Mullingar Community College

Mullingar Community College, located in County Westmeath, operates under the Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB). While the college functions as a mainstream secondary school, it also features a dedicated Further Education department that provides a range of Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses. These adult and further education programmes are designed to support recent school leavers, mature students, and individuals seeking to upskill or transition into new career paths.

QQI-Accredited PLC Courses and Progression Routes

The college offers full-time PLC courses, typically at QQI Level 5, in areas such as Nursing Studies, Healthcare Support, Early Childhood Care and Education, Business Studies, and Hairdressing. A key benefit of these programmes is their integration with the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). This allows graduates to use their QQI qualifications as an alternative route to apply for CAO places at higher education institutions, including the nearby Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and other universities across Ireland.

For career changers and adult learners, the courses focus heavily on practical skills and include mandatory work experience modules, facilitating direct entry into the workforce. Applicants interested in healthcare or childcare should note that statutory Garda vetting is a mandatory requirement prior to undertaking work placements. In accordance with national further education funding, government tuition fees for PLC courses have been abolished, though students may need to cover minor costs for specific equipment, uniforms, or professional kits. Eligible students can apply for financial assistance through SUSI or explore supports like the Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) via their local Intreo office.

Contact Details

Millmount Rd, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Tel: (044) 934 0786 Web: Mullingarcc.ie