The Institute of Technology, Tralee is currently recruiting applicants for Springboard+ courses which will commence in January 2016.  Programmes on offers include the Certificate in Culinary Skills and the Certificate in Industrial Instrumentation & Automation.

To be eligible for a place on a Springboard course, a person must be unemployed with a previous history of employment, be currently seeking employment or previously self-employed. People in receipt of an extended number of social welfare payments may also be eligible. Prospective students can apply online for courses through www.springboardcourses.ie and fees are free for those who meet the eligibility criteria. Those who undertake a Springboard+ course will also retain their social welfare benefits.

The programmes offered by the IT, Tralee are delivered in a flexible manner to accommodate students who might not otherwise be able to follow the traditional method of study. These courses are assisting people in re-skilling or up-skilling in areas where there are employment opportunities. A number of these programmes also offer some element of work-placement or company internship which offers excellent opportunities for future employment.

Brid Mc Elligott, Vice President for Research, Development and External Engagement at the IT Tralee, outlined that “As part of a wider drive towards economic recovery and tackling the jobs crisis, the ITT are pleased to work with Springboard in providing these very focused programmes that are tailored to assist those who are out of work to upskill and to make themselves attractive to employers in areas where there are job opportunities. Since the launch of the Springboard initiative in 2010 over 500 students have gained new qualifications and skills through Springboard funded programmes at IT, Tralee and are now in employment or undertaking further studies in Kerry or elsewhere. All of our Springboard courses are accredited on the National Framework of Qualifications so graduates will have a fully recognised qualification in some cases up to Masters level.”

Those interested in applying for a programme are also more than welcome to call to the Lifelong Learning Department at the IT Tralee daily from 11 to 1 or can contact the office at anytime by calling 066 71 91982.

Further information on Springboard+ is available at www.springboardcourses.ie