Declan Gilhooly has always been interested in cars, recalling how he assisted his father with repairs on the family car when he was young. His enrolment to Cavan Institute on the Motor Vehicle Maintenance course seemed a natural progession for Declan. Initially in 2009 Declan completed his Leaving Certificate in Drumshambo Vocational School. He then went on to IT Sligo where he completed a year on an engineering course. After completing a year in IT Sligo, Declan secured a position as a Sales Assistant with a high street sports chain. He was quickly promoted to Sales Supervisor however he always longed to become a qualified mechanic. After hearing a radio advertisement promoting Cavan Institute, Declan attended the open day and quickly signed up for the Motor Vehicle Maintenance QQI Level 5 course. As part of the Motor Vehicle Maintenance course, Declan secured his work experience with Cavan Motors. Declan Gilhooly Motor Vehicle Maintenance Declan Gilhooly Motor Vehicle Maintenance Student testimonials Previous Next

Natasha is from Ballinagh, Cavan. She attended Breifne College, Cavan. Natasha is currently studying Business Studies (Level 8) in Dundalk Institute of Technology. Natasha tells us how studying at Cavan Institute helped her on her educational journey. "I first decided to go to Cavan Institute as I was young leaving secondary school (17) and still had no idea what course I wanted to study. I decided on business studies as it was something I had not done before at all and would be completely different to any subjects I had taken in school. When I was studying at Cavan institute, I gained a lot of skills that have stood to me today. These skills have been very beneficial to me studying on the Bachelor (Hons) of Business degree in DkIT. These skills included being able to stick to deadlines, completing continuous assessments, being able to use different computer software packages such as Excel and Sage. Being able to reference my work was also a great advantage to my current course. I completed work experience while studying at Cavan Institute. This helped me gain a lot more confidence working with the public and with other people. The tutors at Cavan Institute gave great support and guidance and really helped every student in any way they could. I gained my full distinction award in QQI L5 Business and used this to apply to DKIT through the CAO Higher Education Links Scheme. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cavan institute I made great friends and I would really recommend completing a PLC course before attending college not only are the skills you learn great but it’ll help students decide whether or not the course they want to do is really for them. Natasha McKenna Business Studies Natasha McKenna Business Studies Student testimonials Previous Next

Devorca from Cavan town, completed QQI Level 5 Pre-University Law and QQI Level 6 Administration and IT for Business at Cavan Institute. "I studied level 5 pre-university law and level 6 administration and IT skills. I chose to do the pre-university law course in Cavan Institute. It provided me with a great insight into the Irish law system. It provided me with practical skills that are required in the work place. As part of both courses, one mandatory subject was work experience. I believe that if I had not completed my work experience in a solicitor's office, I wouldn't be where I am today. The work experience gave me great knowledge on how a legal office works. I was also trained up on the software which is used in many legal offices. I am now working in a solicitor's office, being trained as a legal secretary. My courses in Cavan Institute gave me a great insight and has helped me in many ways. I now have the opportunity to become a qualified legal secretary. I can progress to a level 7 Diploma in Legal Studies and Practice in Griffith College." Devorca McCann Pre-University Law Devorca McCann Pre-University Law Student testimonials Previous Next

Stephen Hughes from Lavey, Co Cavan previously worked in the building industry but during the economic downturn decided he needed to change his career path and started out on the Accounting Technician course in September 2013. In May 2015 he achieved his goal and passed his exams with distinction. He is currently undertaking the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) accounting exams in Griffith College, Dublin. Stephen received a full-time contract with RP McEnroe & Co. Accountants, Mountnugent, Co. Cavan in January 2016 and he is now on his way to becoming a fully qualified accountant. Stephen Hughes Accounting Technician Stephen Hughes Accounting Technician Student testimonials Previous Next

Daniel Morgan from Killygarry, Co Cavan, studied the Sports Therapy/Physiotherapy Assistant course at Cavan Institute and progressed to Queen Margaret University Edinburgh where he is beginning his 4th and final year of BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy course. “It is safe to say I would not be where I am today without having chosen to go to Cavan Institute. I knew I wouldn’t get the leaving cert points required to get a place on a BSc Physiotherapy course, so I did the Sports Therapy/Physiotherapy Assistant course as a stepping stone to get to University. The course is ideal for anyone hoping to become a Physiotherapist as I learned about anatomy and physiology, exercise and fitness, injury treatment and prevention and nutrition. These are basic skills required for any Physiotherapist. The course also helps prepare you for University e.g. completing assignments, meeting deadlines, taking responsibility for your own learning as well as giving you a strong base of knowledge. The course is not just for those wanting to be Physiotherapists, its ideal for anyone wanting to work in the sports industry. I’ve worked with rugby and football teams using my sports massage, first aid, taping and strapping skills as well as helping players recover from injury by developing personalised exercises programs. All these skills can be used in any sports. I really enjoyed my two years at Cavan Institute and would highly recommend it to anyone that wants to be a Physiotherapist or work in sports." Daniel Morgan Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant Daniel Morgan Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant Student testimonials Previous Next

Discover Cavan Institute’s wide range of courses offering practical skills, recognised qualifications, and pathways to higher education or careers. Pre-Apprenticeship Hairdressing QQI Level 5 Course Code HV Major Award Code 5M3351 Apply Now About This Course This one year course is aimed at those who would like to pursue a career in hairdressing. Subjects within the course are tailored to suit the hairdressing industry and include cutting, styling, colouring, Hair-upstyling, Hair Extensions wigs, perming, and barbering techniques. Students will learn and practice their skills in the onsite hairdressing salons and will have the opportunity to work on models. Work experience is an integral part of the course enhancing employability skills. Modules Course Content Hairdressing Practical Creative Styling Skincare, Eye Treatments and Make-Up Barbering Techniques Hairdressing Theory Hairdressing Science Work Experience Safety and Health Progression Elsewhere: Should a student wish to pursue an alternative career path after completing year 1, they can use their qualification to gain entry to higher education. Students who have gained a full QQI level 5 award in any discipline are eligible to apply to the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to year one of a range of higher certificate and degree programmes at Higher Education Institutions (please check with the particular institution regarding local eligibility requirements). Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate or Leaving Certificate Applied or LCVP or QQI Level 4 Award. Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet these entry requirements. Course Fees Overview Content Progression Requirements Fees Previous Course Next Course Gabriele Ciskauskaite Hairdressing "I chose to study Hairdressing at Cavan Institute because I always wanted to be a hairdresser. It's amazing to have a qualification not just to be a hairdresser in this country but also in other countries. The teachers and students are amazing. They will give you everything." Gabriele Ciskauskaite - Cavan. Go Go More from Cavan Institute Courses All Courses Apply Online Start Here Supports Support Services FAQs Get Answers Contact Us If you have any questions, please get in touch. You can apply online through our website. We have an FAQ page, and course fees are easily accessible. First name* Last name* Email* Phone Message* I consent to Cavan Institute contacting me for the purpose of responding to my enquiry. Submit

Discover Cavan Institute’s wide range of courses offering practical skills, recognised qualifications, and pathways to higher education or careers. Pre-University Occupational Therapy Assistant QQI Level 5 Course Code OT Major Award Code 5M3782 Apply Now About This Course The Occupational Therapy Studies course combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for careers as Occupational Therapists (OTs) or Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs). The curriculum covers essential topics such as therapeutic interventions, patient care, and adaptive techniques. Practical modules and work experience placements in the vocational area provide hands-on experience, ensuring students are well-equipped to support patients in improving their daily living activities. Graduates can pursue further education through CAO and/or UCAS or enter the workforce directly, ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy. Modules Course Content Occupational Therapy Assistant Practice Occupational Therapy Assistant Theory Rehabilitation Support Infection Prevention and Control Anatomy and Physiology Work Experience Communications Care Support Understanding Mental Health Mathematics Progression Irish and UK Universities to complete BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Degree programmes. Entry Requirements Leaving Certificate or Leaving Certificate Applied or LCVP or QQI Level 4 Award. Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet these entry requirements. Course Fees At Cavan Institute, we believe that quality education should be within everyone’s reach. That’s why our courses continue to be offered at a simple, affordable fee of just €200. To support student access to facilities and a wide range of campus services, an additional €50 student services charge applies, bringing the total amount payable by students to €250. This contribution helps ensure students can benefit from essential supports and resources throughout their time at the Institute. Overall, we’re proud to offer a diverse range of courses at a price that remains significantly lower than that of many other colleges. Do you have a Medical Card? A valid medical card will exempt you from the €50 QQI exam fee, where applicable, reducing the total amount payable to €200. Overview Content Progression Requirements Fees Previous Course Next Course Caoimhe Farrelly Pre-University Occupational Therapy Assistant As a result of this course, I was successful in securing a place in Glasgow Caledonian University to do a BSc Hons degree in Occupational Therapy. Go Go More from Cavan Institute Courses All Courses Apply Online Start Here Supports Support Services FAQs Get Answers Contact Us If you have any questions, please get in touch. You can apply online through our website. We have an FAQ page, and course fees are easily accessible. First name* Last name* Email* Phone Message* I consent to Cavan Institute contacting me for the purpose of responding to my enquiry. Submit

Eli from Lough Gowna, Cavan studied year 1 and year 2 of the Sports Therapy /Physiotherapy Studies at Cavan Institute and progressed to study Physiotherapy in Fontys University of Applied Sciences in Eindhoven, Holland. "Without Cavan Institute, I doubt that I would be in the position that I am in today. I knew that I would not get the points needed in the Leaving Cert to do a Physiotherapy Course in Ireland, so I used Cavan Institute as a stepping stone to get into a University abroad. The course itself in Cavan Institute is filled with interesting topics such as Anatomy and Physiology, Injury Treatment and Prevention, Nutrition and Taping and Strapping. The knowledge that I attained in this course gave me a great start to University. I had a good foundation in the basics of Physiotherapy. Outside of the course, the college is perfect for educating people on how to prepare for life in University by allowing them to take on a more responsible role in their education. This includes completing assignments, practising self-study and meeting deadlines. If progressing into physiotherapy is not for you, there are still opportunities available to work within the sports sector. Before I started my physiotherapy degree, I gained knowledge during the Summer of 2018 by working with various football and soccer teams as a sports physio throughout the Cavan-Leitrim region, but mainly with Gowna GAA. It allowed me to develop my skills in taping and strapping, performing sports massage and using first aid as well. All of these skills are very desirable in the world of sport. My two years in Cavan Institute have allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a Physiotherapist and for that, I would definitely recommend Cavan Institute for anyone who wants to do Physiotherapy or become a Sports Physio." Eli Mellor Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant Eli Mellor Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant Student testimonials Previous Next

Orla from Edenticlare, attended Loreto College, Cavan. "I completed the level 5 course in Science and Laboratory Techniques in 2020. I decided to go to Cavan Institute to prepare myself for University. As I was living at home I could work part-time as well as do my studies, this gave me an opportunity to save up before moving to college. Studying science and laboratory techniques at Cavan Institute gave me an excellent grasp on the essential skills that I will need in university. As a result of completing this course, I have learned the importance of completing assignments on time, submitting them online and referencing researched information correctly. I loved how the modules in this course had a balance between practical and theory classes. This helped to keep me engaged and gave me a deeper understanding of the topics. We went on field trips throughout the year. I enjoyed visiting Maynooth University to do an investigation on the effect of TB on milk production in cows. I found it very interesting. I would like to thank my class tutor Nora Hennessey, for her continuous support, encouragement, and guidance all year. Without her, I would not have got my 10 distinctions. I had the privilege of being selected to travel to Tartu, Estonia on an Erasmus trip. I worked in a veterinary surgical practice and a milk analysis laboratory. I got the opportunity to experience the Estonian culture which certainly was one of the highlights of the year. I would like to thank Dawn Graham for her hard work organising this opportunity. I was part of the student council which helped organise multiple events for the college community throughout the year. I would like to thank Anne Traynor for her continuous support for events all year. She has all students’ best interests at heart. As a result of completing my year in Cavan Institute, I am going on to study a Masters in Diagnostic Radiography in Robert Gordon University Aberdeen. I am grateful for all the support from staff members in Cavan Institute for helping me achieve this. I would highly recommend the Science and Laboratory Techniques course to anyone who is interested in progressing to a third level course in a science-related discipline. It gives you an excellent foundation for core science subjects and teaches you the essential skills that you will need in college. As an aside, I applied to all 3 Scottish Universities and Ulster University and received an offer in all 4. I also received a Round 0 offer to study Clinical Measurement Science in TUD all thanks to my year in Cavan Institute." Orla O'Brien Science and Laboratory Techniques Orla O'Brien Science and Laboratory Techniques Student testimonials Previous Next

Cavan Institute offers a range of modern facilities to enhance your learning experience. Explore our digital media lab, carpentry workshop, gym, and more. FACILITIES Filter by Title Load More Virtual Campus Tour Take an immersive virtual tour of Cavan Institute. Explore our campus and see the fantastic teaching and learning facilities we have for specialist subject areas. Visit our modern labs, kitchens, beauty rooms, gym, recording studio, workshop and much more. Virtual Tour Sports and Recreation Facilities Students can also avail of the gym facilities located on the Dublin Road Campus on the outskirts of Cavan Town for various workshops taking place during the year. The gym has been fitted out with all the latest high spec equipment. Students playing Gaelic games can make use of the 3g all-weather pitch at Kingspan Breffni in Cavan. Students can also avail of the sports facilities on offer at the swimming pool and leisure complex near Block A at Drumalee in Cavan. More from Cavan Institute Courses All Courses Apply Online Start Here Supports Support Services FAQs Get Answers Contact Us If you have any questions, please get in touch. You can apply online through our website. We have an FAQ page, and course fees are easily accessible. First name* Last name* Email* Phone Message* I consent to Cavan Institute contacting me for the purpose of responding to my enquiry. Submit

Abigail Brennan joined us in September 2021. She is from Longford and tells her story here. "In 2021, I was unsure of what career path to follow. After researching many courses, I decided on the Office Administration and Technology course at Cavan Institute. It has a range of both practical and theoretical modules, with good employment and progression opportunities. Travel to the college was convenient for me and the fees were low. The course has more than met my expectations and has been enjoyable, rewarding and confidence boosting. The teachers are all, without exception, enthusiastic, encouraging, helpful, supportive and positive. Work experience is a key element of the course, and we were required to find a ten-day placement. I had no experience of office work and was unsure of how to find a placement that would be beneficial, suitable and enjoyable for me. My work experience teacher gave me advice on job finding, CV preparation and interview skills as well as the contact details of local employers who were, at that time, offering placements to suitable candidates. This gave me the confidence to apply for and secure a part time receptionist’s job at the Cavan Crystal Hotel. This I have been able to do at weekends whilst I complete my course. A collaborative approach to learning is encouraged and, as a result, our class group were really friendly and sociable both online and on site. It was a very effective way to work and learn and it helped us all progress very well. There was a good mix of students with some who had just left school, mature students and both male and female in the class. It meant we mixed with people of different ages and backgrounds and nationalities. We forged great friendships and made time for tea breaks and laughter along the way. Under the guidance of our tutor, we became a connected and inclusive group. My advice is if you are unsure of what career path to follow the Office Administration and Technology course is a great place to start as the skills learned are useful no matter what area of work you eventually decide to enter." Abigail Brennan Office Administration and Technology Abigail Brennan Office Administration and Technology Student testimonials Previous Next

Cavan Institute's PLC Access course supports Youthreach & LCA students with Level 4/5 modules, college experience, and access to training allowances and laptops. Course Overview The Level 5 PLC Access programme is aimed at students coming directly from a Youthreach or Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) course. This bridging programme allows students to experience college life in Cavan Institute in a supported environment, while completing Level 4 and 5 modules. Students can sample the course areas they are interested in progressing to at Cavan Institute. Students may be entitled to a training allowance and support, including access to a laptop to help them complete the Access course. The Access course is designed to find the most suitable course for you while developing your academic skills. Career Prospects After completion of the PLC Access Programme, students will be able to gain entry to a QQI Level 5 course at Cavan Institute. All QQI Level 5 programmes have progression opportunities to degree courses at Institutes of Technology and Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme. Application From PLC Access Programme More from Cavan Institute Courses All Courses Apply Online Start Here Supports Support Services FAQs Get Answers Contact Us If you have any questions, please get in touch. You can apply online through our website. We have an FAQ page, and course fees are easily accessible. First name* Last name* Email* Phone Message* I consent to Cavan Institute contacting me for the purpose of responding to my enquiry. Submit