Skillnet Ireland Supporting Businesses to Access Further and Higher Education Opportunities through Recognition of Prior Learning

In today's dynamic business landscape, continuous learning and upskilling have become essential. However, many individuals possess valuable skills and knowledge acquired through work experience and informal education that remain unrecognised in formal academic settings. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a significant element in providing accessible education and training to meet the needs of the Irish workforce.  

Ireland’s approach to RPL aims to enable individuals, particularly those already in the workforce, to attain formal qualifications that align with their professional experiences and skills. This is especially important in the context of upskilling and reskilling efforts, given Ireland’s rapidly evolving job market.  

The Irish government, academic institutions and industry, are increasingly focused on RPL to recognise skills acquired through work and life experiences, which aligns with the Skillnet Ireland focus on lifelong learning. Through its Skillnet Business Networks and National Initiatives, Skillnet Ireland fosters an environment where continuous upskilling and reskilling are encouraged. 

The emergence of RPL as a pathway to further and higher education comes at a time when businesses internationally face prolonged and chronic shortages of the skills required to deliver on their strategic objectives. 

Tracey Donnery, Skillnet Ireland Director of Policy and Communications, said RPL bridges the gap between informal learning and formal qualifications, making education systems more inclusive and efficient.   

“Recognition of Prior Learning is transforming the educational landscape by providing inclusive pathways for individuals to advance their careers and personal development. Irish universities, colleges, and training providers have flexible pathways through RPL, especially for adult learners and working professionals. Businesses can leverage RPL opportunities to build a highly skilled and adaptable workforce, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.” she said.  

Miriam Dempsey, Logistics Manager at Co Carlow based Walsh Whiskey, wanted to undertake a masters programme in Supply Chain Management at South East Technological University (SETU), however, she did not hold the Level 8 degree needed to access the course.  

Seeking an alternative enrolment route, Miriam turned to her local Skillnet Business Network, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet for support. Ashling Ward, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet Network Manager, played a crucial role in identifying that Miriam could earn a place on the masters programme through the Recognition of Prior Learning pathway. Through the RPL process, Miriam’s extensive professional experience was assessed and validated, creating an academic framework that recognised her industry knowledge.    

Miriam's hard work and dedication paid off as she graduated with a first-class honours. This accomplishment was a significant milestone for her and a testament to the impact of RPL. Miriam said, “getting a first-class honours in the masters was a huge result for me” and she encouraged others to explore the educational pathways available to them through RPL. “I think it’s a great chance to exchange your experience for access,” she added. To hear more about how Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet supported Miriam through the RPL process, watch the full case study video: www.skillnetireland.ie/success-stories/walsh-whiskey.     

Cultural and Creative Industries Skillnet has partnered with Technological University Dublin and Screen Ireland to deliver the new BA (Hons) Screen Industry Practice programme. The programme aims to support experienced practitioners in the screen industries to achieve a Level 8 degree, largely through RPL.  

The 18-month programme offers experienced practitioners across all roles and departments of the screen sector, an accelerated route to an honours degree. The curriculum aims to develop the students' understanding of their own learning journey and to help them to contextualise it in the broader historical, political, social, and economic changes that have shaped the creative industries in Ireland over the span of their career.  

To find out more about the programmes and supports offered by a Skillnet Business Network in your sector or region, visit: www.skillnetireland.ie/skillnet-business-network/networks.