What was New Avenues to Teaching (NAT)? 

New Avenues to Teaching (NAT) was an initiative that aimed to increase the diversity of the Irish teaching force.

We want to encourage and support students from groups that are currently considered to be under-represented in teaching to achieve their goal of becoming a post-primary teacher with the School of Education in UCC. 

This includes students on the following courses:

• Professional Master in Education (PME)

• PME (Art & Design)

• BEd Gaeilge

• BEd Science Education

• BEd Physical Education, Sports Studies & Arts

Eligibility Criteria for NAT Support

NAT aimed to support students from groups who are currently considered 'under-represented' in teaching.

Target Groups for NAT

• Students with a Disability (or Disabilities)
• Students from Ethnic Minorities
• Students from the Traveller Community
• QQI Entry Route
• Students who are Lone Parents
• HEAR-eligible students
• Students who were or are in the Care of the State/Direct Provision/Supported Accommodation
• DEIS Second Level School Attendance
• Mature Students (in undergraduate programmes only)

The process for the current academic year is currently under review. Details to follow shortly.

NAT Workshops and Events 

Visit our NAT Workshops and Events page for further information on:

• workshops for students

• events for UCC staff

• community outreach events

As well as the supports offered by NAT, students can avail of other supports offered by the University as appropriate.

Access UCC

Visit Access UCC to find out more about a broad ranges of supports that may be available to students including: 

• Disabilty Support Service

• UCC PLUS Programme 

• Mature Student Office

Academic Supports

The Skills Centre offers a wide range of opportunities to enhance study and writing skills.

Online Supports

The Student Experience Office has a list of supports for students that are available online.

Financial Supports 

Information on other financial supports available to students can be found on the Student Financial Supports and Advice website.

Students experiencing financial difficulty are encouraged to contact the Student Budgetary Advisor by either:

- emailing studentbudgetingadvice@ucc.ie 

or

- making an appointment through the online Student Budgetary Appointment Request form