QQI Accredited Training Overview
Youth Theatre Ireland has been providing training in youth drama facilitation practice since 1999. In 2007, our ArtsTrain programme received accreditation for 2 FETAC modules in 2006.In 2013, our accreditation moved to Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI). QQI is the state agency responsible for promoting the quality, integrity, and reputation of Ireland’s further and higher education system.
This accredited training 'Drama Facilitation Training (PG15897)' offers learners the opportunity to achieve all or part of the NFQ Level 6 Certificate in Drama. The awarding body for this programme is Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI). This programme is subject to procedures for Access, Transfer and Progression and has Protection for Enrolled Learners (PEL) in place.
Course information can be found on QQI's website here
Details of Access, Transfer and Progression and PEL can be found in our Training and QA Manual at the link below
Training QA manual Version 3 1 March 2026
Our learner handbook can be accessed at the link below
Learner Handbook Version 3 1 March 2026
Re-engagement process with QQI
In 2023 Youth Theatre Ireland undertook a re-engagement process for providers.
The QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) re-engagement process is a statutory, one-off initiative designed to transition providers from older quality assurance (QA) systems (formerly HETAC/FETAC) to the modern, strengthened framework required by the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) (Amendment) Act 2019.
Youth Theatre Ireland were approved through this process in February 2024, full details and the independent panel report can be viewed here
Drama Facilitation Training Course 2025/2026
This part-time course covers two component modules from our full award. These modules are Leadership and Engaging with Drama and are delivered at QQI Level 6. There will be one weekend per month from September to May 2026. There are a limited number of places available.
What will I learn?
• A host of transferable skills and facilitation methodologies used in youth theatre
• Skills you can use to kick-start and plan a creative project with young people
• How to explore fresh ways of building basic drama skills with a group
Who is this training for?
This training is for anyone over the age of eighteen who would like to develop their facilitation skills to work creatively with young people, such as:
- Anyone interested in ArtsTrain (Youth Theatre Ireland's previous full-time facilitation course)
- Youth theatre facilitators
- Youth workers
- Youth arts practitioners
- Youth leaders
- Actors and artists
- Teachers
- Writers
- Filmmakers
- Musicians
What if I’m an experienced facilitator?
This course is a great chance to meet like-minded people, expand your network and discover fresh approaches to your facilitation practice.
Who is facilitating this course?
Dave is author of Laying the Foundations, and Youth Theatre Ireland’s National Training Co-ordinator. He developed and delivered Artstrain, Youth Theatre Ireland's full-time Drama Facilitation QQI level 6 course, which ran until from 1999 - 2017.
Barry is Youth Theatre Ireland's Special Projects Officer. He is a previous graduate of ArtsTrain and co-founder of Tailtiu Theatre. He is co-artistic director of Impact Youth Theatre, the only youth theatre operating in Direct Provision.
What does it cost?
The course costs €850
Your fee will cover:
• All workshops / support sessions
• Mentor guidance sessions
• QQI accreditation covered
• Two Level 6 Component Awards
• Youth Theatre Ireland Certificate
• Graduation Ceremony!
Please note that this fee is for the 2025/2026 academic year and is subject to change in future iterations of the DFTC
How do I apply?
Applications are now closed for the 2025/2026 academic year.
If you would like to register your interest for future training opportunities please fill out this short form
https://forms.office.com/e/eCG...
For more information about the DFTC check out this playlist
Paddy O'Dwyer Memorial Bursary
Supporting the next generation of youth theatre leaders Youth Theatre Ireland is proud to offer a bursary in honour of our co-founder Paddy O’Dwyer, supporting one emerging leader to take part in the Drama Facilitation Training Course 2025/2026.
This bursary is open to applicants who:
✔ Are 18 or over
✔ Are actively involved with a Youth Theatre affiliated with Youth Theatre Ireland
✔ Can commit to all course dates (Sept 2025 – May 2026) at NUI Maynooth
What it covers: Full course fee (€850)
Please note: By accepting the bursary, the successful applicant commits to attending all course dates and completing all required work. If a recipient withdraws or fails to complete the course without reasonable extenuating circumstances, they may be required to repay the full course fee.