National Learning Network opens new campus in Ballyfermot

National Learning Network (NLN), part of the Rehab Group, has officially opened a new campus, College East at the former Caritas College site in Ballyfermot.

This purpose-built campus will welcome up to 200 students each year, providing specialist supports to people with disabilities, mental health challenges, autism, or those who need additional flexibility to progress to further education and employment.

The college was officially opened by Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin, TD, Rehab Group CEO Barry McGinn, Director of Learning at Rehab, Rita Day, along with NLN staff, funders, students, and community representatives.

Minister Harkin said: “I am honoured to attend the opening of NLN College East in Ballyfermot today and to unveil its commemorative plaque.

“My Department is committed to ensuring that all learners have access to the supports they need to engage meaningfully with education and skills development – contributing to personal, community and national growth.

“National Learning Network plays a vital role as a third-party provider in delivering Further Education and Training on behalf of my Department.

“Each year, NLN supports approximately 3,000 students across the country with significant investment provided through SOLAS and the 16 Education and Training Boards.”

Offering certified educational courses for those who need specialist support, NLN College East is a new education and training college in the heart of Dublin.

Built to reflect NLN’s values of inclusion, empowerment, and personalised education, College East is more than just a college, it’s a community built around the belief that learning should adapt to the student.

The college will offer courses in a diverse range of areas from retail, catering, sports, performing arts, computer programming, game design, business studies and creative media and a host of QQI Level 3-5 courses.

Speaking at the event, Barry McGinn, CEO of Rehab Group, said: “This is a proud day for Rehab and National Learning Network.

“This new campus represents far more than bricks and mortar it symbolises opportunity, inclusion, and ambition.

“Our students deserve the very best facilities and support, and this building gives them the space to learn, grow, and prepare for meaningful futures.

“Today is about celebrating what education can achieve when communities, funders, and organisations work together we provide the stepping stones needed for each student to reach their full potential.”

The new campus unites students from four separate locations – including the former Roslyn College and former Balllyfermot site – bringing everyone together under one roof. It offers:

• State-of-the-art classrooms and training spaces that support a wide variety of learning needs
• A dedicated multidisciplinary team – including instructors, resource teachers, rehabilitation officers, and psychologists – who work with students to create personalised learning plans
• Student Support Services including Learning Support and Assistive Technology
• A fully equipped retail unit on campus, giving students the chance to gain hands-on experience and develop real retail skills through workplace simulations.
• A sensory garden, which when completed, will provide a calming and inclusive outdoor space for students.”

Each year, NLN supports thousands of people nationwide to achieve qualifications, move into further or higher education, and secure employment.  Funded by the Education and Training Boards Ireland and the HSE, NLN’s work not only transforms individual lives but also benefits communities and wider society through higher earning potential, increased tax contributions, and reduced reliance on social welfare.

Dr Rita Day, Director of Learning at Rehab Group said: “At NLN we focus on each student’s development in a holistic sense, not just qualifications.

“What we offer is a personalised education for those who struggle in traditional educational settings. NLN can be truly life changing.

“We are so thrilled to add NLN College East to our portfolio which is open to students across the county and region.

“This campus is a commitment to our students’ futures. It is also a commitment to challenging Ireland’s poor record on disability employment by giving people the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed.”

With doors now open, NLN looks forward to welcoming students and strengthening its role as an inclusive and supportive educational and training college for students who need a little support to achieve their educational and career goals.