Build Skills Ireland - Ireland’s leading practical skills Academy.

Learn More
Parent & Student Register here

Offering Courses for TY , 5th & 6th year students , Leaving Cert Applied, Post Leaving Certificate and Adult Learners.

Hands-on construction skills training for TY, PLC and Pre-Apprenticeship students, building confidence, practical experience and pathways into future careers.

The Build Skills Ireland TY Programme is designed for all students — not just those considering a career in the trades. The course introduces young people to practical creativity, interior finishes, architectural design elements, DIY skills, problem-solving and hands-on learning that are valuable in everyday life. Whether a student is interested in construction, interior design, engineering, creative industries, entrepreneurship or simply gaining useful life skills and confidence working with tools and materials, the programme offers a modern and engaging experience that benefits everyone.

Two people working on architectural blueprints at a desk on the left, and a woman applying a layer of plaster to a wall with a trowel on the right.

Transition Year Practical Skills Programme

Our TY Trade Skills Course is designed to give students a real introduction to the world of construction and skilled trades through practical, hands-on learning. Students will work in a supervised workshop environment using real tools, materials and equipment while learning the fundamentals of carpentry, plastering, tiling, concreting, power tool safety, CNC operation and decorative finishes.

The programme is focused on building confidence, teamwork, practical ability and awareness of career opportunities within the construction industry. Whether students are considering an apprenticeship, PLC course or simply want to gain valuable life skills, our TY programme provides a safe, engaging and professional introduction to the trades.

Courses can be delivered as one-day workshops, weekly programmes or intensive skills weeks for schools and groups.

Learn more
Group of five young people working on assembling a wooden structure in a workshop. They are using tools and wearing matching navy blue hoodies with 'Build Skills Ireland' logos.

Practical Skills students key learnings

Students will gain hands-on experience in a range of practical construction and trade skills including:

  • Carpentry & Measuring Skills

  • Power Tool & Drill Training

  • Plastering & Finishing Techniques

  • Tiling Basics

  • Concrete Mixing & Sample Production

  • CNC Machine Demonstrations

  • Decorative Finishes & Microcement

  • Workshop Safety & PPE Awareness

  • Teamwork & Problem Solving

Take Action
Two people working on a large concrete planter in a workshop. They are shaping or polishing the sculpture, which is placed on a worktable surrounded by dust and tools.

Make your own planter and bench

Students will gain hands-on experience in a range of practical construction and trade skills including:

  • Planter Design & Shape Creation

  • Measuring & Mould Preparation

  • Concrete Mixing Techniques

  • Reinforcement & Strengthening Methods

  • Pouring & Casting Concrete

  • Surface Finishing & Texturing

  • Sanding & Decorative Finishes

  • Drainage & Practical Design Features

  • Safe Use of Workshop Tools & Equipment

  • Teamwork & Hands-On Problem Solving

Logo for Build Skills Ireland featuring a house outline with icons of a hammer, saw, paint sprayer, and trowel inside, and the text 'BUILD SKILLS IRELAND' with the tagline 'Practical Builds Skills' and the phrase 'Build Your Future'.

Supporting young people through practical skills, creative thinking and real-world pathways to future careers.

Real skills. Real confidence. Real pathways to future careers.