Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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959. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to outline the further education options available for a person who already possesses a degree or master's qualification and wishes to completely change direction in their career by choosing an area that is lower than their existing qualification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34543/25]

Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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I am committed to providing opportunities for lifelong learning, so that those in the workforce are armed with the skills they need to leverage the opportunities presented by the ever changing world of work. In that context, Further Education and Training (FET) is well suited to those who wish to change their career paths and move to vocational or labour market focused employment. According to SOLAS FET and Figures 2023 publication, 24% of FET learners in 2023 held a third-level qualification.

FET programmes are available on both a full and part-time basis, including evenings and weekends. There are also blended and online options. FET is available in every community in Ireland and courses are either free or heavily subsidised. Financial supports are also available to eligible learners.

The 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) offer a broad and diverse range of FET provision over levels 1 to 6 of the National Framework of Qualifications.

Given the individual nature of each ETB, learner, and course, potential FET applicants contact the Adult Education Guidance Service in their local ETB. This is a free and confidential service, which offers impartial adult education information to help people make informed educational, career and life choices. They will be best placed to guide applicants and provide them with relevant information about FET courses and supports, which are available in their region.

Additionally, information about FET courses in different ETBs can be found on the FETCH courses website.