STEM Passport for Inclusion
The All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion programme is a joint initiative by Maynooth University, Microsoft Ireland, Science Foundation Ireland and the Department of Education that addresses inequalities with access to STEM careers among secondary school students in socially disadvantaged communities. The programme’s innovative approach, which combines an educational qualification (Level 6 NFQ), education supports, and mentoring from industry role models, provides a unique pathway for approximately 5,000 students to progress to 3rd level education and achieve a STEM qualification.
Holders of Level 6 STEM Passport awards will be eligible to apply for concessions of up to 60 points for MH304, MH601 and MH602 Engineering and Computer Science degrees. Places will be awarded on a competitive basis. There is a quota of places in each degree and the places are awarded based on merit (i.e. points attained). Further details on the initiative and application process are available on the website.
Think About Teaching Foundation Certificate
The Think About Teaching Foundation Certificate is a one year, Level 6 university preparation or access course for people who have an interest in primary teaching as a career path.
The course is run by Turn to Teaching staff from the Department of Adult and Community Education in partnership with the Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education, the Department of Education (secondary), Maynooth Access Office (MAP), and the MU Admissions and Student Recruitment Office.
The purpose of the Foundation Certificate course is to support students to critically reflect on their own educational stories both individually and collectively as they work through educational and career pathways. The course also prepares students for the academic, social and cultural opportunities and challenges of university study.
If you would like to receive updates on the developments for September 2025, please email the Turn to Teaching team on [email protected].