The Institute of Technology, Tralee today announced that they had successfully tendered for 6 new courses under the Government’s Springboard+ initiative. The courses, which will run from September 2016 are in the areas of Environmental Science, Culinary Skills, Biopharmaceutical Processes and Industrial Instrumentation. In addition, the Institute will also offer the Higher Diploma in Applied Computing as part of the ICT Skills Initiative, which aims to provide a career route into the IT sector for graduates whose primary degree is in a discipline other than computing.  Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton, TD and Minister for State for Training and Skills, John Halligan announced funding of €642,336 and 150 places, for the Institute of Technology Tralee at the national Springboard+ launch in Dublin this morning.

The Springboard+ initiative in higher education offers free, part-time courses leading to qualifications that are in demand among employers. Those currently in receipt of payments from the Department of Social Protection will retain their benefits and will not be liable for third level fees. Prospective students can apply online for courses through www.springboardcourses.ie

Over the past eight years Labour Market Activation and Springboard+ programmes nationally have assisted thousands of people to train, upskill and reskill in order to enter the workforce. New for 2016 at the IT Tralee is the Certificate in Biopharmaceutical Processes, which is a Minor Award.

The Biopharmaceutical Sector of the Pharmaceutical Industry is fast becoming an important producer of complex compounds/molecules known as ‘Biologics’ used in the targeted treatment of ‘important’ diseases. According to Ms Brid McElligott Vice President for Development, Research and External Engagement at IT Tralee Ireland’s Pharmaceutical Sector is now an important global centre for Biopharmaceutics attracting world leaders and major investment. “Nine of the world top ten pharmaceutical companies have substantial operations in Ireland. The sector employs 25,000+ directly and as many more indirectly. Graduates with this Minor Award will be well positioned to apply for roles with Biopharmaceutical Processing Companies.”

For the first time under Springboard+, the ITT will also offer the Higher Diploma in Applied Computing part-time over 2 years as well as one year full time offering. Aspen Grove Solutions has supported the IT Tralee Springboard+ funded Higher Diploma in Applied Computing for the past 4 years.  According to HR Manager Charlene Doody the company has been very happy with the students who have interned with the company as part of their programme. “All of the students who have completed an internship with us have been offered full-time positions within the company.  The programme offers the company a panel of candidates with a diverse set of skills combined with IT Skills. Students participating in this course are already highly qualified and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience with them. Given the current shortage of skilled IT personnel this is a great opportunity for companies to participate in the training of possible future employees”.

Members of the Lifelong Learning Department at IT, Tralee will be available over the coming weeks at Social Welfare offices around the county to provide information on the courses and advise potential students looking at a return to education. Further information on Springboard+ is also available by contacting the Institute at 066 7191701 or by visiting www.springboardcourses.ie