What happens when you're ready.

The final table audition

You deal hundreds of simulated hands in real conditions across the 10 weeks. At week 10 you sit a final table audition. There are two outcomes.

Ready for event work. Clean, consistent dealing, a full understanding of game flow, and minimal errors under pressure. You graduate, and we introduce you directly to the people who hire dealers.

Continued development. Some students need more practice before taking on live event work. We make sure they get there: individual feedback, a clear improvement plan, and ongoing practice table sessions at no extra cost until your skills meet industry standards.

The Leeside Competency Guarantee

We don't hand out certificates for just showing up. Our graduates earn them. Your course includes 10 weeks of core instruction, but our commitment doesn't end there. If you don't pass your final table audition at week 10, you can attend ongoing practice table sessions at no extra cost until your skills meet industry standards.

We certify on merit

Leeside Dealer Academy maintains strict training standards so that every certified graduate is competent, confident, and reliable in real poker environments.

Certification is awarded only when consistent, professional-level performance is demonstrated. The reputation of the academy is built on the quality of its graduates.

Graduate & Get Connected

Once you hit our graduation standard and pass your final audition, we'll introduce you directly to Ireland's top cardrooms and festival organisers for freelance dealing opportunities. From there, your skills on the floor open the doors.

Graduates become part of a professional dealer network. Employment is not guaranteed, but freelance opportunities and live poker work are shared with graduates as they arise, including cardroom cash games and tournament events. Consistent, reliable dealers can go on to work larger poker festivals and take on more advanced roles in the industry over time.

Advanced Omaha module

An optional advanced module is available to certified graduates who want to widen their opportunities. It covers Pot Limit Omaha dealing, split-pot scenarios, and advanced game formats, opening access to more game types and events.

Private 1-to-1 coaching

Available for students who want to refine specific skills or prepare for professional opportunities. Limited availability. Mention your interest when you apply.