Written answer
Apprenticeship Programmes
The Department is expanding awareness of apprenticeships and alternative pathways through school programmes, campaigns, subsidies, WorldSkills and tertiary/FET information.
4196. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the measures being taken by his Department to increase awareness among second level students, parents and guidance counsellors of apprenticeships, traineeships, micro-credentials and other alternatives to traditional university education pathways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55946/26]
Comment on this
My Department is committed to ensuring that students, parents and guidance counsellors are aware of the full range of education and training pathways available beyond the traditional university route, including apprenticeships, traineeships, tertiary programmes, micro-credentials and broader further education options.
A priority under the forthcoming Apprenticechip and Work Based Learning Strategy 2026–2030 will be to increase awareness of apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities.
The Updated Careers in Construction Action Plan, launched in January 2026, sets out a range of initiatives aimed at engaging directly with second-level students, parents and guidance counsellors which include iVET Transition Year modules, the rollout of the SafePass for Schools programme, and the Building Heroes campaign, which showcases the experiences and career journeys of young people, including apprentices, to inspire their peers to consider careers in the sector.
My department sponsors WorldSkills Ireland which promoted skills based careers including apprenticeships to 30,000 students from over 300 secondary schools in 2025.
My Department is advancing awareness of micro-credentials and flexible lifelong learning opportunities through higher education institutions and learner supports, including the Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy and the Part-time Fee Scheme.
In addition, the National Tertiary Office is promoting tertiary programmes, which allow learners to begin their studies in FET and transition to higher education qualifications.
Information on FET courses and progression routes is available through the FETCH course database, FET information portal and the CAO website.
Together, these measures support informed learner choice and the awareness of the full range of education and training pathways available.