, photography spaces, rehearsal rooms and multimedia production environments. These resources help learners gain confidence and experience using industry‑standard tools and workflows.

PLC courses at BCFE are full‑time, QQI Level 5 or Level 6 programmes. They combine classroom learning with practical assignments, project work, portfolio development and, in many cases, collaboration with external organisations. BCFE’s PLC programmes suit school leavers exploring creative or vocational pathways, adults seeking new skills, and learners preparing for progression to degree‑level study.

PLC Course Areas at BCFE

BCFE offers a wide range of PLC programmes across creative, technical and vocational fields. The following list includes PLC‑only courses, based strictly on the college’s current programme catalogue.

Animation

BCFE is internationally recognised for its animation heritage. Learners develop drawing, digital animation and storytelling skills using industry‑standard software and techniques.

• Animation Drawing Studies
• Classical and Computer Animation

Art, Design & Illustration

These portfolio‑focused programmes help learners build strong foundations in visual communication, mixed media, digital art and illustration. They are ideal for students progressing to creative degrees or seeking entry‑level roles in design.

• Art Portfolio – Art, Design and Mixed Media 24
• Art Portfolio – 3D Digital and Traditional Art and Design 26
• Art Portfolio – Art, Graphics, Printmaking and Visual Communications 28
• Graphic Design 30
• Illustration Techniques and Practices 33
• Illustration 34

Film, Television & Visual Effects

BCFE’s film and media facilities support practical learning in cinematography, editing, factual production and documentary work. These courses prepare learners for entry‑level roles or progression to film and media degrees.

• Cinematography
• Film
• Short Film and Factual Video Production
• Multi‑Camera and Documentary Production

Games

These programmes combine creative design with technical development skills. Learners gain experience in 3D graphics, game engines and interactive media.

• Games Production and 3D Graphics
• Advanced Games Production and Design

Media

BCFE offers a strong suite of media‑focused PLC courses covering broadcasting, journalism, digital content creation and marketing. Students develop practical skills in writing, presenting, production and digital communication.

• Digital Marketing with Generative AI
• Media and Broadcasting
• Journalism and Content Creation
• Photography and Content Creation
• Radio, Podcasting, Production and Presenting

Music & Creative Audio

BCFE is well known for its music and sound programmes. Learners gain experience in performance, production, recording and contemporary music practice.

• Music / Ceol
• Sound Production
• Music Production
• Music Performance
• Contemporary Music Performance

Business, Administration & Law

These PLC courses provide practical business, administration and analytical skills suitable for office environments, entry‑level business roles or progression to business‑related degrees.

• Business and Medical Administration
• Business Analytics and Entrepreneurship
• Introduction to Accountancy and Payroll

Health, Welfare & Education

BCFE offers a strong range of PLC programmes in healthcare, social care and early learning. These courses prepare learners for employment in caring professions or progression to nursing, social care or education degrees.

• Health and Welfare / Sláinte agus Leas
• Preparation for Healthcare
• Community and Social Services
• Early Learning and Care (Childcare) Level 5
• Healthcare / Special Needs Assisting
• Nursing Studies (General, Paediatrics and Midwifery)
• Social Care Studies (Social and Vocational Integration)

Education & Foundation Studies

These programmes support learners returning to education or preparing for university pathways in teaching, arts or social sciences.

• Return to Learning (General Learning)
• Pre‑University Foundation in Social Science and Arts
• Pre‑University Foundation in Teaching

Progression and Career Opportunities

BCFE PLC graduates progress into employment, freelance creative work, apprenticeships, traineeships or higher education. Many learners continue to universities and institutes of technology through established progression routes. BCFE’s emphasis on practical skills, portfolio development and industry‑standard facilities helps students build confidence and prepare for real‑world expectations.

Why Choose BCFE for PLC Study?

• Strong reputation in creative and media disciplines
• Industry‑standard facilities and equipment
• Practical, project‑based learning
• Clear progression routes to higher education
• Supportive learning environment for school leavers and adults
• Wide range of creative, technical and vocational PLC options