Michael Creed
Question:418 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will have arrangements made for the upgrading of a course (details supplied) from certificate to diploma course. [27406/98]
Written Answers. - Post Leaving Certificate Courses.
The International Teleservices PLC course is a two year full-time programme in the further education sector which was introduced as part of the Government Action Plan on Skills in response to emerging needs in the teleservices sector. The programme has been designed with the full support of the Industrial Development Authority and the industry, and a level 3 national certificate from the National Council for Vocational Awards has been developed in partnership with industry which sets out the framework for programme content, the expected learning outcomes, and the criteria and modes of assessment. The decision to locate teleservices training within the PLC sector was made on foot of a consultancy study commissioned by FORFAS and my Department.
The National Council for Vocational Awards is the national body responsible for assessment and certification for the further education sector, and does not award national diplomas. National diplomas awarded by the Dubln Institute of Technology and the National Council for Educational Awards apply to third-level three year full-time programmes, or their equivalent, generally provided in the institutes of technology.