Exciting times at Kerry College, with courses responding directly to latest industry needs
Kerry College’s outdoor education includes programmes such as Outdoor Activity Instructor, Surf Instructor and SCUBA Diving Instructor.
Kerry College is fast becoming one of Ireland’s most progressive providers of Further Education and Training, offering learners across County Kerry the opportunity to build practical skills, explore new career pathways and engage with education that is firmly aligned with industry needs.
With campuses throughout the county, Kerry College is committed to delivering accessible, high-quality learning that responds to the evolving needs of learners, communities and employers alike.
Among its most distinctive locations is Kerry College Killorglin Campus, uniquely situated on the shores of Caragh Lake. Long recognised for its leadership in outdoor education, Killorglin Campus has built a strong reputation for immersive, hands-on learning. In recent years, however, it has undergone an exciting transformation, expanding its offering to include programmes in environmental education, wellbeing, youth work and community development.
Outdoor education remains at the heart of the campus, with well-established programmes such as Outdoor Activity Instructor, Surf Instructor and SCUBA Diving Instructor continuing to attract learners from across Ireland and beyond. These courses not only open doors to careers in adventure tourism and recreation but also foster a strong sense of environmental responsibility and a deep connection with the natural world.
Now, Killorglin Campus is entering a new phase of expansion. The establishment of a new Town Campus in Killorglin marks a significant milestone, broadening access to education and creating clear progression routes for learners. The facility offers QQI Level 3 and 4 Pathway programmes, providing vital stepping stones for those returning to education or beginning their journey towards further education, training or employment.
Aligned with the increasing demand for community-focused careers, the introduction of the Youth Work programme is another key development. Designed to equip learners with the skills, knowledge and values needed to support and empower young people, the programme reflects both national demand for qualified youth work practitioners and Kerry College’s commitment to community development.
A significant area of growth for the campus has been the development of programmes that respond directly to emerging industry needs and changing workforce demands. The Nature-Based Early Learning and Care programme, launched in 2025, reflects the increasing emphasis on outdoor learning within the early years sector. By combining contemporary early childhood education with nature-based approaches, graduates are prepared to create enriching learning environments that support children’s holistic development.
Killorglin Campus has also positioned itself at the forefront of the expanding health and wellbeing sector with the introduction of the Yoga Teacher and Outdoor Wellbeing Facilitator programme. Blending professional yoga training with outdoor wellbeing practices, the course responds to rising demand for qualified practitioners in wellness, tourism and community settings, both locally and nationally.
Environmental education is another area where Kerry College is making a significant impact. The establishment of the Kerry College Marine and Environmental Hub in Blennerville provides a dedicated centre for sustainability-focused learning. Here, programmes are designed to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing society today while equipping learners with practical, future-focused skills. The launch of the Biodiversity in the Community programme marked an important milestone, providing learners with practical knowledge and skills to support biodiversity protection, conservation, and environmental awareness within their communities. The Marine and Environmental Hub will continue to play an important role in the future growth of environmental and marine-related education within Kerry College.
Killorglin Campus has also continued to innovate through the successful delivery of the Night Sky Guide programme, which prepares learners to deliver engaging astronomy and dark-sky tourism experiences. This programme reflects the growing popularity of experience-based tourism and highlights the unique natural assets that exist throughout County Kerry.
Today, Kerry College Killorglin Campus offers diverse and meaningful pathways into outdoor industries, environmental careers, youth work, early learning and care, biodiversity, tourism and wellbeing.
By combining innovation with strong industry links and community partnerships, Killorglin Campus is preparing learners for some of the most dynamic and fast-growing sectors within Kerry and beyond.
For those considering their next step - whether returning to education, changing career, or pursuing a passion - Kerry College Killorglin Campus offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in one of Ireland’s most breathtaking settings.
