Next Steps After Results: Northern Ireland’s FE Colleges Open Their Doors

As students across Northern Ireland await their GCSE and A-Level results this August, the region’s six Further Education (FE) Colleges, including SERC, are encouraging young people to explore the wide range of options available to them in both further and higher education.  

Each year, thousands of learners take their next steps with the support of the FE Colleges, which offer high-quality education and training in a varied vocational and academic areas. Whether you’re aiming for university, employment, or developing a specific skillset, there is a route for you.  

What Are My Options?
Students receiving results this August may be uncertain about their future. FE Colleges provide a range of pathways tailored to suit diverse needs, including:  

Level 2 and Level 3 Full-Time Courses: Ideal for those who want to specialise in areas such as health and social care, engineering, IT, business, and more.  

Apprenticeships and Higher-Level Apprenticeships (HLAs): Combine employment with study, allowing students to earn while they learn in industries such as construction, finance, and digital technology.  

Access to University Courses: For mature learners or those without traditional qualifications, Access courses offer a route to higher education.  

Foundation Degrees and Degrees: Delivered in partnership with local universities, these programmes offer a university-level experience closer to home in many subject areas.  

College Careers Advisors are available throughout the summer to provide personalised guidance on which option may be best based on individual results and career goals.    

How and when to enrol on a course at SERC starting September 2025.

Upcoming Open Days
To help students make informed choices, Northern Ireland’s FE Colleges will be hosting a series of Open Days during August. This is your chance to take a tour of their facilities, meet lecturers and learn more about courses and student life.

At SERC:

If you have got your A Level or Level 3 course results - Come along to SERC Full-Time Higher Education Enrolment Days on Thursday 14 August, 9am - 5pm and Friday 15 August. 9am - 3pm at our Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campus. Read more.

If you have got your GCSE results - come along to SERC Full-Time Further Education, Traineeship and Apprenticeship Enrolment Days on Thursday 21 August, 9am -5pm and Friday 22 August, 9am - 3pm. Read More.

To find out more about any of these events check SERC website for confirmed dates and registration details.

Waiting for results can be a stressful time, but it’s important for students and their families to know that there are always options available. Northern Ireland’s FE Colleges are here to provide support, advice, and quality learning opportunities that help build bright futures.    

About Northern Ireland's Further Education Sector:
The further education sector in Northern Ireland comprises six regional colleges, offering a wide range of academic, professional, and technical courses. With a focus on employability, innovation, and lifelong learning, these institutions play a crucial role in developing the skills and knowledge needed for the region's economic growth and individual success.