Access

The Access service at AIT supports the learner through the course of their time in third level. This includes provision of information to the prospective learner in advance of matriculation and continuing support throughout the duration of the college career. As well as general Access issues, if encountered, the Access Officer is available to act as a liaison between the student and other individuals and agencies as appropriate. The office offers a range of specific students supports briefly introduced in the following sections.

Student Assistance Fund (SAF)

 

 

This important initiative administered by the access office is the student assistance/access fund.  This fund gives special regard to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and to those who find themselves disadvantaged by life events.  This fund forms an integral part of the support for such students.

 

 

 

 

The Foundation Certificate course

 

 

The Foundation Certificate is intended for adult learners who wish to return to study after a break in their formal educational experience and who may not have benefited fully from, or have access to, previous educational experiences.  This course provides an effective introduction for adult learners embarking on a third-level course.

Click here to read more. Click here to print off Foundation cert course application form.

 

 

 

 

Information and Initiatives for Prospective Learners

 

 

Initiatives that aim to encourage interest in third-level education among both primary and secondary school students are as follows:

 

 

 

  • Primary School Programmes

 

 

After Schools Programme in collaboration with Westmeath Community Development.

 

 

This programme combines a homework club, social activities and a healthy snack using AIT campus facilities.

 

 

 

  • Secondary School Programmes

 

 

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    • Saturday Maths Programme

 

 

Given the importance of Leaving Certificate Mathematics for progression to third level education, AIT offers a Saturday Maths programme providing Leaving Certificate students with extra weekend tuition.  Students attend classes in ordinary level maths from January to June and those at risk of failing are prioritized for involvement in this programme.

This programme is run in collaboration with local secondary schools.

Music and Technology Programme

Computer Games Development

 

 

 

 

 

Adult and Community Links

 

 

The Access Office at AIT is also committed to communicating its message to the adult community at large.  This is achieved through, the Foundation Course, outreach activities, such as visits and talks to community groups, and participation in local steering groups.