Elevate Your Nursing Career with Trinity College Dublin and Avista
Trinity College Dublin’s Bachelor of Science in Intellectual Disability Nursing has joined forces with Avista, a national provider of specialist care services. From September 2025, the partnership will deliver practical, high‑quality clinical placements to ten nursing students each year across a range of Avista facilities in Dublin. The collaboration is designed to give students real‑world experience in the care of adults and children with intellectual disabilities—an area that commands a growing need for skilled professionals.
Why Intellectual Disability Nursing Matters in Today’s Health System
The global population living with intellectual disabilities is increasing, and the demand for specialized nursing care continues to outpace the number of qualified staff. In Ireland, a national cohort of nurses trained in intellectual disability care can reduce hospital readmissions, improve quality of life for service users, and create more inclusive work environments. Trinity’s focus on person‑centred, rights‑based practice places graduates at the forefront of this evolving sector.
Avista’s Role in Building Experiential Learning
Avista brings three years of research collaboration to the table through the Trinity Centre for Ageing and Intellectual Disability (TCAID). The new arrangement positions the company as an affiliated health service provider for the Bachelor of Science in Intellectual Disability Nursing programme. Students will complete rotations in:
- Residential homes for adults with learning difficulties
- Specialist group homes supporting children and young people
- Community support hubs offering day‑care and therapeutic services
- Outreach teams that integrate care across the city
Each placement comes with dedicated mentors—Registered Intellectual Disability Nurses (RNIDs)—and full support from a Clinical Placement Coordinator, a Nurse Practice Development Coordinator, and a Student Allocation Liaison Officer. This framework ensures that students receive tailored guidance while gaining hands‑on competence in areas such as medication management, behavioural support, and interdisciplinary teamwork.
How the Partnership Enhances Academic Rigor
Trinity’s School of Nursing & Midwifery will continue to provide core lectures and clinical skills workshops at the St. James’s Hospital campus. In addition, the Trinity Centre for Health Sciences offers advanced simulation labs where future intellectual disability nurses can practise communication techniques and emergency response protocols in a safe, controlled environment. The partnership allows students to integrate classroom theory with real‑world practice, leading to stronger confidence and higher employability upon graduation.
Career Pathways for Graduates
Completing the Bachelor of Science in Intellectual Disability Nursing opens doors to roles such as:
- Nurse Specialist in Intellectual Disability Services
- Clinical Lead for Integrated Care Teams
- Consultant in Disability Advocacy and Policy Development
- Health Education Officer for Community Outreach Programs
- Research Assistant in Intellectual Disability Studies
The partnership’s visibility enhances networking opportunities with Avista’s senior staff, future employers, and academic peers, positioning graduates for advancement in the public and private sectors.
How to Join the Programme and Secure a Placement
Prospective students should:
- Check eligibility criteria on the Trinity College Dublin website
- Prepare a CV that highlights any experience in care or community work
- Submit a strong personal statement focusing on motivation for intellectual disability nursing
- Register for the October intake and complete the assessment centre invite if called
- Confirm placement preferences in the post‑acceptance phase
Avista’s support team will then match students with suitable settings, ensuring a smooth transition into the clinical environment.
Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Journey
Interested in a career that combines science, compassion, and community impact? Apply for the Bachelor of Science in Intellectual Disability Nursing at Trinity College Dublin today. Apply now and explore how this partnership can shape your professional future.
Curious to learn more about Avista’s services and how they align with nursing education? Visit Avista’s website for detailed information on their care settings and values.
Ready to discuss your application or need guidance on the admission process? Contact the School of Nursing & Midwifery for a free consultation or to schedule an information session.
For more insights into intellectual disability care, explore our related articles and expert interviews on the Trinity College Dublin Health School website.
We welcome you to join a community that prioritises rights‑based, person‑centred care. Take your first step toward a meaningful nursing career.
