Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 December 2025
1098. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the total number of people who have dropped out of apprenticeships in the past five years, broken down by the phase in which they have dropped out, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69952/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to maximising the number of people who start and finish apprenticeships.
In the recently published National Survey of Apprentices, 87% of apprentices reported that they are enjoying their apprenticeship experience and 84% have developed confidence in their ability to learn; 85% are glad they chose the apprenticeship route and feel part of their organisation, and 94% of apprentices believe their apprenticeship will provide good employment opportunities.
This positive experience is reflected in the relatively low non-progression rates. SOLAS data shows that approximately 90% of first year apprentices progress to their second year, figures that compare positively to other tertiary education options.
SOLAS does not collate information on progression by year by Phase of training. This is because apprenticeship programmes are on a continuous intake basis, and multiple phases can be completed in each year. Given this, the requested information cannot be provided.
