Image: Tom Grady, Chief Executive, Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim Education & Training Board speaking at the ETBI National FET Conference, February 26th, 2025.
Image: Siobhán Magner, Assistant Manager, Mayo Sligo & Leitrim Education & Training Board speaking at the ETBI National FET Conference, February 26th, 2025.
Image: Gráinne O'Donoghue, ETBI speaking at the ETBI National FET Conference, February 27th, 2025.
Image: Diarmuid Mooney, NCCA speaking at the ETBI National FET Conference, February 27th, 2025.
Image: Maria Walshe, SOLAS speaking at the ETBI National FET Conference, February 27th, 2025.
The new Transition Year Initial Vocational Education and Training (iVET) Module, developed through collaboration between the NCCA and FET sector, with the aim of creating clearer, more engaging pathways from post-primary education to FET. Promoting FET as a viable, accessible post-school option has long been a priority for ETBs across Ireland. This module supports early engagement with FET offerings and introduces students to practical, hands-on courses during TY.
The 16 ETBs across Ireland have consistently worked to:
Engage senior cycle students, especially those in Transition Year.
Offer “FET taster” experiences such as:
Barista training
Culinary skills
Hairdressing
Mechanics
Outdoor education
Plumbing
Many of these tasters are certified, providing students with a taste of formal qualifications and the broader FET experience.
Shape
The module has one overarching aim supported by nine sub-aims, many of which are shared between schools and FET providers. The structure encourages:
The module’s core intention is not just to "send students out" to FET providers but to embed a culture of conversation around FET within schools.
The full module is available on the Curriculum Online website. Supporting documents and sample courses (from various ETBs) are also provided. An email address is available for schools or ETBs looking to contribute or seek support.
Maria Walsh highlighted two key points:
Collaboration:
Strategy Outcomes and Future Growth:
The Transition Year iVET Module is a milestone initiative in making FET a more visible, valued, and accessible choice for school leavers. By embedding the language and experience of FET into the senior cycle, it aims to shift perceptions and open up more diverse career and education pathways.
