There is a well-established progression path for students who have achieved a full FETAC/QQI certificate to progress to degree course in Higher Education intuitions. This is known as the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS).  Check out progression options by downloading the BFEI Progression Pathways Chart here.

The Institute Counselling Service is a free confidential service available to full time learners.

Blackrock Further Education Institute welcomes mature applicants and encourages their return to study. Mature applicants are eligible to apply for any of our courses if they wish to broaden their education and skills and develop new interests. A substantial number of mature students enrol each year and the Institute believes that the contribution of mature students is valuable and beneficial to the Institute as a whole.

SOLAS (Further Education and Skills Service)  aims to assist students with disabilities and specific learning difficulties to participate in Further Education.

The Student Sports and Social (S&S) Committee is the body responsible for the co-ordination of social, cultural and sporting events for students at BFEI. Representatives from each class are elected to the Committee towards the end of September each year. All students are actively encouraged to participate and support Committee activities. The co-ordination of these activities is facilitated by staff members.

The European Union provides funding to support Further Education students to undertake work experience placements in Europe under the Erasmus+ Programme. Funding is provided to cover the cost of flights, travel insurance and accommodation as well as day to day living expenses. BFEI currently has partners in Tenerife and Malaga in Spain and in Utrecht in the Netherlands. View our Erasmus video here.