Install Findmino as an app for the best experience!
Sport & Leisure
Duration
1 years
Level
FET
Outlook
Growing
This course gives you a thorough grounding in the theory and practice of sports coaching across a range of sporting environments. You study coaching methodology, exercise science, sports psychology, and athlete development, building the knowledge to plan and deliver structured training sessions for individuals and groups. Safeguarding and child protection training is a core element, reflecting legal and ethical obligations when working with young people in Ireland. Practical placement hours in local clubs, schools, or community sports projects allow you to apply your skills in real settings under supervision. A typical week mixes classroom lectures, gym-based practical sessions, and time spent on placement, alongside assignments linked to governing-body awards from bodies such as Coaching Ireland, the GAA, FAI, or IRFU.
Entry typically requires a Leaving Certificate with a minimum of five subjects passed, including English; some colleges specify at least O4/O3 grades in a number of subjects. Subjects such as Physical Education, Biology, and Mathematics are useful but rarely compulsory at this level. Where Leaving Certificate results are not available, a QQI Level 5 award in Sport, Recreation, or a related area is a widely accepted alternative entry route, and many colleges actively encourage applications through this pathway. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply as mature students and are assessed on relevant experience in coaching, volunteering, or sport. Access schemes such as HEAR and DARE are available in participating colleges for applicants with socio-economic disadvantage or disabilities.
Demand for qualified sports coaches in Ireland has grown steadily, driven by government investment in community sport and physical activity through Sport Ireland and Local Sports Partnerships. Many graduates move into coaching roles quickly, though entry-level positions are often part-time or sessional, particularly in club and school settings. Progression to full-time roles is more achievable with further qualifications and governing-body coaching licences. The sector rewards those who combine their QQI award with specific governing-body certifications, such as FAI UEFA coaching licences or IRFU coaching pathways.
AI-powered performance analytics tools are increasingly used by coaches at all levels to track athlete load, movement patterns, and recovery, meaning graduates benefit from understanding how to interpret data dashboards. Video analysis software with AI features is now common even at community club level in Ireland, so familiarity with these tools is becoming an expected skill. However, the hands-on, relational nature of coaching means that human judgement, communication, and safeguarding responsibilities remain firmly with the coach and are not replaceable by technology.
Providers and indicative points are curated with AI support. Always double-check with the institution itself.
How to apply
Applications for QQI Level 6 Sports Coaching programmes at Colleges of Further Education are made directly to the individual college or through www.fetchcourses.ie, the national FET portal managed by SOLAS. Entry requirements are typically a Leaving Certificate or QQI Level 5 qualification in a related area, though mature applicants and those with relevant coaching experience are also considered.
This QQI Level 6 course builds on the fundamentals of hairdressing to develop advanced technical and business skills. You study complex colour...
1 years
FETA QQI Level 6 Beauty Therapy programme gives you hands-on training in a wide range of treatments including facials, body wraps, waxing, massage,...
1 years
Other studies, careers, ideas and blogs you might not know yet.
We use functional cookies and — with your consent — cookies for preferences, statistics and marketing.