Record Participation in Further Education and Training in 2024

A record-breaking 400,000+ learners participated in Further Education and Training (FET) in 2024, according to provisional data released by SOLAS, the Further Education and Training Authority. This  achievement reflects another year of unprecedented growth in FET, apprenticeships, and construction skills training across Ireland.

Since the end of 2022, the learner base across the country’s 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) has grown by 25%, demonstrating the increasing value placed on FET as a pathway for personal, professional, and societal advancement.

The announcement coincides with the conclusion of Ireland’s second national FET strategy, as plans for the 2025–2029 FET strategy begin to take shape. This new strategy aims to continue transforming the sector to support economic development, foster social inclusion, and widen participation among marginalized communities.

Key Highlights from 2024

Workforce Transformation

• Over 25,000 upskilling places were taken by employees through the Skills to Advance program in areas such as sustainability, digital, and robotics.
• Enrolments in eCollege, SOLAS’ online learning platform, surged by 47% from 2023, with nearly 37,000 learners taking advantage of flexible, online training.

Pathways for School Leavers

• Participation in primary alternatives to direct university entry, such as PLC courses, apprenticeships, and new tertiary degree programs, has increased by 11.8% since 2019, offering students diverse routes to higher education and employment.

Apprenticeships

• 9,352 new apprenticeships were registered in 2024 across 77 different programs, with nearly 10,000 employers engaging in apprenticeship training. This is crucial for achieving targets under initiatives like Housing for All and the Climate Action Plan.
• Phase 2 apprenticeship training capacity was expanded by 45%, ensuring greater accessibility for learners and industries alike.

Driving Economic and Social Impact

FET participation has steadily grown over the past five years, solidifying its role as a critical contributor to Ireland’s economic resilience and social cohesion. From helping employees upskill in emerging fields to providing inclusive pathways for marginalized groups, FET is empowering individuals and communities across the nation.

Nightcourses.com offers a wealth of opportunities to explore FET programs, apprenticeships, and online training options. Whether you’re looking to enhance your career, discover a new passion, or transition into a thriving industry, FET courses provide the tools and skills to succeed in today’s dynamic workforce.

Visit Nightcourses.com today to explore the latest FET courses and take the first step toward achieving your goals in 2025!