An expanded range of courses available under the Springboard+ training programme is giving Clare workers the chance to develop the skills needed to safeguard their jobs and avail of new employment opportunities.

That’s according to Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey who says that the new courses provide those looking for work and those in employment with a great opportunity to upskill or reskill in areas where employers need skilled workers.

“Many courses added to the Springboard+ programme focus on future-proofing the skills of people already in employment, particularly in roles that may be impacted by digitalisation,” Deputy Carey explained.

“As technology evolves, it brings with it new ways of doing business and new economic opportunities. The Government recognises that it is essential that people in employment have the opportunity to keep pace with these advances.

“There are now 285 courses available through Springboard+ with more than 9,000 places available this academic year. Most of these courses are being delivered in a more flexible format to improve participation among those in employment.

“It also increases employment prospects for those looking for work with the Higher Education Authority confirming that 90 per cent of participants who were on the Live Register at the start of their courses are now in employment.

“Courses on offer through Springboard+ include cutting-edge training in blockchain, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, virtual reality and smart factory technology. Employees, jobseekers and those returning to work can all avail of these free or subsidised courses,” Deputy Carey added.

Springboard+ courses are free for people who are unemployed, those who were previously self-employed and returners to the workforce. Courses are also free for people in employment, on NFQ Level 6 courses. For employed participants on courses NFQ level 7 – 9, 90% of the course fee is funded by the Government, with participants required to contribute just 10% of the fee. 

Further details at www.springboardcourses.ie