Learning Waves Skillnet’s impact on Ireland’s Independent Radio Sector celebrated as it marks 20-year milestone

On Thursday September 12th, Learning Waves Skillnet celebrated a milestone - 20 years of supporting Ireland's Independent Radio sector through training, development and networking.  

The event, hosted at Clontarf Castle, reflected on two decades of achievement and a look to the future of the Skillnet Business Network.    

Learning Waves Skillnet was established in 2004 to provide training and upskilling for those working in the Independent Commercial Radio Sector in Ireland. The Network’s commitment to the sector has seen it deliver over 21,000 trainings and support almost 6,000 individuals since its inception.  

Addressing the warm crowd of industry professionals, colleagues and friends at the 20th anniversary event, Teresa Hanratty, Learning Waves Skillnet Network Manager, said: “It's hard to believe that 20 years have passed since Learning Waves was set up. The support from Skillnet Ireland and Coimisiún na Mean has been instrumental in shaping our programmes and ensuring their continued success.” 

"Our trainers are key to our success, and we would not be where we are today without their dedication and commitment. The feedback and support from our trainees and industry partners have been crucial in shaping our programmes and driving continuous improvement,” she added. 

Paul Healy, Skillnet Ireland Chief Executive, congratulated Learning Waves Skillnet and emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Network, Skillnet Ireland and industry partners.  

“From very humble beginnings, Skillnet Ireland started off just like Learning Waves Skillnet, as a pilot initiative in 1999 with lots of hopes and dreams. In its first year, Learning Waves Skillnet had an aspiration to train 100 employees, and today that number has grown to over 600. What has moved the dial and made our organisation so successful is the fact that everything we do begins and ends with companies. It's you, the practitioners on the ground, dealing with day-to-day challenges who inform us what the skills gaps are, and we trust you to make those decisions.” 

Over time, Learning Waves Skillnet has experienced seen significant changes in the variety of supports it provides, the way these programmes are delivered, and the excellent opportunities created in collaboration with its industry partners. 

In 2019, the Network launched its flagship Journalism Graduate Programme. The programme places an ambitious group of graduates in commercial radio stations for five months, where they benefit from mentorship support and learn the industry from the ground up. Commenting on the impact of the programme, Bernadette Prendergast, former Chairperson of Learning Waves Skillnet and current Head of News at Galway Bay FM, said: “The Journalism Graduate Programme serves as a great example of an apprenticeship. It bridges the gap between academic learning and practical experience. It acts as a disruptor for the radio industry, enabling stations to benefit from new talent and fresh perspectives." 

The celebration of Learning Waves Skillnet's 20th anniversary was a testament to two decades of dedication and impact in the radio industry. As the Network looks ahead, the collective support and enthusiasm from all involved promises a bright future for empowering radio professionals and continuing to shape the industry.  

Further information about the programmes and supports offered by Learning Waves Skillnet, is available online.