Third Level Examinations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021

Wednesday, 24 February 2021

Questions (691)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

691. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will request SOLAS to provide clear information to phase 6 electrical students in TUD, Tallaght, on their upcoming exams; if these exams will take place online as opposed to in-house in view of the amount of learning time missed and lack of ability to conduct practical aspects of the course material; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10314/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Following the 6 January 2021 Government advice to minimise movement, off-the-job training for craft apprentices moved to primarily online delivery.

SOLAS and the HEA are actively working with sectorial stakeholders to find an alternative assessment approach for craft apprentices due to take their assessments in the coming weeks. The exact timing of phase assessments will be confirmed once agreed. Updates on the current situation are available on www.apprenticeship.ie as well as direct communication to employers and apprentices from SOLAS via text message and email.