Further Education and Training Programmes Funding

Wednesday, 14 January 2015

Questions (786)

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

786. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the options open to an institution (details supplied) regarding funding for courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1111/15]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

My Department funds Further Education and Training programmes, including the Post Leaving Certificate programme (PLC), through SOLAS, the new Further Education and Training Authority. The PLC programme is a full time programme for learners who have completed their Leaving Certificate and for adults returning to education. It is provided in schools managed by the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and in some Voluntary Secondary and Community & Comprehensive schools. Courses are provided at QQI Levels 5 and 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) or equivalent.

SOLAS funds a range of programmes directly and through the Education and Training Boards that can be tendered for by private providers. SOLAS directly manages the Momentum programme but all places under the current round have been allocated to providers following a competitive tendering process. The provider in question should contact their local Education and Training Board for information on any upcoming tendering opportunities.