The training role was previously undertaken at Garda Headquarters (in the Phoenix Park, Dublin).

Following a major examination of all training in the Garda Síochána, a new two-year Student/Probationer Education/Training Programme was introduced for trainee Gardaí in April 1989.

The following year, the two-year Student/Probationer Education/Training Programme was accredited by the NCEA with the award of a National Diploma in Police Studies.

A more recent initiative saw the development of a Bachelor of Arts (Police Management) degree for Garda Officers of Superintendent rank upwards.

Probationer Gardaí are recognised for effort and endeavour throughout the two-year programme and on graduation day the following medals are awarded: The recruitment process is by means of a competition where the highest ranked applicants progress to the next stage.

Applicants if successful will be asked to participate in a Medical Examination and finally a PCT (Physical Competence Test).

Travelling north on this route from Templemore connects to the main Dublin-Limerick motorway (M7 – Junction 22) and Roscrea.

Travelling south on the route connects to Thurles and then the main Dublin-Cork motorway (M8 / N8 – Junction 6 Horse and Jockey).

To the east, the R433 connects Templemore to the M8 / N8 at a more northerly point (Junction 3) via the villages of Clonmore and Errill and the town of Rathdowney in County Laois.