For people new to adult education some of the terms used can be a little confusing.

Below is a list of some of the acronyms used in this handbook.

• CAO: Central Applications Office
• ECDL: European Computer Driving Licence.
• ESF: European Social Fund
• FETAC: Further Education and Training Awards Council.
• HETAC: Further Education and Training Awards Council.
• HEI: Higher Education Institute
• NFQ: National Framework of Qualifications
• SCP: School Completion Programme
• VEC: Vocational Education Committee
• VTOS: Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme