Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

285. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the total number of participants in Springboard+ programmes in each of the past five years; the Government funding provided to the programme in each year; the Government’s targets and plans to increase the numbers in Springboard+ programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36334/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Springboard+, established in 2011, continues to play a vital role in expanding access to higher education by offering flexible, work-focused learning opportunities to adult learners across the country. Aligned with national skills priorities, Springboard+ supports individuals to upskill or reskill in high-demand areas such as ICT, construction, cybersecurity, and green skills. The programme is free or heavily subsidised and offered in flexible formats including part-time, blended, and online, making higher education more accessible to all.

In May 2025, Springboard+ 2025 was launched which is providing almost 8,000 places on 249 courses, including Micro-credentials. Springboard+ is open to the unemployed, employed and those returning to the workforce, subject to meeting eligibility criteria. The programme has demonstrated strong outcomes in learner progression and graduate employability, with the majority of participants securing employment or progressing to further study upon completion. Tables showing enrolment numbers from 2020 to 2024 and application data for 2025 are set out below.

Government funding was increased between 2020 and 2022 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From 2023, the allocation returned to pre-COVID levels. The annual budget allocation for Springboard+ for the years 2019 to 2025 is also included in the tables.

Efforts are underway to ensure that enrolments are maximised within the available allocation. Application numbers for Springboard+ 2025 are very strong. As of 27 June, 12,796 applications have been received for 7,719 places. This marks an increase of approximately 50 percent in applications compared to the same date in 2024. Fill rates in the Higher Education Indicators show that Springboard+ courses filled over 100 percent in 2023 and 2024.

A comprehensive national marketing and communications strategy to promote Springboard+ 2025 has commenced, including radio, outdoor, social media and Irish language advertising. Higher education providers are also running their own campaigns to promote individual programmes.

As demand grows for a skilled and adaptable workforce, Springboard+ will continue to be an important driver of increased participation in higher education.

Note: Applications for Springboard+ 2025 opened on 30 June 2025. Total of 12,796 applications submitted to date (max ten applications per applicant).