We’re part of Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB), one of Ireland’s largest education and training providers. We serve over 865,000 people across Fingal, South Dublin, and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, and we’ve brought all our Further Education and Training (FET) services together under one roof to make things simpler and clearer for you.
A Fresh Start, Built on Solid Foundations
Dublin College is new, but we’re not starting from scratch. We’re building on years of successful work delivering quality education and training across our communities. The results from our 2024 academic year show what we’re capable of, and now we’re excited to bring that same commitment to you under the Dublin College name.
We’re Right Where You Need Us
We’ve got 32 locations across Fingal, South County Dublin, and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, so there’s likely a campus near you. Being local matters – it means you can access quality education without travelling too far, and our courses reflect what’s actually needed in your community and by local businesses.
Whatever Your Goals, We Can Help
Whether you’re looking to improve your reading and writing skills, finish your secondary education, upskill for a career change, or start an apprenticeship, we’ve got options for you. Our range of courses means we can support you wherever you are in your journey.
We want to be your go-to choice for further education and training – a place you can trust that’s accessible and genuinely helps both you and your community thrive.
What We’re Here to Do
Our job is to give you the skills, support, and confidence you need to succeed in your career and play a meaningful role in your community. We work closely with local employers and education providers to make sure you have clear pathways forward, whether that’s into a job, further training, or higher education.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Dublin-College-DDLETB-Logo.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-11-10 15:32:292025-11-10 15:36:34Dublin College Is Launched!
DDLETB calls on parents and guardians to participate in Primary Schools Survey 2030 and have their say on the future of primary education
0001 CNS Survey 2
The release of a nationwide survey to all parents of children aged 0-12 by the Department of Education and Youth has been welcomed by Ireland’s Education & Training Boards. The survey found here, aims to assess the appetite amongst parents for multi-denominational, co-educational and Irish-medium education.
Education and Training Boards, the patrons of Community National Schools and Community Colleges across the country, which are state-funded, co-educational, multi-denominational primary and post-primary schools, and the largest provider of education through the medium of Irish, are calling on all parents of children within this cohort, as well as school staff and boards of management to participate in the survey and have their say.
Commenting on the release of the survey, Caitríona Murphy, Chief Executive of DDLETB said, “This is an important opportunity to inform the future educational landscape across Ireland. It’s a chance to ensure our schools, in the future, reflect the diverse society we now live in. We would encourage parents and guardians, school staff, and boards of management to take time to complete the survey, and to access the resources and information provided by the Department.”
“It is important to note, that when a school changes to become, for example, a Community National School under the patronage of their local ETB, lots of the great things that are already in place remain the same”, she continued, “the curriculum, the staff, and extra-curricular activities all remain as they were. The main thing that changes is that the ethos in a Community National School includes all children and their families equally throughout the school day, rather than prioritising any one faith. So instead of taking part in Catholic religion classes only, for example, children learn about different religious and non-religious worldviews, and the religions and beliefs of their classmates. For families who are Catholic, there is still the option for children to make their First Holy Communion or their Confirmation – the only difference is that preparation for the sacraments happens outside of the regular school day.”
Data on Religious Beliefs demonstrates “clear need for more diverse school options”
Figures gathered by ETBI show that, currently, only 156 of the 3089 primary schools nationally are multi-denominational (i.e. 5% of all schools). The vast majority – 95% – fall under the patronage of religious bodies, primarily the Catholic Church. Data from the most recent Census illustrates a mismatch between the religious beliefs of people in Ireland, and the educational options currently on offer. In the 2022 Census, 31% of people in Ireland said they do not identify as Catholic, with over 14% identifying as non-religious and significant increases in other religious beliefs.
Commenting on the data, Nichola Spokes, DDLETB Director of School, with responsibility for the development of DDLETB Community National School said
“The Census data demonstrates a clear need for more diverse primary school options for families in our region. A considerable proportion of our population is not adequately served by the current primary education system, whereby 95% of the schools are primarily run by the Catholic Church and promote a Catholic ethos.”
“Parents should have the opportunity to choose a school that reflects their own values, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. Educational diversity ensures that every family can access an environment that aligns with their principles and supports the holistic development of their children. Expanding school choice is therefore essential to fostering inclusion, equality, and respect for the diverse identities within our community.”
We are delighted to announce that the 25th Festival of Music will take place in the National Concert Hall on 3rd March 2026. This will include performances by students from DDLETB Community Colleges & Gaelcholáistí.
From Pop, Rock, Traditional, Folk to Classical Music the students perform as soloists, in groups, in bands and as part of the DDLETB Choir. It promises to be another fabulous evening of music, showcasing the musical talent of the students in the DDLETB.
The Festival is a great opportunity for the second-level students of the DDLETB to meet and create music together on the stage of the country’s premier music venue. We are immensely proud of the achievement of our students and delighted to support this performance.
This ticketed event is open to all students/learners and staff. Tickets will be available to purchase directly from the National Concert Hall (NCH) in early 2026.
Full details will be made available soon on our website www.ddletb.ie and also our Social Media Channels with the link to NCH.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Festival-Of-Music-Poster-Social-Media-2025.jpg10001000Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-10-15 15:10:232025-10-15 15:10:2325th DDLETB Festival of Music Is Happening In March 2026!
Congratulations to the class of 2025 – you have made it through second level and completed your Leaving Cert, and that in itself is a huge achievement. Well done. Today may feel exciting, overwhelming, or even a little uncertain, but remember this – there are many, many options open to you.
Dublin and Dún Laoghaire ETB (DDLETB) is here to help you take the next step. With an incredible variety of Further Education and Training (FET) courses and apprenticeships, DDLETB supports school leavers, adults, and anyone looking to upskill or change direction.
1. Find a Course: Your Starting Point
DDLETB’s “Find a Course ” tool is brilliant. Just pop in a keyword like Art or Business, or pick Area if you’d rather explore what is local to you. Use the More search options to filter for Full-time, Part-time, Online or Evening courses. It is your one-stop shop to discover what fits your life, location, and learning style. Find a Course here.
2. A Feast of Quality Assured Options
Whatever your interests or background, DDLETB’s offerings are all quality assured. Whether you are looking for hands-on practical training, brand new digital skills, or creative pathways, you will find courses that are both meaningful and recognised on a national and international framework.
3. Flexible Delivery to Fit Your Lifestyle
Courses at DDLETB are delivered in all shapes and sizes – full time, part time, evening, online, and blended learning – so you can tailor study around work, travel, or family commitments.
4. From Business to Engineering and Beyond
Here is just a snapshot of where your path might lead:
Business, Accounting, and Marketing
IT, Cloud Computing, and Engineering
Healthcare and Care Services
Creative and Artistic fields such as Art, Design, Multimedia
Hospitality, Beauty, and Retail
Childcare, Social Care, Sports and Fitness
These courses span QQI Levels 3 to 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications – meaning concrete, nationally recognised awards that can open doors.
5. Centres Across the Region – You’re Covered
DDLETB serves a broad swathe of Dublin, from Balbriggan in the north, across to Dún Laoghaire in the south, Lucan in the west, Tallaght in the southwest, and Blanchardstown in the Northwest.
Colleges of Further Education offering PLC courses and other training courses
Our vibrant Further Education Colleges offer full-time and part-time courses at QQI Levels 5 and 6 in a wide range of subjects. From healthcare to design, business to childcare, and IT to the creative arts, each centre has its own specialisms and welcoming community feel. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated tutors, and strong links with local industries. These centres are also well-connected by public transport, making them accessible to learners throughout Dublin.
Wherever you live, there is a DDLETB centre nearby that can support you in building your future.
Training Centres offering training, apprenticeships and Further Education courses
Our Training Centres offer day courses, evening classes, online and blended options. Courses are certified by QQI and other bodies such as CompTIA and Microsoft. Small class sizes, excellent facilities, and supportive tutors make it a great choice. And don’t forget the many opportunities to learn and work as an apprentice. Check out our three training centres for more information.
Local and accessible – study close to home, with good transport links and friendly campuses.
Diverse delivery – whether you want to study full-time or part-time, online or in person.
Recognised award courses – you will earn valuable QQI or external certs that employers respect and that could lead on to higher education.
Supportive environment – small class sizes, expert tutors, and learner-centred campuses.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Head over to Find a Course here on the DDLETB website and start your search.
Filter by subject, location, and learning mode to find what fits your goals.
Explore centres across the region – from Tallaght and Baldoyle to Loughlinstown, Dundrum, Dún Laoghaire, Stillorgan, Blackrock, and Sallynoggin.
Apply early to secure your spot and open up your future path.
Well done again on finishing your Leaving Cert. It is a big milestone, and whatever your results, you have choices. Whether you are leaning towards business, engineering, creativity, healthcare, or something else entirely – DDLETB has a flexible, local, and respected path waiting for you.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Leaving-Cert-Results-2025.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-08-22 08:15:332025-08-22 10:45:22Exploring DDLETB Courses This Leaving Cert Results Day
Celebrating Success: Priory Youthreach Learners Take the Next Step Toward a Bright Future
Level 4 graduates 2025
Priory Youthreach Level 4 Graduates 2025
Priory Youthreach was extremely proud to present QQI Level 4 awards to our dedicated learners. Each of them is now taking the next step on their journey toward a bright future in both employment and further education. Molly Finnerty is progressing to Inchicore College to study Nursing Studies. Caitlin Hawkins is studying front-line reception at Tallaght Training Centre. Julie Clare O’Brien is beginning an apprenticeship in Hairdressing and has gained employment with Peter Mark. Rebecca O’Sullivan is continuing her education at Rathmines College, where she will study Digital and General Administration. The team are incredibly proud of their achievements and wish them every success in their future endeavours.
Level 3 Learners Shine in Active Youth Challenge with Medals and Trophy Wins!
Priory Youthreach Level 3 Graduates 2025
Left to right Erin O’Rowe, Holly McMahon, Chlo Smit, Ryan Dunne, John Jerard Walker, Fionn Nolan O’Brien, Katie Rafferty, Lara Pujolas and Patrick Martin
We are delighted to celebrate our Level 3 learners, who were awarded medals and a trophy for their outstanding 12-week participation in the Active Youth Challenge. Throughout the programme, learners engaged in a variety of exciting and physically challenging activities, including tag rugby, football, indoor rock climbing, and even bog jumping! Their enthusiasm, teamwork, and commitment were truly inspiring. Well done to all involved — your energy and determination made this challenge a great success!
Gold Award for Dream Space Ambassadors: Empowering 21st-Century Learning at Priory Youthreach
Youthreach Dream Space Ambassadors
Left to right Chloe Smith, teacher Celia Jones and Jayden Skelton
Our learners completed online activities including MakeCode Arcade 101, Python 101, and AI, building essential 21st-century learning skills. Chloe Smith and Jayden Skelton led peer-to-peer teaching across the centre, including downloading and setting up Minecraft Education on all devices for fellow learners. Each year, Dream Space Ambassadors are awarded bronze, silver, gold, or platinum certificates based on their achievements. We are incredibly proud of our learners and their teacher, Celia Jones, for achieving the gold award which was presented to them in Microsoft Dream space and for their ongoing positive impact within the centre.
Priory Youthreach Joins AI History with Guinness World Record at Microsoft’s AI Skills Fest
Priory Youthreach were part of AI history by participating in a nationwide virtual event hosted live from One Microsoft Place as part of Microsoft’s AI Skills Fest! The session explored the world of Artificial Intelligence through hands-on activities, expert insights from Microsoft AI professionals, and set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most users to complete a multi-level AI lesson online in 24 hours!
GWR Holder Youthreach
Gold Tec Ambassadors Award from Choose Tech
Celia Jones and Sandra Bagnall received the Gold Tec Ambassadors’ award from Choose Tec. Supported by Salesforce, the ‘Choose Tech’ programme helps young people (15–20 years old) dive into the exciting world of tech early. It encourages them to pick up new skills, build on what they already know, and discover different career routes — from pre-tech training to apprenticeships in the tech industry.
Priory Youthreach Learners Promote Sustainability on Recycle & Reuse Day
Priory Youthreach learners recently took part in Recycle & Reuse Day to raise awareness about sustainable clothing practices. They swapped clothes, learned about upcycling, and explored ways to reduce textile waste. This event encouraged responsible habits and highlighted the importance of reusing clothes to protect the environment. We’re proud of our learners’ commitment to making a positive impact for a greener future.
Every spring, the Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB) treats Dublin audiences to a magical concert featuring the musical talents of its learners. The 2025 edition took place in the prestigious National Concert Hall on Tuesday 4th March 2025, marking the 24th year of this inspiring festival.
It’s more than just a concert – it’s an evening where community colleges and Gaelcholáistí students stand centre stage. Soloists, choirs, bands and ensembles bring together pop, rock, traditional and classical styles in one uplifting programme. The performance was described as “a resounding success” and “an incredible night of talent, energy, and passion”.
What makes the Festival of Music special is seeing the pride and effort of these young performers shine. It’s a chance for learners to showcase hours of dedication, for teachers to celebrate their students’ hard work, and for the community to enjoy a night filled with memorable performances.
A full recording of this year’s concert is already online, giving everyone a front-row seat to the occasion. Whether you missed the live show or want to relive the highlights, you can enjoy the full concert here on YouTube.
This lively celebration is a wonderful showcase of DDLETB’s ethos – nurturing student talent and bringing communities together through music.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/DDLETB-Festival-Of-Music-On-Youtube.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-07-07 13:03:232025-07-07 13:05:05Festival Of Music: Full Concert Now Online!
The symposium, which took place in Portlaoise on 22nd & 23rd May, facilitated dialogue about leadership and management across ETB schools, saw a keynote from National Parents Council CEO Aine Lynch and had a variety of peer-to-peer workshops, with experienced Principals’ sharing advice with delegates. A vital opportunity to collaborate for our CNS community.
From 22nd to 23rd May 2025, ETBI hosted delegates from Community National Schools, Community Special Schools, and Community Hospital Schools from across the ETB sector for a national Principals’ & Deputy Principals’ Symposium. This professional learning experience afforded principals and deputy principals a unique opportunity to network with colleagues from across the ETB sector. Over two days, delegates shared best practice in leadership and management and heard from various speakers on the themes principals had identified as important to them. The ETBI CNS Principals’ & Deputy Principals’ Symposium 2025 was a valuable opportunity for principals and deputy principals to gather together as a community. Forging links with colleagues within this growing network was highlighted as particularly important.
Pictured at the ETBI Community National Schools, Community Special Schools and Community Hospital Schools Principals’ & Deputy Principals’ Symposium 2025: Dublin & Dun Laoghaire ETB (L-R) Orla Doherty (Deputy Principal Citywest and Saggart CNS), Alan Weston (DP Scoil Chormaic CNS), Deirdre Corcoran (Principal Scoil Chormaic CNS), Tadhg O’Lionaird (Principal Scoil Aoife CNS), Conor McCarthy (Principal Tallaght Community National School), DDLETB Chief Executive Caitríona Murphy, Director of Schools Nichola Spokes and Michael Byrne (Principal Citywest and Saggart CNS)
One of our outstanding past learners, Liam Nugent, recently featured in a segment on RTÉ’s Six One News. While the exact air date for the full interview has not yet been confirmed, RTÉ News shared a short preview of Liam’s inspiring interview on their social media. You can view the preview here: RTE News Preview and on RTE News and DDLETB social media platforms.
Liam’s story is truly one of determination, resilience, and ambition. Instead of following the traditional Leaving Certificate route, Liam chose to complete our Pre-University Science with Animal Anatomy & Physiology course. Through this pathway, he achieved a QQI Level 5 qualification, which enabled him to progress to a Biotechnology degree at DCU.
Liam’s academic journey doesn’t stop there—his ultimate dream is to study Medicine and become a heart surgeon. His story is a shining example of how Further Education (FE) and Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses can open meaningful and exciting pathways for young people, helping them realise dreams that may once have felt out of reach.
We’re particularly proud to note that Liam studied at Greenhills Community College Further Education, where he was a dedicated and exceptional student. His success is also a tribute to the many teachers and staff who supported and encouraged him along the way. Among those supporters was Liam’s own mother, Paula Nugent, a Further Education teacher at Greenhills CC, who teaches History and Early Years Education and has walked this incredible journey with him.
Liam’s achievements are inspirational—not only to current and future learners but to all of us working in education. His story is a powerful reminder of the transformative role that FE/PLC can play in the lives of young people across the country.
We encourage you to share Liam’s story on your social media platforms. His journey will no doubt uplift and motivate others to believe in their potential, regardless of the path they take.
We are incredibly proud of Liam and his determination and courage and we wish him every success in the future.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Greenhills-Student-RTE-News-Feature.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-06-09 07:53:242025-06-09 07:54:42Past Learner Liam Nugent to Feature on RTÉ’s Six One News
DDLETB has publicly declared its support for and adoption of ALTITUDE – the National Charter for Universal Design (UD) in Tertiary Education. The ETB joined today’s national call to action for institutions and agencies to work towards a more universally designed tertiary education system.DDLETB strongly believes that ‘inclusion is everyone’s business’, and that all staff play a role in creating an environment in which the diversity of learners in our community can thrive. Universal design is central to our efforts to make that statement a reality. By adopting the ALTITUDE Charter, we have committed to work collaboratively across the organisation to embed a UD approach more firmly. This will build on the good work we have already achieved in this area.
Commenting on the organisation’s adoption of ALTITUDE, Siobhan Lynch, Director of FET in DDLETB, welcomed this landmark development:
‘DDLETB has been promoting Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as part of inclusion over the past few years. Since 2022, many DDLETB staff have completed the UDL badge and the UDL Beyond the Classroom badge, with support from DDLETB facilitators.
In 2025, DDLETB organised an online workshop titled “Introduction to UDL,” which was open to all staff. The workshop was facilitated by Lisa Padden and Kathryn Orr from UCD and was well attended.
Additionally, many DDLETB staff members have completed various courses on Diversity and Inclusion on LinkedIn Learning.
Universal Design is a significant component of our strategic efforts to continue meeting the needs of our learners. We need everyone to work together in creating an inclusive experience where all can learn, achieve and succeed. Embedding a UD approach can help us achieve this goal.
We fully support this important initiative for the tertiary education sector and will continue to progress the actions outlined in the ALTITUDE Charter in the years ahead.’
Following our adoption of the ALTITUDE Charter and our public support for the national call to action today, DDLETB established a Universal Design/ALTITUDE steering committee and working group utilising the model of committee membership/leadership proposed within the Charter. This standing committee will now collaborate in the years ahead to progress the actions and goals outlined within the Charter.
The learner population in tertiary education is becoming increasingly diverse, and students’ lives are also increasingly complex. The responsibility on educational institutions to provide equitable access for all is now strongly embedded in Irish legislation, and national tertiary education strategies contain more specific goals to implement a Universal Design approach, (SOLAS, 2020; Higher Education Authority, 2022).
The aim is to move towards a system where ‘Inclusion is Everyone’s Business’, where all staff play their part in delivering an inclusive educational experience.
Universal Design, or UD for short, offers us an evidence-based approach to engender this mindset, and is increasingly seen as a central tenet of our response to rising diversity, (Centre for Excellence in Universal Design, 2022). But how can we embed a UD approach in our institutions?
That’s where ALTITUDE – the National Charter for Universal Design in Tertiary Education – comes in to play.
Funded by the HEA under PATH 4, the ALTITUDE Project was an extensive cross sectoral collaboration involving six national agencies, fifteen higher education (HE) institutions and six Education and Training Board (ETB) representatives, nominated by Directors of FET to represent the Further Education and Training sector. The Charter was launched in Spring 2024, alongside an accompanying technical report and implementation toolkit.
The vision of the project looks to a future in tertiary education where ‘all learners are transformatively included through universal design in education’, deriving the name ALTITUDE. It seeks to move us in that direction by supporting HEIs and ETBs to make sustainable progress towards systemically embedding a UD approach…. – one which places human diversity at the heart of tertiary education design, and fosters student success for all learners.
The ALTITUDE Charter, and the associated toolkit and technical report, build on significant existing work on UD in the Irish tertiary education landscape (Kelly & Padden, 2018), and through these outputs, provides a clear roadmap for institutions to make progress.
Drawing from national and international literature, the Charter recommends key strategic enablers, which institutions should put in place over time to support the sustainable implementation of UD, and proposes collaborative action to work towards goals under 4 key pillars of our institutions:
Learning, Teaching & Assessment;
Supports, Services & Social Engagement;
the Physical Environment;
and the Digital Environment
Institutions who adopt it will over time benefit from:
a more unified language of and commitment to a universal design approach in their institution
a greater culture of shared responsibility for UD, access, and inclusion, operationalising the ‘Inclusion is Everyone’s Business’ mindset.
a more effective and learner-centred approach to compliance with national legislation and policy
and most importantly, the iterative development of programmes, services, and environments that enable equitable opportunities for all learners to thrive and be successful.
The cross-sectoral development of the ALTITUDE Charter represents a landmark moment for the tertiary education sector, signalling its intent to place human diversity at the heart of its design and delivery.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DDLETB-AltitUDe-Featured.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-04-14 15:50:512025-04-14 15:52:44DDLETB Shares its Adoption of the ALTITUDE Charter & Joins the National Call to Action on Universal Design
The DDLETB Ethos Ambassador Programme was launched earlier this year. A transformative initiative empowering our students to bring positive change to their schools and communities. This year, 24 schools have joined the programme, with 120 dedicated student Ambassadors stepping up to lead the way.
Through engaging workshops, these young leaders will explore the core values at the heart of their schools, gaining the tools and confidence to actively promote and embody them in daily school life. More than just a learning experience, this initiative is a movement—one that fosters respect, inclusion, integrity, and a deep sense of community.
As they implement their learning, these ambassadors will lead projects, spark important conversations, and inspire their peers, staff, and school communities. Their commitment will help shape a stronger, values-driven environment where every student can thrive.
We look forward to seeing the impact of their work and celebrating their successes throughout the year. Stay tuned for updates as these ambassadors make a real difference!
DDLETB Launch of ETHOS Ambassador Programme students
We extend our thanks to the students and teachers for getting involved in the programme and a huge thank you to our colleagues at Baldoyle Training Centre for welcoming us and supporting the first session.
Caroline Daly, DDLETB Ethos Coordinator.
https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DDLETB-Launch-of-ETHOS-Ambassador-Programme-students-with-logo.jpg757958Jennifer Farleyhttps://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/logo-1-1.pngJennifer Farley2025-04-11 07:54:372025-04-15 08:04:07Exciting Launch of the Ethos Ambassador Programme!
