Ms Meadhbh Costello:

Within the apprenticeship system, there is very good collaboration between the ETB and technological university sector but as part of a broader tertiary system, there are significant opportunities to expand this collaboration, particularly in areas such as the expansion of tertiary degrees. We have seen a number emerge but there is opportunity for them to grow as they give good pathways from further to higher education. The education system needs to be looked at not just as a linear pathway but as something more circular whereby an individual does not just move up the NFQ but also from higher to further education. There are other areas that need to be explored like the sharing of infrastructure in local regions and training centres to maximise value for all communities from those resources. The ongoing consultation on the tertiary strategy is an opportunity to bring some fresh ideas.