Third level education collaboration agreed

The CEO of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB) and the president of Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) have signed an agreement to step up their collaboration.

LIT already enrols 300 students through the further education and post-Leaving Certificate colleges sector every year. This number is set to grow significantly as LIT and the LCETB have now formalised their links, which will help to create smooth and seamless pathways for students. Such pathways will be supported by a bonus points system on the CAO for students entering first year. In cases of a good subject match, students completing Advanced Certificate Level 6 with LCETB affiliated schools and colleges will be offered advanced entry straight into second year for linked programmes.

Currently, LIT students coming through from Further Education and Training (FET) are attending a diverse range of programmes including Applied Biology, Hospitality, Applied Social Care, Music Technology and Business.

George O’Callaghan, CEO of LCETB said,  “We look forward to working with LIT in developing the strands of this link through collaboration and the provision of pathways for our students and FET division that provide significant progression opportunities in higher education. This collaboration will also enhance provision in both the further education and third level spheres in this region.”

Dr Maria Hinfelaar, president, LIT said, “This agreement marks a relationship which is already very good and which is now deepening. It is entirely in keeping with national strategy for higher education, which aims to improve opportunities for learners by linking up different parts of the system.