I understand from FÁS that it is not appropriate to change the entry profile for these type of courses because the nature of the course is built on the learner having prior knowledge as ultimately the graduates from these programmes will work for ordinary house holders and occupants/owners of commercial enterprises. FÁS must be able to stand over the quality of the training that these graduates receive in the context of standards of competence/prior qualifications for safety around, for example, plumbing and live electrical systems and panels. This prior competence needs to be transparent in the form of a recognised qualification.
In that regard recognition of prior learning is a possible option. If the learner was registered with FÁS or ANCO then application should be made to FÁS for recognition of prior learning. However, if the learner was never registered with FÁS then application to FETAC for award determination should be made. In relation to the formal recognition of trade related work experience of the person in question FAS have informed me that those with trade related work experience can validate their competence through the apprenticeship system. To avail of this the person must: 1. Register as an apprentice with a FÁS approved employer; 2. Submit a portfolio of evidence and application for Phase exemptions. No applicant will be awarded a full exemption and all applicants will be required to undertake a minimum of phases 6 and 7.