National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training

Earn your living doing something you love!

OPEN EVENING

We're holding an Open Evening at NTC Head Office in Dublin city centre for this course on Wednesday January 29th from 6pm to 9pm

Meet team members, view our facilities and have any questions you might have answered. You can also book your place on this course at the open evening if you wish.

Accredited at the highest European Standard for fitness instructors, EQF Level 4.

  • Internationally Accepted
  • Trusted by Employers
  • Longest established
  • Everything you need

Why our Fitness and Personal Training course?

We know that there are many courses for you to choose from out there but we guarantee that you will not find another course that exceeds the minimum required standards, only uses fully qualified tutors, and delivers everything you need to hit the ground running.

Longest Established

As Ireland’s longest-established health fitness training provider, the NTC has a well-established reputation for training the top instructors and personal trainers across the nation since 1985.

Qualified Tutors

Only fully qualified tutors deliver the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.

Internationally Accepted

Thinking of going abroad? Through its accreditation standards the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is accepted around the world.

success stories

What our graduates say!

Some of the many unsolicited testimonials we have received from graduates of the NTC's courses

I learned a lot in the last few months

Thanks for everything. I learned so much and want to thank the tutors for their patience. I’ll be back for more courses soon.

Natasha Duff
Personal Training Graduate

I really am blown away by the standard of teaching on this course

The standard of teaching on this course is amazing… so organised, enthusiastic, and down to earth. I feel lucky to experience this. Just wanted to say… FANTASTIC!

Richelle Daly
Personal Training Graduate
Sam Keating

It was the NTC course that helped me get there and I just wanted to thank you for that.

I took the NTC PT course and am now coaching in Cork. The course was key to my success. I’d be happy to give references or advice to students anytime.

Sam Keating
Personal Training Graduate

We really had a great group and we’re all keeping in touch

I really enjoyed my time at the NTC. We had a great group and are all keeping in touch.

Toni Anderson
Personal Training Graduate

I simply can’t wait to come back

Fantastic facility. I can’t wait to come back. The tutors are great, and the high standards are inspiring.

Caroline Mallon
Personal Training Graduate
Iva Ramini

The best learning experience I have come across

Thanks to all the tutors at NTC for your help. This was the best learning experience I’ve had. The whole group had so much fun.

Iva Ramini
Personal Training Graduate
All you need to know

Full Details for the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course

(Remember there's even more info in the FAQ section below)

The National Training Centre’s fitness instructor and personal trainer course provides graduates with a globally recognised qualification, enabling them to offer exercise prescription to the general public as part of their day-to-day working routine as full-time or part-time health fitness instructors and personal trainers.

This highly sought-after fitness instructor certification is accredited at the highest standard available for fitness instructors and personal trainers in Europe, EQF Level 4.

As Ireland’s longest-established health fitness training provider, the NTC has a well-established reputation for training the top instructors and personal trainers across the nation.

The NTC course is the most comprehensive training available, ensuring that NTC graduates are equipped with a wide range of skills, including group fitness, gym instruction, kettlebell training, and personal training.

The National Training Centre’s EQF Level 4 National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training covers everything you need to excel as a health fitness instructor and personal trainer.

At the NTC, you’ll receive comprehensive education in anatomy, physiology, myology, sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and essential exercise science. Our syllabus goes beyond the European minimum standard to ensure that you are equipped with the knowledge you need to succeed.

When it comes to practical training, the NTC covers it all – from group fitness classes to resistance training, personal training, fitness assessments, client appraisals, and exercise programming.

With a founding role in developing national and European standards for many years, the NTC is confident in our ability to ensure our graduates exceed expectations.

Upon successful completion of the course, NTC graduates are eligible to join the REPs Ireland national register for exercise professionals, and receive a complimentary 12-month membership after providing evidence of certification.

The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training is designed for anyone with a passion for exercise and health fitness and the desire to share that passion with others as a full-time or part-time instructor.

The standard cost for this program is €2,450.00, with a €300.00 discount for full payment before the course start date.

Fees can be paid in the following ways: a deposit of €550.00, with the balance payment made by the course start date. Total payable is €2,150.00 with the €300.00 discount applied. Alternatively you can pay the balance by two payments of €950.00, one before the course start date and the other within a month of the course start date. Places on the course are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Examination fees of €300.00 will be due at approximately week 12 for those taking the final exam.

The cost of the program manual and all other materials is included in the course fee.

The Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training programme is open to anyone, regardless of prior qualifications, and is designed to accommodate adult learners of varying skill levels.

The Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course includes two separate qualifications:

The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training

The National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training covers all relevant areas of fitness instructor training including:

  • Anatomy, Physiology and Myology

  • Sports Nutrition

  • Concepts and Components of Health Related Fitness

  • Exercise Physiology

  • Flexibility and Stretching

  • Resistance Training

  • Machine and free weight exercises

  • Core stability and bodyweight training

  • Role of the Personal Trainer in business, ethics and professional responsibilities

  • Client appraisal and motivational interviewing

  • Fitness assessment

  • Functional Kinesiology and Biomechanics

  • Circuit training

  • Plan, design and evaluate gym based programmes

  • Plan, design and evaluate group fitness classes

  • Plan, design and evaluate a periodised training programme for an individual client

  • Kettlebell Training

  • Ensure the health safety of participants

  • Exercise and special conditions

  • Assessment

  • Self-directed learning via completion of learner workbook

The study process is supported through an online Learning Portal, which offers students access to a wealth of educational resources including documents and quizzes designed to assess their understanding of course material as they progress and a full video library of all resistance training equipment techniques..

Additionally, for students enrolled in Blended Learning courses, they can revisit online class recordings at their leisure, providing ample opportunity to reinforce the course content.

Locations, Schedule and Booking

Information about schedules, locations and start dates for the course

Booking Closed

DUBLIN

National Training Centre, Dublin 7

Saturday Course

OCTOBER 12th 2024
  • Blended Learning
  • 18 Weeks
Good Availability

DUBLIN

National Training Centre, Dublin 7

Saturday Course

FEBRUARY 22nd 2025
  • Blended Learning
  • 18 Weeks
Good Availability

CORK

Mardyke Arena, UCC, Cork

Sunday Course

FEBRUARY 23rd 2024
  • Blended Learning
  • 18 Weeks

Meet The Team

Only fully qualified tutors deliver the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.

Rachel Bolton

Rachel Bolton

Rachel has been immersed in the fitness industry since 1999, beginning her journey at the National Training Centre before joining Westwood Club that same year, where she has remained ever since. As a Studio Manager/Coordinator, she is dedicated to fostering an engaging and high-energy environment. Qualified in nine Les Mills programs, Rachel began tutoring in 2009 and has a passion for developing top-tier instructors and making a meaningful impact in the industry.

John Sharkey
John Sharkey, MSc
John Sharkey

John Sharkey, MSc

John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.

John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.

John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.

Larry Geraghty
Larry Geraghty
Larry Geraghty

Larry Geraghty

Larry is a highly experienced NTC tutor who has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of resistance training and strength and conditioning. He holds the National University of Ireland’s Diploma in Training and Continuing Education, which is a highly respected qualification in the field of training and education. Larry’s expertise in resistance training is an invaluable asset to our fitness programmes, where he teaches students the most effective techniques to build strength, power, and endurance. Additionally, Larry heads up the strength and conditioning course, where he imparts his extensive knowledge and experience to aspiring fitness professionals.

Larry is also a tutor on the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy. This qualification focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions using a combination of manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise, and postural and movement education. Larry’s expertise in this area is highly sought after, and he is widely recognised as an authority in the field of neuromuscular therapy.

In addition to his teaching work, Larry runs his own successful private practice for the treatment of pain, injury, and dysfunction. His experience and expertise in the field of neuromuscular therapy have made him highly effective in helping patients recover from a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Larry’s passion for helping people achieve their physical goals and improve their overall quality of life is evident in both his teaching and his private practice. He is a highly respected figure in the fitness and wellness community, and his contributions to the field have been instrumental in advancing the science of resistance training and neuromuscular therapy.

Daniel Iannelli
Daniel Iannelli
Daniel Iannelli

Daniel Iannelli

Daniel is a highly skilled fitness professional with a passion for martial arts and strength training. He has an extensive educational background in sports and fitness, having earned a Higher National Diploma in Sports and Leisure Management, Sports Recreation Level 5, and his Masters in Strength and Conditioning.

With his background in martial arts, Daniel has a wealth of knowledge and experience in resistance training. He is a resistance training tutor for the National Training Centre (NTC), where he teaches on various programmes. His expertise in kettlebell and suspension training, as well as strength and conditioning, has been invaluable to the NTC, and to the many students he has taught.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Daniel is also an accomplished Brazilian jiu jitsu competitor. He trains regularly and competes at a high level, using his martial arts experience to inform his teaching and training methods. His commitment to his own training and competition helps him stay up to date with the latest techniques and strategies, which he then shares with his students at the NTC.

As a resistance training tutor for the NTC, Daniel is committed to helping his students reach their fitness goals. He is known for his hands-on teaching style, and his ability to create challenging, yet fun, workouts that keep his students engaged and motivated. His classes are highly sought after, and his students consistently report improvements in their strength, endurance, and overall fitness.

Overall, Daniel is a highly skilled and passionate fitness professional with a dedication to martial arts and strength training. His educational background and experience have made him an invaluable member of the NTC faculty, and his commitment to his own training and competition ensures that his teaching methods are always up to date and effective.

Mairead Kieran
Mairead Kieran
Mairead Kieran

Mairead Kieran

Mairead is an experienced and dedicated fitness professional with over a decade of experience in the health and fitness industry. She has a passion for helping her clients achieve their health and fitness goals through a holistic approach to wellness. Mairead’s clients appreciate her caring and motivational style, which has earned her a reputation as one of the most effective trainers in the industry.

As a lifelong learner, Mairead is committed to continually improving her knowledge and skills. She holds numerous fitness and personal training qualifications, including yoga instruction, powerlifting coaching, and a range of Les Mills group fitness classes. Her diverse skill set allows her to work with clients of all fitness levels and provide personalized training plans that are tailored to their individual needs and goals.

Mairead’s approach to fitness is focused on a holistic view of health and wellness, which encompasses not just physical fitness, but also mental and emotional well-being. Her dedication to this approach has made her a popular choice among her clients, who appreciate the individual attention she provides and the positive results they achieve under her guidance.

In addition to her work with individual clients, Mairead is also a valued member of the National Training Centre (NTC) faculty. Her expertise in yoga, powerlifting, and group fitness instruction make her an invaluable resource for the NTC’s students. Her approachable manner and supportive teaching style create a positive and engaging learning environment, which helps her students achieve their qualifications with confidence and success.

Overall, Mairead’s passion for health and fitness, combined with her dedication to continued learning and development, has made her a highly effective and respected fitness professional. Her ability to inspire and motivate her clients and students is a testament to her caring and motivational approach, and her expertise in a wide range of fitness disciplines has made her a valuable asset to the NTC faculty.

Noel Smith
Noel Smith
Noel Smith

Noel Smith

With more than three decades of experience in the health and fitness industry, Noel has developed a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various roles as a fitness instructor, personal trainer, and manager. His vast experience has seen him manage several fitness facilities over the years.

Noel’s impressive credentials include a range of qualifications, including a graduate of several National Training Centre (NTC) courses. These include Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training, Pilates, Indoor Cycling, Suspension Training, Kettlebell Training. In addition, he is committed to keeping up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices, frequently participating in continuing professional development programmes.

As a testament to his passion for fitness and training, Noel still teaches a variety of fitness classes, even while serving as the Gym Manager at the Boyne Valley Hotel & Country Club. He also shares his expertise by teaching on the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training course. Noel takes great pride in mentoring and supporting new students entering the health and fitness industry, ensuring that they get off to the best possible start in their careers.

Brighid Liston
Brighid Liston
Brighid Liston

Brighid Liston

Meet Brighid, a passionate and enthusiastic fitness instructor who possesses a wealth of knowledge in the field of health and fitness. She strongly believes in practicing what she preaches, and that’s evident in her healthy and active lifestyle.

Brighid’s passion for running is palpable, and she’s a regular participant in the BHAA (Business Houses Athletic Association) races. Not only does she enjoy running as a recreational activity, but she also uses it as a means to maintain her fitness levels and challenge herself both physically and mentally.

Apart from her love for running, Brighid is a certified Pilates instructor and conducts her own Sports Pilates Classes at LesiureWorld. Her expertise in Pilates has helped her clients improve their flexibility, core strength, and balance, ultimately leading to better overall fitness. Her classes are tailored to suit the individual needs of her clients, and she provides personalised attention to ensure they achieve their fitness goals.

Brighid is also a seasoned Aqua Aerobics instructor and conducts regular classes. Her Aqua Aerobics classes are a fun and effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and endurance. She combines a variety of exercises to make the classes both enjoyable and challenging.

Overall, Brighid is an energetic and knowledgeable instructor who strives to inspire and motivate her clients to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.

Craig Clifford
Craig Clifford
Craig Clifford

Craig Clifford

Craig’s passion for fitness and dedication to his profession is reflected in his impressive array of qualifications and certifications. In 2011, he completed the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training, laying a strong foundation for his career.

But Craig didn’t stop there. He has since pursued further education, earning certifications in various fitness specialties. He’s completed advanced programs in Kettlebells, Step Aerobics, Suspension Training, and Strength and Conditioning with the National Training Center (NTC). His commitment to ongoing education allows him to stay current with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Using his extensive knowledge and expertise, Craig established his own thriving fitness facility and Personal Training business. He’s built a strong reputation for himself and has attracted a loyal following of clients who trust his guidance and expertise.

Craig’s primary focus as a tutor is on Resistance Training, Fitness Assessment, and Exercise Principles. He believes in taking a holistic approach to fitness, understanding that physical activity is just one aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle. Through careful assessment, he tailors his programs to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual client. His supportive and encouraging  style helps both clients and students achieve their goals, while also making fitness a fun and enjoyable part of their daily routine.

Overall, Craig is an exceptional trainer and tutor who truly cares about his clients’ wellbeing. His impressive credentials and experience speak to his commitment to the fitness industry, and his clients’ and students’ results speak to his effectiveness as a trainer and educator.

Michelle O’Melia
Michelle O’Melia, MSc
Michelle O’Melia

Michelle O’Melia, MSc

Michelle is an accomplished and dedicated NTC tutor with over 20 years of experience in delivering educational excellence to students. Her passion for fitness and health is evident in her teaching, and she is committed to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their full potential. Michelle’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of fitness and nutrition are supported by her Masters Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science from the University of Chester.

As a tutor, Michelle teaches a range of subjects on our primary health fitness programmes, including exercise to music, anatomy and physiology, fitness assessment, and exercise physiology. She also teaches extensively on our Neuromuscular Therapy and Holistic Massage courses. Michelle has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms, making her teaching accessible to students of all levels. Michelle’s engaging and interactive teaching style keeps students motivated and focused, and she is always available to offer guidance and support when needed.

In addition to her primary teaching responsibilities, Michelle also delivers specialised courses in suspension training and indoor cycling. These courses are designed to provide students with advanced skills and knowledge in these popular and effective fitness techniques.

Beyond her work at NTC, Michelle is a passionate advocate for health and wellness. She is actively involved in local fitness and nutrition initiatives and is committed to promoting the benefits of healthy living in her community. Michelle’s dedication to her students and her profession has made her a valued member of the NTC team, and her contributions have helped to establish NTC as a leader in fitness education.

Answers at your fingertips

Frequently Asked Questions

The National Training Centre have been delivering respected educational programmes since 1985 and during that time we have had many questions asked by potential students before registration. Here you can find the answers to the questions we receive most often.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!

No prior qualifications are needed. The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is open to everyone –  whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers.

On successful completion, you’ll be qualified to:

  • Teach group exercise classes

  • Work as a gym instructor

  • Operate independently as a Personal Trainer

Unlike some qualifications, this course does not require additional study to qualify as a personal trainer.

NTC’s examination standard ensures that graduates who meet the pass criteria are fully qualified to deliver safe, effective exercise programmes –  both one-to-one and in group settings.

Yes – and to the highest standard.

This course is fully accredited by REPs Ireland, the national register for professional fitness instructors. It meets the EQF Level 4 standard – the highest European benchmark for personal training qualifications.

REPs Ireland operates independently to uphold professional standards and conducts external audits every 2 years to ensure quality.

Choosing a REPs-accredited course means your qualification is officially recognised and trusted by employers in Ireland and abroad.

Yes – your qualification can travel with you.

Because this course is accredited by REPs Ireland, it’s internationally recognised through ICREPS  a global network of fitness registers.

This means your qualification is accepted in many countries, making it easier to live and work abroad as a fitness instructor or personal trainer.

This course attracts people from all walks of life — school leavers looking to begin a career, those seeking a change later in life, and everything in between. While the minimum age to register is 18, there’s no upper age limit, and you don’t need to be a regular gym-goer to take part — just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

In fact, many older students go on to work successfully with clients in their own age group, where their life experience becomes a valuable asset.

The course is designed to be achievable for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Whether you’re returning to education or just starting out, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Between 80% and 90% of students successfully complete all final assessments on their first attempt. Most others will need to repeat just one exam, and only a small number need to repeat more than one.

Success on this course is very achievable for anyone who attends tutorials regularly and puts in consistent effort. You don’t need to have a background in fitness or science to do well – just a willingness to learn and stay engaged throughout.

If you’re committed to your studies, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

The health fitness industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Ireland, with new gyms and health clubs opening regularly. That means there’s strong demand for qualified instructors –  and excellent job prospects for NTC graduates.

NTC’s qualification is highly regarded by employers because it goes well beyond the minimum standards offered elsewhere. Employers recognise that graduates from NTC have deeper knowledge, better skills, and are ready to start working with confidence from day one.

Many graduates go on to work in gyms or health clubs, while others build successful careers as independent personal trainers or open their own PT studios.

Many graduates also choose to work abroad. Once they earn their NTC qualification, they can register with REPs Ireland, which provides international recognition and allows them to work across Europe and beyond.

The starting hourly rate for fitness instructors in Ireland is typically around €13.50, though this can vary by region and employer.

Instructors can increase their earnings by teaching additional specialist classes in areas such as Indoor Cycling, Pilates, Stability Ball, or Suspension Training. These are often paid separately, either as a flat rate per class or under a different arrangement with the facility.

Personal Trainers tend to earn significantly more, with average hourly rates of approximately €50. Earnings in this area depend heavily on client results, communication skills, and personal branding—qualities such as approachability and motivation are key to success.

Graduates who choose to work independently can offer fitness classes in local venues like community centres or parish halls. Success in these cases is typically driven by the instructor’s ability to attract and retain participants.

While income varies widely, it is realistic for motivated instructors delivering multiple classes per week to earn over €1,000 through part-time evening work, especially when combining group classes with personal training sessions.

Work experience is not a requirement of the course, but it’s something we’re happy to support if you’re interested.

Some students see work experience as a great way to explore the workplace and make industry connections, while others prefer to focus fully on their studies. The choice is entirely yours. We’re aware that some placements may involve routine or admin-style tasks that don’t reflect your full skill set, so it’s important to manage expectations.

If you’re keen to gain work experience, we’ll do our best to help connect you with gyms and facilities offering placements. Just get in touch with our support team once your course begins, and we’ll guide you through what’s possible.

The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is an 18-week programme. Final assessments usually take place in week 18, but may extend into week 19 or 20 depending on exam scheduling.

Classes generally run consecutively each week but may pause briefly for bank holidays or Christmas. There are no breaks for summer or Easter.

An intensive course option is also available in Dublin. It includes the same number of tutorials, delivered over a shorter timeframe.

The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is offered at the National Training Centre in Dublin and at the Mardyke Arena, University College Cork.

In general, switching between course schedules (such as day to evening) or locations (Dublin to Cork) isn’t possible, as each course follows a unique timetable and structure. Even though the content is the same, the delivery schedule can vary significantly, making direct transfers unworkable.

Courses also tend to be fully booked, which means there’s often no spare capacity to accommodate changes.

That said, we understand that life doesn’t always go to plan. If your circumstances change, you can apply to the National Training Centre’s Educational Committee. While transfers can’t be guaranteed, we’ll always do our best to help within reason, where space and scheduling allow.

We want you to succeed and enjoy your learning experience — so if you need help, talk to us early and we’ll support you as best we can.

You’ll be assessed through a combination of written and practical examinations.

  • The written assessment is a multiple-choice exam designed to test your understanding of course theory. Results for the written exam are issued a few weeks after completion.

  • The practical assessment allows you to demonstrate your hands-on skills in a real-world setting. You’ll receive your practical assessment results on the day.

In addition, you’ll complete a Learner Workbook throughout the course. This is a key part of your training and must be submitted in full.

To graduate successfully, you must pass both the written and practical exams and submit your completed Learner Workbook.

Outside of scheduled tutorials, you’ll need to work through your Learner Workbook and study the course modules at your own pace.

On average, students dedicate around 8 hours per week to independent study and practice. However, everyone learns differently – some students may need more time, while others may need less. The key is to stay engaged and give yourself enough time to absorb the material and build confidence in your skills.

Yes. Places can be booked by paying the deposit required and there are options listed above for the payment of the balance. There are discounts available where fees have been fully paid by the course start date.

Yes. Students of the National Training Centre often receive partial funding through the Department of Social Protection’s Technical Employment Support Grant (TESG).

To explore this option, you will need to contact your Intreo office or Local Employment Services (LES) facilitator to confirm your eligibility.

If you already hold a recognised fitness instructor qualification accepted by REPs Ireland you may be eligible for up to 25% funding through the Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet. For more information contact Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet.

If you need assistance, feel free to contact the NTC office at 01 882 7777.

Yes. If you plan to work with clients after qualifying, NTC requires that you hold professional indemnity insurance. This protects you if a client takes legal action due to an injury they believe was caused by your professional advice. If you’re working from a private premises, you may also need public liability insurance unless it’s already covered by the venue.

To make this easy, NTC has arranged a discounted insurance scheme with Balens Ltd. It’s available exclusively to our graduates and includes broad cover such as:

  • Professional indemnity and public liability

  • Legal expenses

  • Loss of reputation or documents

  • Intellectual property breaches

  • First aid and Good Samaritan Acts

The policy covers up to €4 million per claim in Ireland, with unlimited claims and legal defence costs. It also includes retroactive cover and run-off cover (if you stop practicing) at no extra charge.

You’re also covered for working abroad (excluding the USA/Canada unless requested) with no time limit, as long as you’re based in the UK or Ireland.

For more details or to apply, contact Balens at 00441684 580771 or e-mail- info@balens.co.uk

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

July 2025 –  26th♦
August 2025 – 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
September 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
October 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th♦, 25th
November 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 30th
December 2025 – 6th & 7th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

July 2025 –  29th, 31st
August 2025 –  5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
September 2025 –  2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th, 30th
October 2025 –  2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

November 2nd, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
National Training Centre, Dublin
ntc logo wided ark

When did your course begin?

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place primarily at NTC and occasionally at  SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

October 2025 –  11th♦, 18th, 25th
November 2025 – 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
December 2025 – 6th, 13th
January 2026 – 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th♦, 31st
February 2026 – 7th♦, 14th, 21st
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

October 2025 –  14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th
November 2025 –  4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, 25th, 27th
December 2025 –  2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th
January 2026 –  6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd, 27th, 29th

PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES

February 2026 – 22nd, 28th / March 2026 - 1st
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

January 18th, 2026 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary

ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place at Mardyke Arena, UCC
Sunday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm

February 2025 –  23rd♦
March 2025 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
April 2025 – 6th, 13th, 27th
May 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
June 2025 – 8th, 15th♦, 22nd, 29th
July 2025 – 6th, 13th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦

ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)

February 2025 –  25th, 27th
March 2025 –  4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, 25th, 27th
April 2025 –  1st, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th, 17th, 22nd, 24th, 29th
May 2025 –  1st, 6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd

PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES

July 2025 – 12th, 19th, 20th
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)

OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training

June 28th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00

PLEASE NOTE
Dates are provisional and, although unlikely, NTC reserve the right to make changes to the timetable if and when necessary
Mardyke Arena, University College Cork
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