Regional Tour Guiding (TOUR- 6S20233)

Leads to NFQ Level 6 QQI Special Purpose Award in Regional Tour Guiding (6S20233)

The purpose of this award (which was developed in collaboration with Fáilte Ireland) is to enable learners to acquire the relevant knowledge, skills and competencies to work effectively as a Tourist Guide in Dublin, the Ancient East & Hidden Heartlands.

Many past students of this well-established course have set up their own tour guiding businesses or are employed as on site Tour Guides at visitor attractions and heritage sites.

There is a strong emphasis on sustainable tour management and the Leave No Trace principles. Students will also complete a certified Leave No Trace Awareness programme.

Throughout the course students are encouraged to develop their own unique tours based on special interest tourism.

There are a number of familiarisation tours to heritage and tourism sites; guest lectures from industry representatives; and talks from past students. Students will also get the opportunity to participate in a Failte Ireland Tour Guide Networking session.

On completion of the course students will have the option of a listing on Failte Ireland Directory of Approved Tour Guides & can join relevant industry associations.

Entry Requirements

Education: Leaving Certificate or equivalent
Aptitude: An interest in providing tour guiding activities to clients
Previous Experience: None required

Course Content

Irish Tour Guiding (QQI – 6N20229)
Irish Natural Heritage & Culture (QQI – 6N20231)
Digital Marketing (QQI – 5N1364)
Professional Presentation (QQI – 6N4006)

On successful completion of this programme learners will be able to:

– Create themed walking tours in the region
– Design day & extended tours
– Understand itinerary planning skills
– Develop coach guiding skills
– Create their own special interest tours & tourism products
– Apply digital marketing & promotional skills
– Pitch tour ideas to Tour Operators
– Know how to use & apply health & safety risk assessment software

Plan and implement themed tour itineraries in Dublin and the surrounding areas
Demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of culture and heritage in Dublin and surrounding areas
Develop a range of communication, information and customer care skills
Become confident in using digital media skills to promote tourism products and services to target potential customers
Manage and conduct tours as a self-employed guide or work for an incoming tour operator
Implement best safety and environmental practices. Implement tour management skills and techniques

All PLC courses have a non-refundable €50 acceptance/registration fee.
In addition to this fee, please note that specialist training costs, material costs, or professional fees may apply to some courses.