Open day is a huge success for DIFE
DROGHEDA Institute of Further Education (DIFE) opened its doors to prospective students from over 30 secondary schools as part of its annual schedule of Open Day events.
Among the 47 courses on offer at DIFE, new additions for 2019, including QQI Level 5 certificates in Barbering and Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, as well as Level 6 advanced certificates in Health Studies and Pre-University Physiotherapy, drew considerable interest; while the incorporation of Higher Level Irish as an optional module within the well-established Pre-University Arts course proved popular with those hoping to progress on to careers in primary and secondary teaching.
The introduction of Microsoft Office Specialist Certification and Cybersecurity to the I.T. and Computer Systems and Networks courses respectively was likewise well received, as was the introduction of International Trade to the Level 6 Business course.
In the area of Building Construction, the Pre-Apprenticeship course, another new offering for 2019, appealed both to those interested in securing construction-related apprenticeships or direct employment and those intending to continue on to higher education.
During their visit, the students explored the college’s state of the art campus which includes a culinary arts kitchen, a full size, all-weather football pitch, beauty and hairdressing salons, a science lab, art and design studios, engineering and motor vehicle rooms, computer labs, a library and a dedicated animal care building.
With current students on hand to demonstrate the skills they have acquired to-date, the practical benefits of these facilities were on full display, illustrating some of the many achievements that have led to DIFE’s recent shortlisting in the Best Further Education Provider category of the Education Awards 2019. While they will have to wait until February for the winner of this coveted award to be revealed, the success of the Open Day events has been immediately felt through the unprecedented interest shown and the increase in applications which are currently open at www.dife.ie.