National Learning Network – Letterkenny
At NLN in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal we provide a range of free vocational and rehabilitative training courses to people who have had an accident, illness, injury or have a disability and extra support needs.
We offer a range of vocational training courses in Letterkenny, all fully funded through the Donegal Educational Training Board (DETB). Our courses are designed to be accessible to individuals aged 16 and over, providing a welcoming and supportive learning environment for students of all backgrounds and abilities.
With a strong focus on flexibility, our programmes operate on a continual intake basis, allowing new students to join at any time of the year. This ensures that learners can start their journey whenever they are ready, without having to wait for a specific enrollment period.
To enhance the learning experience, we provide personalised training plans tailored to meet each student’s unique needs and goals. Our dedicated team is committed to guiding and supporting learners every step of the way, helping develop essential skills and confidence.
Beyond the classroom, we believe in fostering a vibrant and engaging learning community. We organise a variety of social events and activities outside the centre, creating opportunities for students to connect, build friendships, and enjoy new experiences.
Explore our range of programmes below and take the next step toward achieving your educational and career goals!
Contact: Dawn Patterson
Address: Rossview Business Park, Port Road, Letterkenny, Donegal, F92 Y96F
Tel: 0749 168288
Email: letterkenny@nln.ie
Jobstart
Duration: 18 months – 30 hrs per week
This course is designed as a stepping-stone to take you from where you are now to where you want to be whether that is Further Education, training or employment. It is ideal to try different areas of work that you may not have thought of previously or that may be suggested by your instructor.
It is an ideal course for those early school leavers or those who are considering a change in career direction. Students are supported in their personal development, confidence building, developing social skills, independent living skills and job-seeking skills. Work experience is a key part of the course and students are given a range of work placements and encouraged to explore further or higher education options.
Modules include: Personal & Interpersonal Skills, Digital Media and Career Preparation to mention a few.
Each of our programmes offer a range of in-house student supports to ensure that every learner is provided with the best opportunities to reach their potential.
Certification: QQI Level 3 Employability Skills (3M0935)
Retail Skills
Duration: 18 months – 30 hrs per week
A flexible course that is designed to enable students to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to get a job in the retail sector.
It offers a mix of on-the-job and in-centre training. Skills in the workplace are gained through a combination of practical demonstration, instruction and supervised practice where the course instructor supports both the student and the employer.
Students progress through the programme at a pace which is suited to their individual needs and abilities. Modules include: Retail Sales Techniques, Communications, Information Technology Skills, Career Planning. Each of our programmes offer a range of in-house student supports to ensure that every learner is provided with the best opportunities to reach their potential.
Certification: QQI Level 4 Retail Skills (4M1998).
Information Technology and Business
Duration: 22 months – 30 hrs per week
This is a versatile course that provides learners with the skills, qualifications and experience necessary to branch out into a range of career paths.
Work experience is an essential element of the course allowing learners to experience different workplace environments while developing their skills academically. The programme also supports students in their personal and social development, confidence building, interview and presentation skills.
An ideal course for those planning to progress to further and higher education, entrepeneurship and a range of career opportunities.
Modules include: Information and Communications Systems, Spreadsheets, Team-working, Customer Service, Information and Administration. Each of our programmes offer a range of in-house student supports to ensure that every learner is provided with the best opportunities to reach their potential.
Certification: QQI Level 5 Office Administration (5M1997).
Rehabilitative Training
NLN offers three rehabilitative training (RT) programmes—Access, Kickstart, and Prospects—designed to support individuals at different stages of their personal and skill development journey. These programmes run for up to three years, providing a structured yet flexible approach to help learners build confidence, gain independence, and explore future opportunities at their own pace.
In addition, we offer a Day Service programme, Living for Life, tailored for those seeking continued personal growth and greater inclusion within their community.
For those interested in gaining qualifications, certification is available at Levels 1, 2, and 3, offering clear pathways to further education or employment while ensuring accessibility and flexibility.
Referrals to these programmes are typically made through an Occupational Guidance Officer or HSE Day Services Support Guidance—our team is here to guide you through the process every step of the way.
Each student is supported by a keyworker through a Person-Centred Plan, ensuring individual needs and goals are met.
Our programmes include a wide range of activities and training opportunities, such as:
- Community Mapping
- Travel Training
- Technology Skills
- Healthy Lifestyle & Wellbeing
- Budgeting
- Advocacy & Self-Representation
- Life Skills Development
- Personal Decision-Making
- Job Readiness Training & Work Experience
- Confidence & Self-Esteem Building
- Communication & Relationship Skills
- And much more!
These activities are designed to empower individuals and support their personal development, whether within the community or in the centre itself.
