Solas WhoWeAre

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WHO WE ARE

We are the State Organisation with responsibility for funding, planning and co-ordinating Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland.

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Established in 2013 under the Further Education and Training Act we are an agency of the Department of Education and Skills and are governed by a Board. We have been tasked with building the identity and values of a world-class, integrated FET sector that is responsive to the needs of learners and the requirements of a changed and changing economy. SOLAS also manages the National Apprenticeship system the MOMENTUM programme, EGF, eCollege, Safepass and the Construction Skills Certification Scheme.

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Mission

Our mission is to fund, co-ordinate and monitor a range of FET provision to ensure economic and social wellbeing and to play our part in progressing, influencing and supporting the development of a FET sector that is more responsive to the needs of learners and employers, is innovative, flexible and demand-led.

Vision

Our Vision is to achieve a well-recognised FET sector, valued for its quality and for delivery of education, training and skills that enables learners to succeed in the labour market and thrive in society.

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We believe that by providing a Further Education and Training Sector that is tailored to the needs of learners, employers and communities, we can harness the individual’s skills, strengthen the economy and promote social togetherness.

Paul O'Toole, CEO

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core principles

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In order to realise the vision and the mission of SOLAS, the following core principles underpin SOLAS' activities.

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Evidence-Based

Ensuring there is robust intelligence to inform the planning, funding and design of new and existing FET provision

Collaborative

Focusing on adding value by fostering collaboration across the FET sector, sharing learning and empowering delivery organisations

Responsible & Flexible

Promoting innovation and the funding of provision that meets identified needs

Outward-Looking & Learning-Centered

Being open to new ideas, proactive in seeking out evidence of 'what works' in FET and ensuring that the learner experience is at the centre of decision-making

Focused on Excellence

Maintaining a central focus on standards and quality in FET, including excellence in programme development and the on-going professional development of the FET workforce

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Our ambition is to be:

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Leading voice

for Further Education and Training in Ireland

Leading hub

of labour market intelligence in Ireland

Best practice

in corporate governance and excellence in everything we do

Positive impact

on individuals, communities and businesses

Client - Centred

outward facing and client-centred

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ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

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SOLAS has a dedicated team of over 200 staff with a range of skills and specialisms working across 10 divisions. A former CEO of Tourism Ireland, Paul O'Toole was appointed CEO of SOLAS on it's establishment in October 2013.