Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 December 2025
1096. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to improve the application process for apprenticeships similar to the CAO model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69801/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraApprentices are employees from the beginning and as such they must first find an employer who is willing to take them on and register them as an apprentice. In this regard it is a different process from applying for a college course.
I recognise however that this can be a daunting process and more can be done to make this journey straightforward for the prospective apprentice.
In November 2022, information on apprenticeship options was added to the CAO application system. Links provided on the CAO website allow learners to view a number of full-time higher education, further education and training, and apprenticeship options that are available to post-second level applicants.
Further initiatives include:
• Pre-apprenticeship courses, level 5 PLCs aimed at preparing students to undertake an apprenticeship.
• iVET (Initial Vocational Education and Training) modules, optional Transition Year modules developed collaboratively by the NCCA, ETBI, and SOLAS which offer apprenticeship taster courses.
• A database of apprentice employers is available on the apprenticeship.ie website and is updated monthly.
• The National Apprenticeship Office has also held a workshops at the Institute for Guidance Councillors annual conference to promote apprenticeship as a pathway for learners.
In the context of the next Action Plan for Apprenticeship, my Department and its agencies will be looking at how better to link prospective apprentices with employers.
