On behalf of the technological higher education sector, THEA congratulates all students who received offers through the CAO system today, 30th August. We also acknowledge the fact that Leaving Certificate results and CAO offers were issued earlier this year than last and look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Education to bring the schedule forward again in line with other European countries.
The technological higher education institutions are unique in the Irish higher education landscape as they are central to supporting the broadening of access; up to 50% of entrants into our institutions present with elements of either a previous year’s Leaving Certificate result or a Further Education qualification and they are a central pillar in the new Tertiary Education programmes announced earlier this year.
We wish to impress on the class of 2023 that there are many and varied routes into and through higher education. As with all previous years, we encourage students to consider carefully all their options, including their Level 6/7 offers and other pathways, that will be open to them in this extraordinary year.
Commenting on the release of CAO offers, Dr Joseph Ryan, CEO THEA stated: “In marking this day, we are painfully aware that the class of 2023 has endured enormous challenges, not just through the effect that the Covid pandemic has had on their second level education, but in the recent appalling sorrows that have impacted the entire nation. An extensive range of supports, both academic and pastoral, is available in all third level institutions and be assured as you enter higher education that your integration will be actively facilitated. For those who have received the offer they most wanted, warmest congratulations. For those who haven’t to date, be aware that there are many paths and options open to you and do explore the course offerings available in your own local region. The advent of Technological Universities to complement the remaining Institutes of Technology, provides an extended range of possibilities for impending students. Whatever your eventual path, on behalf of all our technological institutions, I wish you every success in the years ahead.”
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For further information, please contact: Róisín O’Connell, Head of Communications, THEA: roisin.oconnell@thea.ie; 087 9193333
The Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) is the representative body for technological higher education institutions comprising ATU, DkIT, IADT, SETU, TUS.
