Vocational education and training in Ireland

The Irish FET system is governed by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, with SOLAS acting as the statutory agency for funding, coordination and strategy. 

FET delivery is primarily secured through Ireland’s 16 education and training boards. Quality and Qualifications Ireland is both an awarding body and a quality assurance body, playing a key role in setting standards and qualifications in VET.

A distinctive feature of the system is the dual apprenticeship model, alongside innovative tertiary degrees offering seamless progression pathways between FET and higher education. Key areas of focus include addressing skills shortages through microqualifications under the skills to advance initiative and fostering social inclusion through the adult literacy for life strategy and the new community education framework.