THIS September marks an exciting new chapter for learners in West Limerick at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s College of Further Education and Training (FET) Newcastle West Campus.
Newcastle West is home to two College of FET campuses: the Station Road Campus, located next to Desmond College, and the Round House Campus, situated at the junction of St Mary’s Road and Sheehan’s Road.
The Station Road Campus recently underwent a major transformation, with the installation of state-of-the-art modular classrooms. These modern facilities offer improved comfort, advanced technology, and enhanced learning environments, all designed with the learner experience in mind.
The campus has been a cornerstone of education in the region for over 20 years, supporting thousands of learners annually. Now, with the addition of the new modular classrooms, those embarking on new courses can enjoy modern, learner-focused spaces equipped with the latest technology, advanced IT infrastructure, and climate-controlled systems.
As autumn approaches, the newly-expanded campus will be welcoming learners across West Limerick as they embrace fresh learning opportunities with a broad range of courses.
Speaking about the new facilities, Ciarán Fox, FET co-ordinator at the campus, said: “This development represents the ETB’s ongoing commitment to providing the best possible learning environment to our community. The new classrooms reflect the standard of education we strive to deliver every day, and we’re proud of the teamwork that brought this vision to life.”
The campus offers over 200 full-time and part-time programmes each year, welcoming more than 2,000 learners in areas such as business administration, healthcare support, special needs assisting, computer skills, arts and crafts, and much more.
New programmes for September include environmental sustainability, security studies, Irish sign language, payroll and bookkeeping, local history, and woodturning.
Classes are delivered in a supportive, relaxed atmosphere where learners progress at their own pace, ideal for those returning to education or looking to upskill. Full-time courses run Monday to Friday, while part-time and evening options add flexibility to suit individual schedules.
Learners also benefit from extensive supports including educational guidance, device loans, one-to-one learning supports, assistive technology, and a dedicated learning hub. Work placements are also available to enhance real-world experience.
This latest infrastructural investment by the local ETB is part of a long-term goal of establishing a multi-million-euro FET College of the Future at a new site in Newcastle West, with government funding already secured and planning underway.
Enrolment is now open for autumn courses. Visit collegeofFET.ie/ncw to explore what’s possible at Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET Newcastle West Campus.