CAO Information Evening 2016 Maynooth University

CAO Information Evening 2016 

 

When: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 - 19:00 to 21:00

Where: John Hume Building, North Campus, Maynooth University 

 

CAO experts will be on hand to advise and guide parents, guardians, CAO applicants (including Leaving Certificate students, mature student applicants and Further Education students) and all interested parties about the CAO application process. Representatives from our academic departments will also be available to discuss the range of subjects available at the University. Refreshments will be provided. Register at link above

College of Computing Technology

The College of Computing Technology (CCT), which is based in Dublin City Centre is an independent college that offer QQI accredited programs at levels 6,7 and 8 in both Information Technology and Business.

Applications for all of their courses are available through the CAO.  Some key points regarding CCT :

·         QQI accredited courses at levels 6, 7 and 8
·         Opportunity for students to enter a level 6 program and progress through to level 7 and level 8
·         Last year All Qualified Applicants were accepted in on level 6 and level 7 programs (5 passes at ordinary level, including mathematics).
·         Tuition fees for 2016 for CAO students are €3,200 per annum.
·         No additional registration or examination fees.
·         Great location, Westmoreland Street,  easy access by bus, Luas and train.
·         Courses scheduled over 3 days per week with classes fixed between 9:30 and 4:30.

Full details of the college and courses are available on their website: www.cct.ie 

CAO Courses Alert Lists

CAO have published their college alert lists. Please see this link for news about course changes, new courses or cancelled courses. Please check the lists for the colleges you are applying to. 

UCD Engineering and Architecture Info Evenings

UCD have two open days taking place in January which will provide students and parents the opportunity to speak with lecturers, students and recent graduates to find out more about studying with us.

• UCD Engineering: Wednesday 13th January 2016, 6pm - 8.30pm register here
  • Engineering DN150
    
  • Structural Engineering with Architecture DN140
    
• UCD School of Architecture, Planning & Environmental Policy: Saturday 23rd January 2016, 12pm - 2.30pm register here
  
  • Architecture DN100
    
  • Landscape Architecture DN120
    
  • Planning, Georgraphy & Environment DN514
    

You may also find the following documents very helpful Engineering and Architecture & Landscape Architecture as they provide the key information around the undergraduate programmes offered by UCD College of Engineering & Architecture.

DIT Open Day info!

5th and 6th years should take a look at this slideshow if they intend on visiting DIT this weekend for their open days...

Interested in a career in healthcare

RCSI Show “So You Want to Be a Doctor?” is a series which will give students an insight into what life is really like as a doctor. Please click on the link at 6pm on Wednesday 9th Dec and Tuesday 19th January to watch the live broadcast.
 
Viewers will be brought to Beaumont Hospital on Wednesday 9th December 2015 at 6pm where Dr Emma Tong will detail why she decided to study medicine and how she became a clinical lecturer in Surgery at RCSI. Viewers will be able to see Dr Tong in action running a clinical skills tutorial.

On Tuesday 19th January 2016 at 6pm, Professor James Paul O’Neill,  who is an otolaryngologist or ENT surgeon in Beaumont Hospital and RCSI, will explain to viewers his specialty which involving treating illnesses concerned with the ear, nose and throat (ENT).

Throughout the broadcast, students and viewers can also get involved, as a live-streamed question and answer session will take place at the end of each episode in the series. They will address any comments, queries and questions viewers on studying medicine, being a doctor or on what specialties they have seen in the broadcast. Students can send in their comments and questions via Twitter (@RCSI_Irl) and Facebook using #RCSIBeADoc. Alternatively, they can be sent in by email in advance of the broadcast and on the night to beadoc@rcsi.ie.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing us at beadoc@rcsi.ie, visiting www.rcsi.ie/beadoc or calling 01 402 2196.

DIT and Trinity Open Days this weekend!

DIT and Trinity are hosting Open Days this Saturday 5th December. All 5th and 6th years should consider going and asking questions about courses they might be interested in. Please see DIT schedule here.
And Trinity schedule here.

Level 8 Professional Diploma in Stage Management and Technical Theatre

Trinity's Lir Theatre School Level 8 Professional Diploma in Stage Management and Technical Theatre course trains students for careers in professional theatres and related industries.  This is a TWO year course at Level 8 and is NOT part of CAO. Please apply online here

This course trains students for careers in professional theatres and related industries.
Training as a stage manager and technical specialist is taught through the development of skills, instruction in professional practices and creative approaches to theatre production.  Through a series of skills-based courses in Stage Craft, Stage Technology and Stage Management the course will equip students with the skills necessary to manage a theatre production. - See more at: http://www.thelir.ie/courses/view/diploma-in-stage-management-and-technical-theatre#sthash.27uQGoVx.dpuf

This course trains students for careers in professional theatres and related industries.
Training as a stage manager and technical specialist is taught through the development of skills, instruction in professional practices and creative approaches to theatre production.  Through a series of skills-based courses in Stage Craft, Stage Technology and Stage Management the course will equip students with the skills necessary to manage a theatre production. - See more at: http://www.thelir.ie/courses/view/diploma-in-stage-management-and-technical-theatre#sthash.27uQGoVx.dpuf

Parents' Talk - Cracking the College Code

Reminder to all parents - there is a talk in the school hall tomorrow evening at 7.30 from Catherine O'Connor, education consultant from Trinity College Dublin on the First Year college experience. All welcome. 

TY Bar of Ireland Programme

The Bar of Ireland’s TY programme is now launched and open for applications and as you may know.

There's an informational video available here. 

For more on the TY programme, see https://www.lawlibrary.ie/SpecialPages/Transition-Year-Programme.aspx.  

If you want to apply, remember to have your essay back to Ms. O'Connor or Mr. Ferguson by Friday 4th December latest!

Choices 2016

A great evening was had by TY, 5th and 6th years at the Choices careers event - some really interesting careers info gathered by all. Well done for attending and taking the initiative. Many thanks to the CBC Parents' Council for generously organising the bus to the event!

3rd Level Study in Holland

The Holland Education Consortium, in association with EUNiCAS,  are providing students and their  families the chance to come and learn about life-changing education opportunities in the Netherlands, at an event in Dublin on Thursday, 3 December 2015 from 15:30 to 21:30 in Louis Fitzgerald Hotel - Naas Road. Dublin 22... BOOK a spot here
The Consortium consists of eight Dutch universities who work together to promote Dutch higher education. Between them, these universities offer a significant number of English-taught programmes, at undergraduate and postgraduate level. These universities include: University of Groningen, University of Twente, Radboud University, Stenden UAS, Hanze UAS, Hague UAS and HAN UAS. In addition, EUNICAS will be available to give information.
Importantly, Irish students attending these universities [and they are the real experts!], will be avialable to share their experiences.

Timeline
6.30 - 7.30 Mini-exhibition, where students and their families can meet universities [and Irish students]
7.30 - 8.30  Presentation on 'Studying in the Netherlands'
8.30 - 9.30 Students/families can meet universities 1:1

Better Options Careers Fair - DARE students

Better Options college fair for students with disabilities and specific learning difficulties will take place in DIT Grangegorman on Nov 26th 2015. This is an ideal fair for students looking to find out about courses and support services provided by colleges as well as garner key information on the access routes for those with disabilities.

Many major colleges will be represented in the Exhibition hall and useful seminars will run concurrently.

When: 10:00-13:00, Nov 26th, 2015

Where: St. Laurence's Church & Rathdown House, Dublin Institute of Technology, Grangegorman Campus

Cost: Free - registration is not required, just show up

NCAD + NCI Open Days Wed 25th

NCAD and NCI are both having Open Days tomorrow, Wednesday 25th November if you can free up time to head in after school! Please see links for details

IADT Open Day Saturday 28th Nov

IADT'S Open DAY takes place on Friday, 27^th November (10am – 4pm) and Saturday, 28^th November (10am – 2pm). See link for details and times of talks

Choices 2016 - Careers Fair TY, 5th, 6th years

Choices 2016 is being held on Thursday 26th November from 7.30-9pm in St. Kilian's German School in Clonsekagh.

Representatives from UCD, TCD, DIT, IADT, NCAD, RCSI, DCU, NCAD, Maynooth University, NUIG, DBS, GCD, NCI, ITTallaght, ITBlanchardstown, ITCarlow, Bronwyn Conroy Beauty College and local Colleges of further Education, An Garda Siochana, the Defence Forces, STEPS Engineering, SAP,Oxbridge Academic Programs, ENUICAS (Study in Europe through English) and Fulbright (Education USA). Foreign universities including IE Spain, Ecole Hoteliere De Lausanne, Sciences Po, La Rochelle Business School, TBS Barcelona and The German Federal Employment Agency.

The CBC Parents' Council have kindly organised a bus to leave from CBC at 7pm returning approx. 9pm. Any interested students please make sure they give their name to Ms. O'Connor by tomorrow latest

UCD Maths, Stats, BAFS evening - Tuesday 24th

UCD are hosting their Maths, Stats and BAFS info evening tomorrow Tuesday 24th in the Science building. Please see link for details and registration

DCU's Centre for Talented Youth TY courses

Attention TYs DCU are offering TY correspondence course in Cutting Edge Science, Legal Studies, Medicine, Psychology, Writing. Anyone interested please see link - deadline extended until Dec 4th

National Anti-Bullying Website Launched

 

The National Anti-Bullying website has been launched by the Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O’Sullivan T.D., www.tacklebullying.ie.

The website, which was developed by the National Anti-Bullying Research and Resource Centre (ABC) at Dublin City University, provides information, support and advice for students, teachers and parents on how to recognise and deal with bullying behaviour and allows teenagers to share experiences with their peers online.

UCD - info session for HEAR and DARE applicants

UCD Access Centre is hosting a HEAR (Higher Education Access Route) and DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) information session for 6th year school pupils and their parent(s)/guardian(s) in your area.

This session, which is taking place in L024, UCD Sutherland School of Law, Belfield, Dublin 4, on November 25th from 7pm to 9pm will give attendees all the information they require to make an application to the schemes.

DCU Open Day - 21st Nov

DCU are hosting their Open Day this weekend on Saturday 21st November for anyone interested

Cork IT School of Music

Cork IT School of Music offer degrees in Music (Classical, Traditional Irish, Jazz), BA in Theatre and Drama Studies and  BA in Popular Music - drums, bass, guitar, keyboard, voice. Their open day is this Saturday 21st for anyone interested

UCD - Computer Science Open Evening

UCD are hosting their Computer Science open evening on Tuesday 17th November. Please see this link for further details and to register

Colaiste Dhulaigh - open for applications 16th Nov

Colaiste Dhulaigh in Coolock is a very popular college of Further Education with preparatory courses in Animation, Film and Art along with many other courses in various subject areas. It is open for applications earlier than most other colleges from Monday 16th November. Please see the link for details.

UCD Chemistry Open Evening

UCD are hosting their Chemistry Open Evening this Thursday 12th November. See the link for registration and details

Competition with prize of €2,000

‘Let’s Talk About Drugs’ National Youth Media Awards is a competition for young people and is supported by the Department of Health, the HSE, COSC, the Ana Liffey Drug Project, Healthy Ireland and the Drugs.ie website, which is Ireland’s National Drug and Alcohol Information and Support Website.

This annual drugs education competition aims to help students explore and understand various issues relating to drug and alcohol use in Irish society. To enter, students are asked to create either: a short video, an audio podcast, a news article; or a poster on one of the following themes: (a) The hidden harm of alcohol use; (b) The effects of drug use. The age categories for entering are: 12-14; 15-17; 18-21; 22-25.

More information about the competition can be found at drugs.ie/awards. 

Last year there were some fantastic entries that can be viewed here: http://www.drugs.ie/resources/awards/twentythirteen_winners/2015_winners/.

Trinity's Lir Acting School Audition Workshops

The Lir are hosting two days of Acting Workshops on Saturday 21st November and Saturday 12th December. These are open to anyone over the age of 16 and may be particularly useful to any students thinking of applying to The Lir or any other Drama/Theatre/Acting courses or roles in the future. Info and booking here

Trinity - top in Europe for Entrepreneurs, UCD 4th

This article for an interesting read re. entrepreneurship and business for anyone thinking of going to Trinity and UCD

CAO open for business

All 6th yrs should be aware that the CAO is now open as of 12.00 today. Until 20th January 2016 it costs €25 to apply, after this date it costs €40. Closing date and time is 17.15, 1st February 2016. Please note ALL restricted courses (medicine and most art, music, drama based courses) must be on your course choice list by February 1st. 

Trinity Maths/Physics Open Day

The Trinity Maths and Physics Open Day will take place from 10:00 until 15:30, Saturday, 14 November 2015. The day features lectures and tours along with a chance to meet staff and students from both the School of Physics and the School of Mathematics. The event will be held in the MacNeill Lecture Theatre, Hamilton Building, East End of Trinity College, by Westland Row. Pedestrian access through College, or via Lincoln Place, or through Science Gallery entrance on Pearse St.

Please register here to reserve a place as numbers are limited to ~300.
Registration opens 10:00. Talks begin 10:50
Programme covers degree courses in:

• Physics
• Physics & Astrophysics
• Nanoscience
• Mathematics
• Theoretical Physics
• Maths & other subjects

Cracking the College Code Parents' Information Talk

The CBC Parents' Council have organised a Parents' Information Talk with Catherine O'Connor, education consultant from Trinity College Dublin, to take place on Monday 30th November at 7.30pm in the school hall. The talk is designed to provide insights and practical advice for parents on how to support their child in choosing the right college course and making the most of the college experience. All parents are most welcome, but it may be of particular relevance to 6th year and 5th year parents. The 6th year students will have a parallel talk on Thursday 10th December during school time - more info to follow

Choosing the right CAO course

6th years please see here a very practical and useful checklist which may help in choosing the right CAO course next year

NCAD Portfolio Information Days

NCAD will host three separate Portfolio Information days on Sat 7th Nov at 12.30pm, Tuesday 10th Nov at 5.30pm and Wed 11th Nov at 5.30pm. See here for booking

The Lir courses - Trinity College Dublin Acting and Theatre School

Applications for the undergraduate courses at The Lir Academy at Trinity College Dublin, have now opened. 

There are three courses available:

1. Foundation Diploma in Acting and Theatre - http://www.thelir.ie/courses/view/foundation-course-in-acting 

2. Professional Diploma in Stage Management and Technical Theatre - http://www.thelir.ie/courses/view/diploma-in-stage-management-and-technical-theatre

3. Bachelor in Acting degree - http://www.thelir.ie/courses/view/bachelor-in-acting

All applications can be downloaded from The Lir website and when completed are returned directly to the Academy. We do not go through the CAO system and entry onto the courses is not points based, it is based on talent. Both the stage management and technical theatre and the acting courses are subject to FREE FEES. The foundation diploma in acting and theatre is not.

There are careers in stage management, in sound design, in lighting, in costume, in scenic art and in stage construction. For anyone who has worked on school productions or productions within the community the Professional Diploma in Stage Management and Technical Theatre would be ideal. We do require that students have at least six months experience before starting the course.

The open day for The Lir is Saturday 5th December as part of Trinity’s Open Day. We will have a presence in the drama department at Trinity College Dublin and we will also have tours of The Lir and a presentation by the Director in The Lir during the day.

Midterm Break

A big well done for all the hard work, study and efforts gone in by all students and staff to during the first half of term. Enjoy the well deserved break. Make the most of the rest and renewal... Enjoy the lie-ins and Happy Halloween!
               

Study skills for 6th, 5th, 3rd and 2nd yrs

Study skills with Student Enrichment Services will run as follows for students after midterm...

Monday 9th November

6th yrs 9.15-12.00 (break from 10.55-11.10)

5th yrs 12.05-3.15 (lunch 1.10-2)

Monday 30th November

3rd yrs 9.15-12.00 (break from 10.55-11.10)

2nd yrs 12.05-3.15 (lunch 1.10-2)

All classes run as normal before and after study sessions.

UCD BA info eve cancelled 22nd October

UCD BA information evening tomorrow Thursday 22nd October has been cancelled. They apologise for any inconvenience caused and woyld like all prospective students to know there will be an opportunity to attend talks and meet with staff from the BA Course at the UCD Open Day. The UCD Open Day will take place on Saturday, 7 November from 10am until 4pm. Visit www.ucd.ie/openday for further information.

Coding opportunity for all students

Google's Call to Code is open for registration. See here for details 

UCD Open days and evenings

Please see the list here for all upcoming open days and subject specific evenings at UCD

6th year parents' Careers Talk

Please find a link to last night's 6th yr parents Career Options talk by Ms. O'Connor here
It would be useful for 6th years to take a look also :)

IADT midterm workshops

Dun Laoghaire IADT are holding several workshops for some of their Honours degree courses over midterm for prospective students on Wednesday 28th October. The workshops are aimed at 6th years but are also open to 5th yr and TY students. See details below for specific workshops and email elena.somoza@iadt.ie before Thursday 22nd October this week or talk to Ms. O'Connor.

Programme	Workshops	Time	Room
DL825 - BSc (Hons) in Applied Psychology	Introduction to Psychology Usability	​11am - 12.30pm 12.30pm - 2pm	A012 A012
DL836 - BSc (Hons) in Creative Computing	Programming  Web Design	1pm - 2.15pm 1pm - 2.15pm	A127 A117
DL835 - BSc (Hons) in Creative Media Technologies	Building and Making	2.45pm - 4pm	A217

UCD Business Open Evening

UCD Quinn School of Business are hosting an open evening this coming Monday 19th October from 6-8 for all prospective students. Please see here for details

Engineering - Graduate Shortages

Please see this article for an interesting read on graduate shortages in Civil Engineering

Leaving Cert RE Revision - Maynooth Uni

Attention all 6th yr RE students - Maynooth University are hosting a RE Revision day on Saturday 17th October from 9.30-3.30. See details here

DIT - School of Creative Arts Open Day and Portfolio Clinic

Any students thinking of applying to any of DIT's Creative Arts courses (Fine Art, Photography, Visual Communication Design, Interior Design, Visual Merchandising and Display) please see here for details of their Open Day and Portfolio Clinic on Thursday 26th November.

UCD Law evening

Attention 5th and 6th years - UCD are hosting their Law information evening next Tuesday 13th October from 6-8pm. Students must register to attend and can bring up to 2 guest (usually parents/guardians or an older sibling). Please see this link to register

TY Work Experience Opportunities

!!Three Unique Opportunities!!

1. Several TY Work Experience opportunities are available in Trinity mainly in the Science and Computer Science faculties. Please see this link for further info and how to apply.
2. For anyone with an interest in Business there is also an opportunity to gain experience in marketing and sales and social media with Stein Study. Please see here
3. Also anyone with an interest in taking part in work experience with RTE should give their name to Ms. O'Connor or Mr. Ferguson. This programme is run on a lottery based system so not everyone who applies is guaranteed a place

UCD - National Maths Week Event

UCD are hosting an evening of Maths talks and lectures on Tuesday 13th October from 6-8pm. All students welcome but would probably be very beneficial to any 6th years with an interest in studying Maths or Statistics at 3rd level. Please see this link for further info

TY, 5th and 6th years - FREE technological, cultural and scientific learning opportunity

Slingshot Academy 2015/2016, is a chance to think about the year 2035 and your future. The programme will feature 8 fantastic speaker — some college students, and some adults — who will consider the future from all angles — the technological, the cultural, the scientific and more. Over lunch and during breaks, you’ll participate in hands-on demos and workshops on what your future might hold. 

6th years - UCAS

6th years thinking of applying to college in the UK should see Ms. O'Connor asap. Particularly for courses in Oxford, Cambridge or if they are thinking of studying Medicine, Dentistry and/or Veterinary - the deadline for these courses is October 15th!! Any other courses have a deadline of January 15th. Please see this link for an overview of the UCAS application process

UCAS Medicine, Oxford or Cambridge

Any 6th years thinking of applying to Medicine in the UK, Scotland or Northern Ireland or to any course in Oxford or Cambridge must see Ms. O'Connor to apply asap...the closing date is the 15th October. Also, registration to sit the UKCAT (the UK equivalent to the HPAT) for entry to Medicine in UK Universities closes on Tuesday September 22nd. The UKCAT exam can be taken in Ireland in Dublin city. Please see this link for info.

Higher Options 2015

Attention 6th years... The higher options conference on Wednesday is a huge event with information  stands from many top universities and colleges in Ireland, UK, Europe and the US. Plan your time well. We are meeting there between 9-9.30. Please see here for a list of talks you can go to, including CAO, applying to the UK through UCAS and info on different career areas. There is a map here to show you where particular stands and talks are, and the food area! Please make sure to ask lots of questions and have a few colleges/courses in mind before going in. Any questions see Ms. O'Connor

Junior Certificate Results

A big well done to all the TY students who received their Junior Cert results on Wednesday.

Welcome Back!

A warm welcome back to school to all students, teachers, parents and the whole school community. I'm looking forward to working with you all this year. Wishing you all the best for a happy, productive and fun new school year. Keep an eye on this blog and Twitter for all Career Guidance news and events throughout the year! Check out the Open Days info on the menu to the right for details of this year's main Open Day events. Finally, best of luck to all our last year's 6th years who are moving towards bigger and better things and a special welcome and best of luck to all new first year students embarking on their studies in CBC Monkstown.

Round two

Yesterday you may or may not have been made a second round offer from the CAO for a course on your list of preferences. Fewer than 3000 offers were made in total so if you were not offered anything this is not out of the ordinary. If you were offered something you can choose between your initial offer and this second choice and you have a week to do so. The deadline for acceptance of the offer is Wednesday 2nd September at 17.15 on www.cao.ie. If you want to to stick with your first round offer you do not have to do anything. If you still have no offer your options are to look at the CAO Available Places list, Direct Entry routes that some colleges may be offering or a PLC place with links on to a course you may like to take up next year. You can contact me at cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com if you need any advice. Best of luck

First Round Offers Deadline

The deadline for accepting first round CAO offers is today at 17.15. If you haven't accepted your offer it is HIGHLY advisable that you do so as you may not be offered anything on Round Two or later. Round Two will issue this Thursday 27th at 6am online and through the post. There are always other options if you're still unhappy like Available Places which you can apply to through your CAO account and Direct Entry courses. Please get in touch if you need any advice cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com 

CAO Available Places - no points needed

For anyone who has got no CAO offer to date or an offer they are not happy with, CAO have a list of available places for which you can apply to once you have met the minimum entry requirements for that course. See the most up to date list here. To apply for one of these courses go to CAO. Log in using your original details and select one of the Available Place courses. If you need any assistance please contact me at cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com

Offers - First Round

You should have been able to access your offers since 6am this morning by logging in to your CAO account on www.cao.ie. It is advisable that you accept your first round offer even if you are not happy with it. The deadline for accepting your first round offer is Monday 24th August at 17.15.  Second round offers will be issued next week on Thirsday 27th August from 6am online. There is a possibility you may get offered a course higher on your list and then you can decide to whether you would rather keep your first round place or take up the new offer.
A slight change of plan this morning - I will now be available from 10.30-11.45 in the school if anyone needs to discuss anything offers or points related. Apologies for any inconvenience. I am still available anytime by email at cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com

Offers Monday 17th 6am!

The first round of offers will be available online at www.cao.ie from 6am this Monday, 17th August. Best of luck to you all. This link explains the offers process very clearly. If anyone is unsure of what route they'll be able to take this link is very useful and includes information on CAO Vacant Places which you may be able to take up without the necessary points. I will be available in school that morning from 9.45-11.30 if you would like to discuss anything offers related. You can also email me on cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com

Well done 6th years!

A huge well done to all 6th years on their Leving Cert results today. Enjoy the celebrations and take care of yourselves! Round one offers available Monday morning at 6am online. Best of luck. Ill be available in school that day to discuss offers and any other related queries :)

Results- very helpful booklet

A very helpful and informative booklet for student and parents has been produced by Brian Wall about the results and ALL potential options and routes. It is available to download on the IGC website here

Exam Results and Offers Advice Line

The Examination Helpline 2015, hosted by the National Parents’ Council Post Primary (NPCpp) will open tomorrow, Wednesday, 12th August to offer advice, information and support to Leaving Certificate students receiving their exam results. 

Those seeking advice, information or reassurance can contact the Helpline on 1800 265 165 and speak to experienced,professionally-trained guidance counsellors.  All queries on third level courses, such as the points system, rechecks, repeats, CAO procedures, SUSI queries, apprenticeships and further training options will be dealt with in a professional and confidential manner.

The opening hours of FREEPHONE HELPLINE 2015 are: 

Wednesday and Thursday, 12th snd 13th August: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m

Friday 14th August: 10am-1pm

Monday and Tuesday, 17th and 18th August: 8am-7pm

Wednesday, 19th August: 8am-1pm

To complement the Freephone Exam 2015 Helpline, Independent.ie will be running an interactive CAO blog on Wednesday August 12 from 10am and on Monday August 17 from 8am,  Members of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors will also be staffing this,  answering all queries and concerns around the results and further and higher education and career options.

You can send questions directly to the blog itself, tweet queries via #IndoSubmit or send emails to contact@independent.ie. 

SUSI Grants Help

You can contact SUSI by phone on 0761 08 7874, email support@susi.ie or on their Twitter page by Direct Message.

Leaving Cert Results Day and Round 1 Offers

Leaving Cert Results Day is this coming Wednesday 12th August and Round 1 Offers are Monday 17th August. I will be available in the school from 9-10.30 this Wednesday if anyone needs anything in relation to their results and potential offers. I will also be available on Monday 17th from 10-11.30 to discuss offers. I will also be available to talk on the phone if you want to call the school or you can email cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com. Here are useful links to results and offers for you and your parents

DCU VIP Fresher Competition - €10,000!

Anyone who has applied to DCU is eligible to apply for VIP Fresher competition, a prize worth €10,000! . Here's the link for more info and to enter

SUSI - final call for grants

To all 6th yrs who think they might be eligible for a grant... 

> The national student grant awarding body, SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland), is urging students who have yet to submit their applications for student grant funding for the 2015/2016 academic year to do so now. The deadline for applications is Saturday, August 1st.

> SUSI encourages students to visit its redesigned, and more user-friendly, website www.susi.ie to review information about the eligibility criteria for student grant funding, including its online 'grant eligibility reckoner' where students can quickly and easily self-assess whether they may be entitled to grant. 

> Students are also encouraged to use their own SUSI 'online application tracker', where they can track the progress of their application and confirm that SUSI has received their documentation without having to contact SUSI directly.

Change of Mind CAO

Well done to all on getting through the exams! Just a reminder that CAO Change of Mind is still available until Wednesday 1st July at 17.15. Take a look at this link before you change your mind. Remember your genuine order of preference for the course you want is paramount! Don't put something ahead of something else just because it was higher points last year. These tips will help! Also I hope you're all enjoying some well deserved down time now. Well done and happy days :)

DIT virtual open day -CAO change of mind

DIT are hosting an online open day with q&a sessions about their courses in hospitality, tourism, leisure and events. Please see this link for details 

CAO change of mind events

Some universities and ITs are hosting CAO change of mind events on campus and online before  the change of mind deadline of July 1st at 17.15. If you are still undecided on your order of preference no harm in going to some events to get more information to inform your decisions. See links below for various events
DCU
ITTallaght
IADT
Maynooth University
UCC

New CAO courses for September 2015

IT Tralee have announced several new course on offer for entry this September. See here for more info

6th and 3rd years

Wishing all the 6th years and 3rd years the very best of luck with the exams tomorrow and over the next few weeks. It's been a long road but remember you have done your bit.... And you are finally here! It's also important to remember that what you have to offer the world is not only based on how well you do in the exams but on the wonderful young people that you are. There will be many opportunities awaiting you beyond the leaving cert no matter! Don't forget...

Maynooth University Maths Exam

Maynooth will hold Maths Entry exam for students hoping to do Electronic Engineering but who don't achieve HC3. See HERE

CIT Special Maths Exam

Cork IT are also holding a separate Maths exam. See here for details

UL Special Mathematics Entrance Examination 2015

University of Limerick Special Mathematics Entrance Examination 2015

Thursday, 20^th August, 2015 (2.30pm-5.30pm)
This examination is for students who achieve sufficient CAO entry points and satisfy all other entrance requirements, but who do not achieve the requisite grade in Mathematics in the Leaving Certificate for Faculty of Science and Engineering undergraduate degrees.  Candidates who pass this special examination are deemed to have satisfied the Mathematics entry requirement.  It will be corrected on a pass/fail basis and no additional points will be awarded.
Application form to be sent together with a non-refundable fee of €40. The application form will be available from UL nearer the Leaving Certificate results. See here for more details

New course in UCD - Financial Mathematics (Science)

UCD have added a new degree called Financial Mathematics to the DN200 Science common entry course. It is within the Mathematical, Physical and Geological Sciences (MPG) option. Financial Mathematics will be available for all students starting the UCD DN200 Science course in September 2015.
It is particularly suitable for students who are interested in a degree in Mathematics and who would like to pursue a career within the financial sector. The web page for this new subject is at www.ucd.ie/myucd/financialmathematics and the subject career pathway is online at http://www.ucd.ie/science/courses/downloads/UCDScience_Financial_Mathematics.pdf.
If you have any queries about this subject please email Professor Gary McGuire at head_sms@ucd.ie or telephone Mr Gary Dunne on 01 716 2637.

IADT CAO Open Evening

IADT is hosting a CAO Change of Mind Open Evening on Wednesday, 27^th May 2015 from 4pm to 6pm. 5^th year students are also welcome to visit in order to start exploring their options at IADT.

Here is a list of the talks that will take place on the day:

Time               Talk                                                                                                                

4.30pm            Faculty of Enterprise and Humanities Talk                          

                        (Entrepreneurship; Arts Management; English, Media & Cultural Studies)

4.30pm            Applied Psychology Talk                                                                  

4.50pm            Creative Media Technologies Talk                                       

5pm                 Departments of Design and Visual Arts & Film and Media (including Portfolio   

                         Requirements) Talk                            

5.10pm           Creative Computing Talk                                                      

Games Design DIT

DIT Aungier Street will host an info day from 2-4pm this Wednesday 20th May. Any student in TY, 5th or 6th year should consider going if interested in Gaming. For more info and booking please see this link

Skills shortage prediction

This new report indicates a shortage of skills that will be needed within the next five years, including engineering, languages, ICT and specific quantitative skills

6th years CAO Alert Lists

You have already received this information in paper form with your CAO Statement of Application but here is a link to the Alert Lists published. An Alert List is used to provide updates of new courses offered, cancelled course, changes to course entry requirements and other relevant changes to admissions related information.

6th years CAO Change of Mind and Offers info

For all 6th years and parents here's a info sheet on CAO Change of Mind and Offers stages.

Attn. 3rd years - TY Work Experience 2015/16

If any prospective TY students for 2015/16 are interested in applying for work experience with the Irish Times please to send an email expressing your interest, plus any other relevant information as to why you would like to gain experience with the Irish Times, to hrdept@irishtimes.com in August 2015.  They will review and respond as soon as possible. See Ms. O’Connor for assistance if needed

5th years NUIG summer school

NUI Galway is holding a series of Summer Schools for students interested in studying at the University. This is an excellent opportunity for prospective students to get a real taste of University life and to enjoy a wide range of hands-on practical activities. Book online here

6th Years

Any 6th years who would like an appointment anytime tomorrow or next week to discuss CAO or anything else relating to study, exams or college please feel free to contact me in the school on the school number or at cbcmonkstownguidance@outlook.com. Wishing you all the best of luck with everything... and remember in the words of Doc Brown....

Aiming Higher - Parents' guide to third level

University of Limerick and the HEA have published a guide with the purpose of giving parents a practical understanding of the higher education system in Ireland and to help them to support their son or daughter in making informed decisions around third level courses and career choices. Please see the link for a copy of the guide

Useful websites for study skills and revision notes

Please see this link for a list of useful websites for study skills and notes

5th years - UCD Computer Science Summer School

UCD are hosting a Computer Science Summer School for 5th year students. Anyone who might be interested please see this link for further info and booking or talk to Ms. O'Connor

TY Work Experience for 2015/16

Attention 3rd years. National Gallery is accepting applications for work experience during transition year now. See the website for application form

IADT Department of Technology and Psychology Student Showcase 13th May

IADT Department of Technology and Psychology are hosting their Student Showcase on the 13th May. All TY, 5th and 6th years welcome. See below for detail. Anyone interested email elena.somoza@iadt.ie or see Ms. O'Connor 

SUSI Grant Application System Open

Any 6th years who think they may be eligible for a grant next year can now apply online at SUSI . If you want to check whether you should apply see here for info. If you still aren't sure please see Ms. O'Connor

Computer Science Trinity

Computer Science in Trinity has been ranked amongst the top 100 Computer Science degrees in the world and number 1 in Ireland. See this article for more info

CAO Change of Mind

Attention 6th years, CAO has opened today for Course Change of Mind. Please see this short video on how to go about the process. Please see Ms. O'Connor for any queries or guidance

UCAS application opening dates for Entry 2016

UCAS will open applications for courses beginning 2016 on May 27th. Any 5th years thinking of applying to the UK please see Ms. O'Connor for an appointment

CAO Parent's Guide

A link to the CAO Parent's Guide has been added permanently to the Blog on the right hand side menu . Please see the blog page for further info on assisting your son in his CAO application and offers

Home Stretch Study Tips

Well done to all the 6th years who completed their Leaving Cert Oral Exams and Music Practicals over the past two weeks! Now that they're over here's a few tips on how to study and focus for the last stretch before the written and aural papers in June.

CAO Statement of Application

6th years - if you applied to the CAO you should receive your statement of application in the post very soon. It is important to check that the course you entered are correct. If you haven't entered any courses as yet you can do so from Tuesday May 5th via the online system at www.cao.ie. Please see Ms. O'Connor for an appointment to discuss options if you are still unsure about course choices

Late application deadline for CAO and change of mind

Anyone who has not yet registered and applied for CAO at all as yet be aware that the last date for doing so is May 1st at 17.15. See here for info and advice and see Ms. O'Connor to talk options.

Change of mind doesn't open until May 5th so anyone who would like appointment to discuss choices please see me over next few weeks

NCAD entry 2016 portfolio guidelines

NCAD have issued their Portfolio guidelines for entry 2016, particularly relevant for any 5th years interested in applying

5th years NUI Galway Summer School

NUI Galway are hosting Summer School with days in Nursing, Law, Engineering, Computing, Business, Science. See www.nuigalway.ie/summer-schools for more info

Institute for Chinese Studies at UCD Open Day

Irish Institute for Chinese Studies at UCD Open Day, 9th of May, 2015. See http://www.ucd.ie/china/ for info on all course on offer with Chinese, including Law and Business degrees.

Venue: UCD Sutherland School of Law, UCD Belfield, Dublin

Please see Ms. O'Connor to book or for more info

Programme
10:30 - 11:00 Registration, Tea & Coffee
11:00 - 11:30 Welcome address and introduction to UCD undergraduate programmes with Chinese Studies
11:30 - 11:40 Scholarship Information
11:45 - 13:15 Language and Culture workshops (8 parallel sections) including:
11:45 - 12:15 1st Chinese Taster Course
12:30 - 13:00 2nd Chinese Taster Course

5th and 6th years - Maynooth University Open Day

Maynooth are holding a Spring Open Day this Saturday, 25th April from 10.30am-3pm. North Campus, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare. See the full list of undergraduate courses available here. Wide range from Law to Psychology to Business to Music Technology. There will be lecturers on hand to discuss the finer details of all courses and to help you to decide if a course is suitable for you. There will also be a series of  lectures on a diverse range of subjects from psychology, to primary teaching, to careers and subject choice.

5th yrs - IADT Portfolio/Summer courses

Attention 5th years, IADT are holding Art and Animation portfolio preparation courses during the summer on several dates. Please see the link for info

Trinity Guide to Leaving Cert Study

Check out Trinity's guide to LC study with really useful links to Skoool.ie specific subject guides and other very useful documents to help with your study. Keep on truckin'...