Your questions, answered plainly
The questions we hear most, grouped by topic. If yours is not here, ask it directly and a person will answer.
Applying
How do I apply for a course?
Send your details through the contact page or ring 087 686 5034. We talk through course choice and eligibility first, then guide you through the application and any vetting paperwork. Nothing is committed until you are sure.
Can I talk to someone before deciding?
Yes, and we would rather you did. Pick “I have a question” on the contact form, or just ring. Choosing the right course matters more than choosing quickly.
How quickly will I hear back?
Within two working days, usually sooner. [VERIFY response time] If it is urgent, ring 087 686 5034 during office hours.
When do courses start?
Intake dates vary by course and year, so the reliable answer is the current one: ask us for the next intake and we will tell you the dates and the deadline to be ready for it.
Courses and study
Which course should I choose?
Start from where you want to end up. Healthcare Support is the direct route into care work. Nursing Studies suits learners aiming for a nursing degree. Intellectual Disability Practice is specialist support work. Level 6 Supervisory Management is for experienced staff stepping up. The courses page compares all four side by side.
Are the courses fully online?
No, deliberately. Theory runs through live online Zoom classes you can join from anywhere in Ireland; practical skills are taught in person on classroom days, with a work placement in a real setting. Care work is hands-on, so the training is too.
Can I study while working full time?
Most of our learners do exactly that. Classes run on a set schedule you can plan shifts and family around, and the course pace is designed for adults with full lives. Ask for the current timetable before you commit and we will tell you honestly whether it fits.
Does Nursing Studies make me a nurse?
No. Nursing in Ireland requires a degree. Nursing Studies builds the foundation and supports an application to nursing programmes where the receiving college’s entry requirements are met. The course page explains the pathway honestly.
What does a QQI major award mean?
A major award is the full qualification at a level on the National Framework of Qualifications, made up of modules worth 120 credits. All four of our courses are full major awards, nationally recognised, not single subjects or private certificates. The student information page translates the rest of the jargon.
Eligibility and vetting
What are the entry requirements?
For the Level 5 courses: Leaving Certificate, a Level 4 Certificate or equivalent in a relevant area. For the Level 6 course: a Level 5 Certificate or equivalent, with relevant healthcare experience supporting your application. Mature applicants are assessed individually. Full detail on the student information page.
Do I need Garda vetting?
Vetting is required for healthcare placements, and we guide you through it as part of enrolment. You do not need to arrange anything before enquiring. One exception worth flagging early: if you have lived outside Ireland for six months or more, international vetting may also be needed and it takes longer.
I have been out of education for years. Will I manage?
You will be in good company: adults returning to education are most of who we teach. Study skills support, live classes where you can ask anything, and tutors who expect rusty essay-writing are all part of the design. The first assignment is the hardest, and you will not face it alone.
My qualifications are from outside Ireland. Can I still apply?
Often, yes. Overseas qualifications and experience are considered individually, and recognition of prior learning may apply. English proficiency around CEFR B2 or higher is recommended since everything runs in English. Tell us your background when you enquire and you will get a straight answer.
Fees and practicalities
What do the courses cost?
Fees depend on the course and intake, so we quote directly: request current fees and you will get the full figure in writing, what it includes and the payment options, before committing to anything. [VERIFY wording once fees policy confirmed]
Where do classes and placements happen?
We are based in Ballyduff, Co. Waterford. Online classes run live over Zoom from anywhere in Ireland; classroom days happen in person; placements take place in real healthcare settings. [VERIFY placement locations wording]
What happens if I fail an assessment?
There are documented procedures for repeats, rechecks and appeals, all set out in our QQI-agreed quality assurance manual. One result does not end your course, and the process is written down rather than decided on the day.
About B&B Nursing
Who runs B&B Nursing?
Margaret Byrne, who founded the company in Ballyduff in 2005 and still leads the teaching. Family-run, not a franchise. The longer story is on the about page.
Are you QQI accredited?
Yes. All four courses are full QQI major awards, delivered under a quality assurance system agreed with QQI since 2005. The complete QA manual is published for anyone to read.
Which counties do you serve?
Learners join us from Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Tipperary and Cork, and the live online classes welcome students from anywhere in Ireland.
Ask it directly. A person will answer.
No question is too small or too obvious. The ones people are embarrassed to ask are usually the most important.