Grant & Funding Opportunities

Student Grant (SUSI)

This means test student grant is available to students who are progressing to a full-time QQI Level 5/6 Award or equivalent, and who have not previously studied an award at similar or higher level on the National Framework of Qualifications. The amount of the grant depends on family income and on the distance a student travels from their place of residence to the college. Student Grant applications can be made online only to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) through www.susi.ie. Applications can be made from April and should be made before starting a course. Further information is available on www.susi.ie or www.citizensinformation.ie

Back To Education Allowance (BTEA)

The BTEA is an allowance from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) to allow eligible applicants to participate in education while remaining on a Social Welfare payment. Eligible applicants are paid BTEA instead of their Jobseekers or other allowance or benefit – more information is available on www.services.mywelfare.ie

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS)

The VTOS scheme provides a range of courses to meet the education and training needs of unemployed people. Applicants must be aged over 21 years of age and in receipt of Social Welfare payment for at least 156 days before commencement of course. VTOS is aimed in particular at unemployed people who are early school leavers. Successful applicants can receive a VTOS payment for the duration of their course instead of their social welfare payment. They may be able to avail of additional supports including childcare support and small meal and travel allowances. Books and course materials may also be provided.

Back To Education Initiative (BTEI)

BTEI courses are provided to people aged 16+ who have left full-time education and meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Have less than upper second level education (Leaving Certificate)
  • Have a medical card, or are the dependent of a medical card holder
  • Are in receipt of a social welfare payment (e.g. Jobseeker’s Allowance/ Benefit, One Parent Family Payment, Carer’s Allowance, Disability Allowance, etc.)

Post Leaving Certificate (PLC)

PLC Programmes are full-time courses open to students who have just completed the Leaving Certificate, or any person wishing to return to Further Education. They offer a mixture of ‘hands-on’ practical work, academic subjects and work experience, and are designed as a step towards skilled employment or progression to third level. Successful students may apply to third level programmes at Institutes of Technology and Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme. There may be additional costs on some courses for materials, uniforms, etc. Learners may be eligible to apply for the Student Universal Support Ireland grant (SUSI), or the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA). All fees must be paid before commencement of the programme.

National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

NCS is a new scheme that provides nancial support to help parents to meet the costs of childcare. Whether you are on a full time or part time course, you may apply for this scheme. The subsidies are paid directly to your approved childcare provider. Visit www.ncs.gov.ie for more information or contact the Support Centre on (01) 9068530.

Location

Abbeyleix FETC

Mountrath Road

Abbeyleix

County Laois

R32 TX30

Facilities

  • Study Room
  • Free Parking
  • Disabled Parking
  • Canteen

Centre Opening Times

Monday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

* Bank Holidays and Public Holidays – Closed

Map

Contact

Helen Kavanagh, Centre Director

Email:

abbeyleixfet@loetb.ie

Phone

(057) 873 1127

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Address

Abbeyleix Further Education Centre, Mountrath Road, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois, R32 TX30, Ireland

Testimonials

Read what our past students have to say about their experience with the Biosciences course at Abbeyleix FETC

“I'm excited to talk about my experience at Abbeyleix's Bioscience and Laboratory Techniques course. For anyone wishing to learn about the exciting field of biosciences and develop useful laboratory skills, this program is excellent. The curriculum is well thought out, combining practical experience with academic knowledge to make sure I was ready for real-world applications. The modern laboratory spaces offered a hands-on classroom where I was able to work closely with the most recent tools and methods in the industry. The tutors in this course is one of its best features. In addition to their broad understanding and expertise, the tutors are very friendly and encouraging. They sincerely care about their students' achievement and provided individualised coaching and mentorship inside and outside the classroom. The course also places a strong emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking, giving us the students the tools we needed to succeed in a range of bioscience-related occupations. Regardless of interests in biotechnological innovation, clinical diagnostics, or research, this program provided a solid basis for any future pursuits. Abbeyleix not only provides academic and practical instruction, but also creates an inclusive and welcoming community. There are lots of new people available to meet at the center, who are as interested about bioscience as you are, but also others from different courses, you can build friendships with. All things considered, Abbeyleix Bioscience and Laboratory Techniques PLC is a superb course that offers thorough instruction, cultivates a positive learning environment. Anyone wishing to expand their knowledge and expertise in the biosciences should definitely consider it”.
Adam Bergin
Biosciences Laboratory Techniques Level 5 2023-2024