National Learning Network – Hollyhill Cork City
At NLN in Hollyhill we provide a range of free courses to people who have had an accident, illness, injury or have a disability and extra support needs.
Our supported training courses are tailored to each student’s needs, to help them to build their confidence while getting practical job-seeking skills to help them get a job or go on to further training. If you are looking for a truly inclusive and person-centred student experience then you have come to the right place.
We specialise in working with people who need extra support with education and training leading to their progression to employment, further and higher education and/or a better quality of life in their own community Our range of courses recognise that people will be coming to education and employment training from a number of different starting points.
If you are choosing a course because of progression opportunities we provide excellent progression pathways to College of FET Tramore Road/Morrison Island/Douglas Street, Kinsale College of Further Education, Mallow College of Further Education, Cork Training Centre, MTU, UCC and UL.
For more information on the specific courses available at NLN in Hollyhill see below or call the centre today.
Contact: Eugene Higgins
Address: Hollymount Industrial Estate, Hollyhill, Cork
Tel: 021 430 0144
Email: hollyhill@nln.ie
Catering and Culinary Skills
Turn Your Passion for Cooking into a Career with Our Food Industry Course
Are you passionate about cooking and ready to take your skills to the next level? This Food Industry Course is designed to equip you with the practical skills in food preparation and production, ensuring a smooth transition into a rewarding career in the food industry. Whether you dream of working in professional kitchens or starting your own culinary venture, this course gives you the hands-on experience and knowledge needed to thrive in the workplace.
Start your journey toward a successful career in the food industry today
Course Duration : Up to two years.
Our students love the practical elements which gives them hands on experience and helps build confidence by working in our on-site kitchen.
Certification: City & Guilds Level 2 Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Food Production and Cooking /Catering – City & Guilds Level 2 Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Kitchen Services (7132-14)
Computer Networks & Information Technology Systems
The Computer Networks and Information Technology Systems course is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to gain confidence with modern computerised architecture, software, and networking technologies that are used in desktops, servers and mobile computing systems.
This is achieved by covering a broad range of IT areas that provide grounding in computing technologies, eg. operating systems, hardware, Cybersecurity, networking, mobile devices and Troubleshooting.
It enables participants to obtain employment in the Information and Communications Technology sector, e.g. IT Support Administrator, PC Repair Technician, Networking Technician, IT Technical Support and or to progress onto a number of Further Education Training and Third Level courses. This course will help you to pass the CompTIA ITF+ U61 and Comptia A+ exam with flying colours.
This course can lead to a City and Guilds Major Award Certificate in ICT Systems and Principles or a Major Award in CompTIA A+ or CompTIA IT Fundamentals or CompTIA Cloud Essentials
Please contact NLN Hollyhill to find out which course best suits your needs.
Certification: Comptia A+ / Comptia ITF+ U61. City and Guilds Level 2 and 3 in ICT Systems and Principles (7540-12) (7540-13)
Directions
The Directions Course is an engaging and interactive programme designed to promote inclusion and support students in achieving their personal goals for an independent life. Through a mix of fun activities and practical guidance, we work closely with each student to help them meet their aspirations for independence.
The course covers a wide range of essential skills, including wellness promotion, self-advocacy, and independent living skills, empowering you to take control of your future and live life to the fullest. Sample work experience in an area you like.
Come and learn in a way that suits you while making new friendships in the process. Develop skills to improve your employment prospects.
Certification: Leading to QQI Level 3 Major Award
Employer Based Training
If you’re ready to enter the workforce, the Employer Based Training (EBT) course at National Learning Network (NLN) is designed to get you prepared. This programme helps students gain valuable practical skills by working with a host company in their area of interest. With the support of our experienced instructors, you’ll choose a work experience placement that suits your career goals and interests, ensuring the perfect match for your skillset and ambitions.
The course includes three days of on-the-job training with a local company, combined with two days of in-centre study, where you’ll focus on work-related modules to enhance your knowledge and prepare you for real-world challenges.
Our team is here to help you take the next step in your career. Build your confidence, gain specific and practical skills, and position yourself for success in your chosen field. We’ll help you find the right job that matches your strengths and goals.
Certification: QQI Level 4 Employment Skills (4M0857).
FOCUS
The Focus Course is a community-based, person-centered, and recovery-oriented wellness programme designed to help individuals recovering from mental health setbacks regain control of their lives. This free, 12-month course empowers students to develop the confidence and skills needed for a successful transition back into the community, with personalised support from dedicated key workers.
Our holistic approach helps you create an action plan tailored to your personal goals. We are passionate about empowering students to enhance their lives by focusing on:
- Personal and Social Development
- Community Inclusion
- Accessing Education, Training, and Work Opportunities
- Health and Wellbeing
- Maximising Independence
Through a blend of specialised modules, the Focus Course equips you with the tools to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling, independent life.
This course is delivered in our satellite centres in Midleton or Penrose Wharf (Cork city).
Certification: QQI level 3
Next Step
This course is designed to serve as a stepping stone for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), offering a path to further education through partnerships with institutions like UCC and CIT. Our aim is to support students in developing essential personal and social skills while providing opportunities to improve their quality of life.
Course Overview
Tailored for current or recent school leavers with a primary diagnosis of ASD, the course focuses on building independence through a blend of centre-based and community activities. Students will learn practical skills to enhance their ability to manage daily tasks independently, with support from experienced instructors, a Rehabilitation Officer, and a Rehabilitation Psychologist.
Course Duration: Up to 12 months.
Take the next step toward greater independence and unlock your potential with this empowering course. We have students who move internally within National Learning Network
to one of the many different areas of study as well as moving onto PLC, third level education and employment.
Pathways
Have you experienced a recent setback in life? Feeling overwhelmed, worried, or depressed? Whether you’re dealing with an injury, unemployment, or simply need support to make positive changes, the Pathways Programme is designed with your needs in mind.
Since 2000, Pathways has been helping individuals in the community gain structure and routine, offering the tools, training, and support to take control of their future. Our dedicated team provides personalized training to match you wherever you are in life. Whether you’re seeking further education, employment, or exploring other opportunities, Pathways is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Through this programme, you’ll benefit from improvements in your health, well-being, and social development, with a focus on community inclusion and maximising independence. We are passionate about empowering students to create positive, lasting changes.
Join Pathways today at our satellite centre in Mallow, Co. Cork, and take the first step towards a brighter future!
Retail Skills
Ready to build a successful career in the retail industry? Our Retail Course is designed to equip you with the essential skills needed for direct employment opportunities in this dynamic sector.
Course Overview
This flexible course is perfect for individuals who enjoy helping customers, solving problems, and providing top-notch service. You’ll receive hands-on training in areas like cash register operations and customer service skills that are valuable across various industries.
Throughout the course, students work closely with their instructor to gain practical work experience in a retail environment. With opportunities to complete up to two days a week on work placement in a city centre store or local supermarket, you’ll build the skills and confidence to succeed in any retail setting while functioning as part of a team.
Course Duration: Up to two years.
Take the first step towards a rewarding career in retail with real-world experience and tailored support!
Certification: QQI Level 4 Retail Skills (4M1998).
Better Barista
Are you a coffee enthusiast, aspiring barista, or interested in the hospitality sector? This brand new Specialty Coffee Module is designed just for you. Whether you’re passionate about coffee or eager to start a career in the thriving specialty coffee industry, this course will give you the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
We provide you with the tools, training, and support to help you advance and become a professional barista. Plus, with our strong connections to local business partners, you’ll have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through work placements, opening doors to exciting employment opportunities in the coffee and hospitality industries.
Take the first step towards your barista career today.
We will give you all the tools and support you need to keep progressing forward and become a professional barista. We work closely with our local business partners to offer you excellent employment opportunities through work placement.
Course duration: 12 weeks
Modules include: Barista Training, Food Safety Training (HACCP Level 1 Certificate), History & Production of Coffee, Operation of Equipment, Drink Building Techniques, Customer Service, Food Safety and Hygiene, Teamworking, Communications, Work Experience, CV and Interview Skills. Supported modules include: Allergen Awareness Training, Job-Seeking Skills, Personal Effectiveness, Stress Management
Certification: City & Guilds International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)
Skills 4 Life
The Skills 4 Life course is designed for young adults (age 16+) who want to build essential life skills while exploring exciting technologies. This flexible, strength-based programme offers a wide range of subjects, allowing you to develop valuable skills for both life and work in a fun, supportive environment.
Learn how to create with music production, photo editing, and video making, while also improving your social skills and career exploration. Whether you’re focusing on digital media skills or personal growth, the course is all about boosting your self-confidence and helping you thrive.
Make new friends, connect with our dedicated instructors, and follow us on Instagram at @skills4life.cork for a closer look at what we do!
Course Duration: Up to 18 months.
Join us today and start your journey toward a brighter future.
Modules include: Internet Skills, Digital Media, Career Preparation, Podcasting, Photo & Video Editing, Communication Skills, Music Production.
Supported Modules include: Creative Exploration, Confidence Building, Personal Development, Work Experience, Job Seeking Skills, Literacy & Numeracy Supports, Health & Wellbeing.
Certification: QQI Level 3 in Employability Skills (3M0935)