The Back to Education Initiative (BTEI)

What is the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI)? 

• Part-time free courses for young people and adults, who did not complete the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent). 
• Education and training for people in employment who want to upgrade their skills and get qualifications. 
• A link to full-time further education and training and a progression route from basic education. 
• A chance to combine education and training with family, work and other responsibilities as there is a wide range of flexible options. 
• BTEI allows you to study part-time without affecting your social welfare payment. 

BTEI courses are free if you: 

Have less than upper second level education. 

Get a social welfare payment. 

Have a current full medical card. 

What about accreditation? 

Courses offer certification usually at QQI Levels 3, 4 and 5 on the National Qualification Framework (NFQ).  

How many hours per week and for long are the courses? 

Courses can vary 1 hour to 17 hours per week and can run from 6 weeks to 30 weeks.

What type of courses can you do? 

Childcare, Office Skills, IT Skills, English, Business Studies, Horticulture, Cookery and Art. 

Contact your local area for more information about courses