Adequate facilities and a suitable learning environment are just as important to students in further education as undergraduates. Each further education college should have a well-stocked library, comfortable study and classroom space and up to date IT facilities.

The range of facilities available at a College of Further Education is obviously linked to the courses offered. Some subjects such as science, engineering, IT or media courses require specialised up to date laboratories or studios and Colleges of Further Education endeavour to provide the best learning environment for their students. In common with the investment ongoing in other third level institutions in Ireland, the last few years have seen a substantial improvement in the facilities and services available to students.

Education in many subjects requires the use of specialist facilities. Advanced equipment and resources are in place for students taking a wide range of subjects at Colleges of Further Education around the country. For example the Ballyfermot College of Further Education’s facilities for its music technology students include Analog and Digital Recording Studios, a Multi-Media Computer Room, Sound Programming Room, 24 Individual Midi Terminals, and 8 Recording Booths. Other colleges provide similarly impressive facilities for their students.

Sports and recreational activities are also highly supported, with pitches, gyms and social amenities available for students to use at many Colleges of Further Education. Some Colleges of Education also have theatre or exhibition spaces for students to perform or display their work. There is generally an ample canteen and social space for students to relax between classes.

Everyone realises that from time to time students may have problems not directly related to their studies. Colleges of Further Education also provide facilities and services to help students with personal, health and counselling matters. There are also many links between local employers and industry and the careers services at the Colleges of Further Education.

Students at Ireland’s Colleges of Further Education have access to a wide variety of on-campus facilities and amenities. Suitable classroom, laboratory and library facilities, as well as sports and social amenities, mean that students are well looked-after during their time at college, and are fully prepared to move into a rewarding career or to progress up the third level ladder.