Irish students face a financial crisis as the Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy (APAC) goes into liquidation, leaving dozens of students who paid thousands of euros for a play therapy qualification in a vulnerable position. This situation highlights the importance of thorough research and due diligence when pursuing further education, especially in the field of psychotherapy, where accreditation and reputation are crucial. The story of these students serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in educational institutions, particularly those offering specialized and costly qualifications.
The APAC, based in the UK, offered a master's degree course in practice-based play therapy in Ireland through Play Therapy Ireland (PTI). The course, accredited by the University of Chichester, was priced at almost €10,000, with students investing significant amounts in fees, equipment, and accommodation. However, the sudden announcement of the course's liquidation has left students feeling betrayed and uncertain about their future.
One student, Theresa Falconer, invested over €6,500 in the course, including student fees, equipment, and accommodation costs. She qualified as a primary school teacher in the UK and moved home to Waterford with her family, hoping the play therapy qualification would help her re-enter the workforce. The intensive 15-day in-person teaching module required her to pay for accommodation and materials, adding to the financial burden.
The University of Chichester, in a follow-up email, assured students that they are working to understand the implications and explore support options. They advised students to refrain from making further payments to APAC and to seek independent advice regarding fees. However, the uncertainty surrounding the course's future and the lack of a clear plan for students' placements and supervision have left many feeling anxious and disillusioned.
This incident raises important questions about the reliability and stability of educational institutions, especially those offering specialized and costly qualifications. It also underscores the need for students to carefully consider the reputation and financial stability of the institutions they invest in. The story of these Irish students serves as a reminder that thorough research and due diligence are essential when pursuing further education, and that the reputation and accreditation of an institution should be a top priority.
