Initiatives to support workforce development
A number of Government initiatives now provide support for individuals who want to upgrade their skills and work towards accredited qualifications.
- Modular Accreditation Programme (MAP) (Higher Education Authority)
- One Step Up (FÁS)
MAP Programme
The national Modular Accreditation Programme (MAP) has been developed through the Higher Education Authority (HEA). This innovative initiative provides support for individuals who want to access part-time, flexible, affordable career development opportunities.
MAP involves the collaboration of national 3rd level colleges to offer:
- part-time courses designed by you to meet your needs – from a single subject to a full degree
- Flexible and supportive delivery, built around your life
- Tutor support and guidance
ITT Dublin is the only college nationally offering this programme on a pilot basis for the coming year.
The Programme:
Through MAP, your employees can register for modules from the pool on offer. Credits towards an award can be completed at each individual’s own pace. Completion of all the programme modules on offer in the pilot programme leads to a Higher Certificate in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Technology.
Eligibility
Employees of companies that do not currently fund individuals to complete training leading to a nationally recognised accredited qualification at Level 6 in Good Manufacturing Practice and Technology are eligible to apply.
One Step Up
One Step Up is FÁS’ response to the report of the Enterprise Strategy Group “Ahead of the Curve, Ireland’s place in the global economy”. All FÁS programmes and initiatives are aligned to the One Step Up concept that training and development programmes assist individuals to build on their competency levels and obtain a recognised qualification within the National Framework of Qualifications. Unless otherwise for 2008, FÁS will provide the following financial support towards the cost of eligible training as follows:
- up to 70% of the agreed cost for certified programmes where the individual is working for a Small to Medium Sized Company (SME) i.e. 250 employees or less.
Eligibility
To be eligible for FÁS support you must be in fulltime employment in the private sector, or in a commercial state body in the public sector. Employees in the Engineering Departments of Local Authorities are also eligible. If FÁS funding is available for a particular course this is clearly stated in the course information leaflet in the part-time prospectus 2008/9.
If you would like to discuss your training needs or require any further information please contact:
Dr. Terry Maguire,
Head, Department of Lifelong Learning,
ITT Dublin,
Tallaght, Dublin 24,
Tel: +353 1 404-2771
Fax: +353 1 404-2174
Email: terry.maguire@ittdublin.ie
