Pre University Teaching Course Level 5
Education and Teaching / Ballyfermot College - BCFE / Dublin
Securing a place in a university teaching or arts programme can be highly competitive. For Leaving Cert students who miss out on their required CAO points, or adult learners returning to education, alternative pathways are available. One of these pathways is the Pre-University Foundation in Teaching offered at the City of Dublin FET College, Ballyfermot Campus. This course provides a clear example of how a PLC route can bridge the gap between secondary education and a university degree.
Developing an Academic Foundation
This one-year programme results in a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Education and Training. Rather than moving directly into a large university setting, students spend a year developing core academic skills.
The curriculum covers subjects relevant to education and social care, including Psychology, Social Studies, and Interpersonal Behaviour. Furthermore, students complete modules in Research and Study Skills. These specific modules are highly useful for managing the academic writing and critical thinking demands of higher education.
The Role of Work Experience
Theoretical knowledge is only one part of educator training. Therefore, this course incorporates a mandatory two-week work placement.
Students generally complete this requirement by working as a classroom assistant or an assistant trainer. This practical element allows learners to observe educational environments firsthand. Ultimately, it helps students verify if a career in teaching or training aligns with their skills and interests before they commit to a longer degree programme.
Navigating University Progression
The primary function of a Pre-University course is to facilitate progression. Upon graduation, students can use their QQI Level 5 results to apply for Level 7 and 8 degrees via the CAO.
Graduates from the Ballyfermot Campus programme frequently progress to Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences degrees. Recognised progression institutions include Maynooth University, DCU, UCD, and Trinity College. Additionally, students on this course benefit from shared academic supports with Maynooth University, which further aids the transition to third-level education.
- Course Type : QQI Level 5
- Duration : 1 year