Data Analytics Unit
What we do
The role of the SOLAS Data Analytics Unit is to support evidence-based decision making across our organisation, the ETBs and our parent Department, by analyzing, interpreting, and presenting national FET data. We transform raw data into actionable insights that help inform strategy, monitor performance, and improve learner outcomes.
Key tasks:
Embed a data-driven culture within SOLAS and the FET sector by working with internal and external teams to understand data needs and offer tailored solutions, using visualisations and building data platforms (such as the Strategic Performance Agreement Targets Tableau dashboards), leading a group of SOLAS-ETB data champions and providing training and guidance on how to use and interpret data.
We publish annual statistical reports on national FET learner profiles with key information on learner enrolments, completions, and certified completions , enabling us to track system outcomes and to identify trends to build foresight and projections. Other publications include annual statistical reports on specific cohorts, such as learners with a disability, and learners from the Roma and Traveler communities. This further enables us to identify disadvantage and promote inclusion.
To be of value, FET statistics must be trusted. We ensure that our data that informs FET statistics and insights is of high quality and adhering to the ISSCoP standards: professional independence, timeliness and punctuality, accessibility and clarity, commitment to quality and confidentiality.
Build research capability to evidence FET learner outcomes by monitoring their progression to employment and to third level education in collaboration with the CSO. This ensures that planning and provision of Further Education and Training is economic, efficient, and effective.
We represent SOLAS (and Ireland) on the Expert Group on OECD Pisa-VET International Assessment, the CSO National Data Analysts Network, the CSO Education Statistics Liaison Group and the DFHERIS Expert Group on FET Projections and DFHERIS Sectoral Research & Evaluation Group.
We report on overall FET outcomes, using both quantitative and qualitative measures, on FET statistics to the DES, DSP, several units in DFHERIS including the ESF Managing Authority on long-term results indicators, Eurostat, OECD, etc.
Working closely with SOLAS IT, ETBI, various SOLAS units and the ETBs, we ensure that PLSS data is accurate, valid, reliable, and complete.
Meet the Team
Selen Guerin - Manager DA Unit
Amelia Dulee -Kinsolving - Senior Data Scientist/Assistant Manager, DA Unit
Darragh Walsh - Data Analyst, DA Unit
Harini Sankaradass - Data Scientist, DA Unit
Sidharth Koparde - Data Analyst, DA Unit
Lisa Keenan, SOLAS-CSO Liaison Officer
Helen Garner, Clerical Officer, Da Unit
ISSCoP- Irish Statistical System Code of Practice
To ensure and continue to improve trust in the quality and impartiality of the statistics produced in the FET Facts and Figures reports, the Programme and Learner Support System (PLSS) data that informs the annual FET Facts and Figures publications is currently being assessed by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) for the ISSCoP certification. This quality assurance mark means that the PLSS data that informs the FET Facts and Figures publications will be designated as Official Statistics in the Irish Statistical System. This ensures that FET Facts and Figures report statistics comply with the five ISSCoP principles.
· Professional Independence
· Timeliness and Punctuality
· Accessibility and Clarity
· Commitment to Quality
· Confidentiality
For further information on the ISSCoP certification please see: https://www.isscop.ie/ Further information on SOLAS Data Analytics Unit’s quality commitment statement for the FET Facts and Figures reports can be found here.