Take a Springboard+ course

"What if the state paid most of the fee for your next qualification?"

Why this is so fun

There is something quietly brilliant about the state essentially bankrolling your next career move. You pick up a Level 8 or 9 qualification in data, healthcare, tech, or whatever actually interests you, without the financial dread that usually comes with going back to study. You will meet people mid-pivot just like you, discover you are sharper than your Leaving Cert ever suggested, and finish with letters after your name that genuinely open doors. Ireland has bet on you — you may as well collect.

Someone who did this

Cian (30), Galway — works in a hardware shop on the Tuam Road, does a bit of amateur astronomy when the clouds let him

I nearly didn't bother applying because I assumed there'd be some catch — like the course would be in Roscommon at seven in the morning or you'd need three references from people who already had the qualification you were trying to get.

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First 3 steps

1Browse springboardcourses.ie this week and filter by your county or online.
2Check your eligibility — employed, unemployed or returning to work all qualify.
3Contact the college admissions office directly to ask about the next intake date.