Leaving Cert Results Day is one of the biggest milestones in a young person’s life. For many students and parents, the focus immediately turns to CAO offers, college places, PLC courses and deciding what comes next.
But if your results weren’t what you hoped for, if you didn’t get your first-choice course, or if you’re simply exploring alternatives to the traditional university route, it’s important to know that there are many pathways into a successful career.
In fact, some of Ireland’s fastest-growing industries are actively recruiting people who have gained practical, industry-focused skills through Further Education and Training (FET), apprenticeships and traineeships.
At FIT, we work with Education and Training Boards (ETBs), Further Education colleges and industry partners across Ireland to help people build careers in technology, cybersecurity, software development, networking, AI and advanced manufacturing.
If you’re researching your options after the Leaving Cert, here’s a look at some of the opportunities available this autumn.
Looking Beyond the CAO: Technology Apprenticeships
Many students and parents automatically think of university as the next step after the Leaving Cert. However, technology apprenticeships are becoming one of the most popular alternatives to college, offering the opportunity to earn while you learn, gain work experience and achieve a recognised qualification.
Technology apprentices spend part of their time with an employer and part of their time in education, giving them practical experience and valuable industry skills from day one.
- Software Development Apprenticeship:
📍 Dublin (In-Person)
Starting September 2026
Delivered in partnership with City of Dublin ETB at the Liberties College campus
📍 Galway (Hybrid / Blended)
Starting October 2026
Delivered in partnership with Galway and Roscommon ETB
This programme provides learners with the technical and professional skills needed for a career in software development. Students gain experience in coding, software design, testing and development while building valuable workplace experience.
- Computer Networking Apprenticeship
📍 Dublin (In-Person)
Starting October 2026
Delivered in partnership with Dublin and Dún Laoghaire ETB at Loughlinstown Training Centre.
This programme prepares apprentices for careers supporting and managing IT infrastructure, networks and digital systems.
- Cybersecurity Apprenticeship
📍 Kerry (Hybrid / Blended)
Starting October 2026
Delivered in partnership with Kerry ETB at Monavalley Campus.
This programme equips learners with the skills needed to help organisations respond to growing cyber threats and protect critical digital infrastructure.
Ready to take the next step in tech?
To be eligible for a Tech Apprenticeship programme, applicants must be:
- 18 years or older
- Achieved a passing grade (or O6/H7) in 5 or more subjects to include Maths and English (Ordinary Level) in the Irish Leaving Certificate or NFQ Level 5 equivalent
- Eligible to participate in Further Education and Training programmes
- Living in Ireland
- Entitled to study and work in Ireland (only Stamps 4, 5 & 6 visas currently eligible)
Apply for an upcoming tech apprenticeship programme here or contact FIT directly on info@fit.ie for more information.
