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Ireland

National Tour Guide

Portobello Institute

Course code
6S20232
Level
Level 6
Award
Level 6 Specific Purpose Award (Level 6 NFQ)
Classification
Special Purpose
Awarding body
QQI
Duration
3 months blended learning. Delivery Method: Blended learning. September 2026 Course. This course runs from 26/09/2026 – 18/12/2026. This course commences with an in-person induction day on Saturday, 26th September 2026. See our website for provisional time table. This is subject to change. Interactive webinars take place Monday & Wednesday evenings, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Webinars are recorded and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. January 2027 Course: This course runs from 09/01/2027 – 31/03/2027. This course commences with an in-person induction day on Saturday, 9th January 2027. See our website for provisional time table. This is subject to change. The weekend workshops take place in-person, we recommend you aim to have full attendance at the weekend sessions. Please see ‘real life learning opportunities’ for more information and details of the Fam trip.
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Programme summary

Join our practical, engaging course designed to prepare you for a career as a certified National Tour Guide. Delivered through a mix of online webinars and weekend workshops with familiarisation trips, the programme covers Irish heritage and culture, tour planning, and guiding skills.

Entry requirements

  • Entry to this course is by direct application to Portobello Institute.
  • Applicants should meet ONE of the following entry requirements: Hold a Leaving Certificate with pass in 6 ordinary level subjects, Hold an NFQ Level 5 Major Award, Be a Mature Applicant i.e. over the age of 23 years.
  • Whilst not a requirement, having good communication skills and a genuine interest in people are key attributes to becoming a successful tour guide.
  • Fluent English (oral and written) is essential, (IELTS minimum 6) and other languages would be deemed desirable, to undertake this course and to work within the industry. Basic mathematical skills and computer literacy and the use of mobile apps is also essential.

Who to apply to

Course provider