The East Cork Music Project: Doing things a different way
At the East Cork Music Project (ECMP), we know school isn't one-size-fits-all. If you're aged 16–24 and ready for a fresh start, our community is here for you. Backed by the Cork Education Training Board (CETB), we provide a creative space where you can be yourself, discover your talents, and gain QQI qualifications at your own pace. It’s about building confidence, learning practical skills, and finding your rhythm in a supportive environment designed for how you learn best.
The CDYS East Cork Music Project has been a cornerstone of creative education in the region since 2011. What began as a response to a clear need for alternative learning pathways has grown into a vibrant hub where young people aged 16–24 can explore music, the arts, and their own potential. Driven by a committed team passionate about youth development, the project continues to thrive and evolve.
The East Cork Music Project may have started with music at its heart, but we’re far more than a music programme. Our doors are open to any young person looking for support, structure, creativity, or a fresh start whether they’re into music, art, sport, gaming, or none of the above. What matters to us is the person, not their interests, and everyone is welcome to be part of our community.
ECMP offers a space where learners from diverse backgrounds can engage in education outside the traditional school system. Many of those who join us do so because their individuality wasn’t fully understood or supported in mainstream settings. Here, we celebrate those differences. We work with each learner to help them recognise their strengths, build confidence, and develop the life skills and qualifications needed to progress into further education or employment.
Our Creative Pathways
General Learning
QQI LEVEL 3
The QQI Level 3 programme at the East Cork Music Project provides learners with a supportive, practical introduction to key skills that build confidence, independence, and readiness for further education or training. The course focuses on developing essential communication, personal effectiveness, and basic vocational skills through creative, hands‑on learning.
Learners engage in a mix of classroom activities, group projects, and real‑world tasks designed to strengthen literacy, numeracy, digital skills, and personal development. The programme is delivered in an inclusive, youth‑centred environment where learners are encouraged to explore their interests, express themselves, and build positive routines.
Successful completion of the course leads to a QQI Level 3 qualification, offering a pathway into Level 4 programmes, further training, or community‑based opportunities.
Included Modules QQI Level 3:
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Communications
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Personal Effectiveness
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Career Planning
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Drawing
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Music Performance
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Mathematics
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Workplace Safety
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Customer Service
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Word Processing
QQI LEVEL 4
Employability Skills
The QQI Level 4 programme at the East Cork Music Project supports learners to build stronger academic, personal, and vocational skills in a creative, youth‑centred environment. This course acts as a bridge between foundational learning and more advanced study, helping learners develop confidence, responsibility, and the ability to work independently.
Through a mix of classroom learning, practical projects, and real‑world tasks, learners strengthen their communication, digital literacy, problem‑solving, and teamwork skills. Modules are delivered in an accessible, supportive way, with plenty of opportunities for hands‑on learning, creative expression, and personal growth.
Completion of the QQI Level 4 award prepares learners for progression to Level 5 programmes, further training, apprenticeships, or employment pathways, giving them the tools to take their next steps with confidence
Included Modules QQI Level 4:
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Communications
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Personal Effectiveness
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Career Preparation
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Art and Design
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Drawing
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Music Appreciation
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Word Processing
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Work Experience
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Mathematics
Ready to Start?
East Cork Music Project (ECMP) is a creative hub for young people aged 16–24 who are looking for a different way to learn. We offer QQI Level 3 General Learning and QQI Level 4 Employability Skills in a space where you can be yourself. Whether you’re a student looking for a fresh start or a parent seeking a supportive environment, we’d love to have a chat and show you around.
Get in Touch
brian.banim@cdys.ie
Call or WhatsApp
086 140 9513
Find the Project
Midleton Community Centre, Riverside Estate, Bailick Road, Midleton, Co. Cork