The Higher Education Access Route is now available to students attending all secondary schools in Ireland, according to new Louth VEC member, Cllr James Carroll.

“Up until now the Higher Education Access Route has only been available to students attending DEIS schools but it is now available to students in the 730 secondary schools around the country,” Cllr Carroll said.

“This scheme broadens access opportunities for people from disadvantaged backgrounds in County Louth wishing to go on to third level education. It has been working very effectively since 2000 and the numbers of participating students have increased from 175 in its first year to 682 this year.”

“This expansion of the scheme is in recognition of the fact that education disadvantage affects a cross section of people across our local communities and cannot be confined to certain areas.”

“Under the Higher Education Access Route, the seven universities, DIT and the seven colleges of education allocate a quota of places on a reduced points basis across all academic areas. Students who secure one of these places are offered a range of academic and personal supports while at college.”

“This year for the first time school leavers who wish to apply for the scheme can do so online as part of the CAO application process. Applications open from November 1 and a dedicated website www.accesscollege.ie has also been launched to provide information about the scheme.”

“I am delighted that this scheme is now open to all students. I hope that it will benefit many students from Louth in years to come”, he added.

ENDS