2. Institute of Technology Tallaght  Countering non-progression among mature students: Certificate in Preparatory Study for Higher Education Started in 2009 Each year 70-100 mature students register 10 credit, NFQ Level 6 Special Purpose Award Free to participants (funding by ETB, South Dublin County P’ship etc) Core subjects: study skills, Maths, ICT, Academic English Electives: up to 12 hours in 3-4 subjects Over last 2-3 years participants have begun completing their major awards: Participants universally positive about experience Disproportionate number of participants end up as prize winners, top of their class etc.

3. Institute of Technology Tallaght  Currently, 18 year olds who are not in a position to access higher education via CAO are often not able to access it until they reach 23 (when they become mature).  ITT developing an equivalent preparatory programme for 18-23 year olds.  Supporting participation needs stronger synergies between providers for FET and HE.