Open Day: School of Adult Education (VTOS)
Course Director Deirdre Finneran explains our VTOS programme
Hear from our Healthcare Students
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a dependant on my partner's social welfare payment. Can I become a VTOS student?
Yes, if your partner is eligible for VTOS then you too are eligible, provided you are over 21. You may each attend programmes or you may attend even if your partner is not participating. You may still participate if your partner previously attended under VTOS.
Do I get grant while I am on VTOS?
You continue to receive your normal social welfare payment under VTOS. If you are on a Jobseekers' payment prior to VTOS your payment will be made by VTOS directly into your bank account. You also continue to receive any secondary entitlements you have, such as winter fuel allowance. While on VTOS you may work part-time, up to a maximum of 20 hours per week.
I am 21 in October 2022. Can I apply for a VTOS place then?
Unfortunately, this is not possible. You must be 21 years or older by your course commencement date (normally the middle of September). You are not eligible for VTOS unless you are 21when your course has started.
Are there any other financial supports available to me under VTOS?
Your course fees, examination fees and material requirements (like books, uniforms, or equipment) are all provided free of charge. The is a contribution of €4 per week meal allowance and a travel allowance, based on distance from your home to the college.
Which courses can I attend under VTOS?
Core VTOS programmes are only open to VTOS-eligible students. This means everyone is over 21 and eligible to attend. In Coláiste Íde the Core Classes are:
Early Childhood Care and Education Level 5
Early Childhood Care and Education Level 6
Community Health Services Level 5
Health Services Supervisory Management Level 6
Dispersed VTOS students are VTOS-eligible students who enrol in other PLC programmes in the college. You may apply for any of our fulltime PLC programmes.
Explore our courses further
- Horticulture (VTOS)
- Office Administration with Banking and Insurance Studies (VTOS)
- Health Service Skills with Special Needs Qualification (VTOS)
- Stage One Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care (Childcare Level 5) NL12123
- Community Health Services Level 5 (VTOS)
- ELC Stage 2 Advanced Certificate in Learning and Care (Childcare Level 6) NL12131/Q6M
- Health Services Supervisory Management Level 6 (VTOS)
- Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS)
- Testimonials: School of Adult Education (VTOS)
Student Stories
"I returned to education to study Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) as part of a Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) in Colaiste Ide. From the onset, the support and encouragement that I received from the teachers in the college whilst studying for my Quality Qualifications of Ireland (QQI) Level 5 & 6 was second to none. Throughout my two years, the teachers in Colaiste Ide were invaluable in motivating me to learn and their dedication and belief in me helped to build my confidence as a student which in turn inspired me to apply for a BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Education."Read More Testimonials from our School of Adult Education (VTOS)
