In 2011, the Springboard+ programme was launched by the European
Union and the Government of Ireland.
It’s a programme that still exists today to grow Ireland’s economy and workforce. Through this programme, those who are unemployed or self-employed and looking to return to the workforce can take select courses.
While it’s a wonderful programme that many can take advantage of, we know there are questions surrounding the initiative. In this blog, we'll take a deeper look into some of the most frequently asked questions about the Springboard+ courses.
To start off here's the answer to one of the most common questions students ask about Springboard+ courses
Can You Do More Than One Springboard Course?
The short answer is, yes. However, you can't do two courses simultaneously. You also cannot take a second Springboard+ course within the same academic year. You will need to complete one course successfully before you can take another one.
Now that you know the answer to that one, it's time to delve deeper into the topic.
What Are Springboard Courses?
The Springboard+ Initiative is a great way to take higher education courses for free. It was designed to assist those who are unemployed or who are self-employed but are looking to return to the workforce.
If you are currently working, you can still apply to take a Springboard+ course. However, you will need to pay 10% towards the course fee.
You can use the Springboard+ website to search for courses that are available through partnering schools. We’re pleased to say that several courses at Innopharma are accepted through Springboard+, too.
For a full list of courses with details of the courses, you can download our Springboard+ eBook.
Are Springboard Courses Full Time?
The majority of Springboard courses are part-time. These courses last for one full year. Some courses last for up to 2 years.
Are Springboard Courses Worth It?
This partly depends on each individual’s unique situation. For some who are not completely sure what industry they would like to be a part of, Springboard courses may not be the right solution at the moment.
However, for others who know they would like to return to the workforce in a specific industry, Springboard courses are extremely worth it.
All Springboard courses are recognised on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), or they are otherwise aligned to the framework. Once you successfully complete a course, you’re eligible for a higher education award at NFQ Levels 6, 7, 8,
or 9.
This means you’re receiving an excellent quality education to upskill your current skillset or to re-skill your skillset.
Are Springboard Courses Offered During the Day?
Times and dates of Springboard courses vary from provider to provider and from course to course.
Most Springboard programmes are a hybrid of on-campus learning and online learning.
If you have any questions about when Springboard programmes are scheduled, be sure to reach out to the course provider.
How Can Springboard Courses Help Your Career?
The purpose of the Springboard+ Initiative is to assist Ireland in growing its economy and workforce.
By helping you take your first step toward a great future in a lucrative career field,
the Springboard+ initiative is, in turn, aiding Ireland’s workforce.
Through these courses, you can gain quality education to help you re-skill or upskill in a particular industry. You can get your career on track with the right qualifications.
Whether you’re ready to take your first steps in a brand new industry, or you’re ready to re-enter the workforce after several years’ hiatus, these courses can help you do so.
Things to Remember When Applying for Springboard Courses
We believe applying for Springboard courses is a great idea if you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, especially in a new industry revolving around science and technology.
But there are several things to remember when applying for Springboard courses:
Can You Apply for Multiple Springboard Courses?
Yes, you can apply for more than one Springboard course at one time. At maximum, you may apply for up to 10 courses.
Can You Complete One Springboard Course After Another
You cannot take more than one Springboard course in a single academic year. However, you can take a maximum of 3 Springboard courses within any five-year span. Before you are eligible to complete more Springboard courses, you will need to wait two academic
years.
There are some limitations regarding unsuccessfully completing Springboard courses. If you have not successfully completed two Springboard courses in the past, you are unable to apply for another one.
If you have taken two Springboard courses in the past, but you did not successfully complete the second course, you are unable to apply for another one.
What Are the Start Dates for Springboard Courses
Each Springboard course is different. However, the majority of courses start in Autumn each year, with most of the course start dates in September. You can check the Springboard website to see the potential times and dates of each course. These dates are indicative only and are subject to change.
As you apply, check all times and dates with the course to make sure you find something suitable for you.
Once you are accepted, keep an eye on your email for any announcements on Springboard courses.
I Have Accepted a Placement in a Springboard Course, But I Have Changed My Mind. Can I Accept A Different Course?
Once you have accepted a placement in a Springboard course, all of your other applications are automatically cancelled. You will need to reach out to the course provider and let them know you will no longer be attending the course.
If other providers are accepting applications to Springboard courses, you may still apply to them.
What if I Receive a Job Offer While Attending a Springboard+ Course?
The Springboard+ Initiative advises anyone who receives a job offer while currently enrolled in a course to still take the job offer.
Course providers are equipped to respond appropriately to these situations because taking a job offer takes priority over the course.
Course providers are asked to make accommodations where appropriate and provide flexibility for anyone re-entering the workforce in the middle of attending a Springboard+ course. This may involve allowing the student to complete their course in the evenings,
on the weekend, or possibly online.
Is Work Placement Offered Through Springboard+ Courses?
Work placement is a great feature of many courses offered through the Initiative. For example, all ICT Skills courses offer work placement opportunities.
Please check the course details for more information about whether or not work placement is offered.
What Springboard Courses Are Available
Springboard courses typically revolve around a select few industries and sectors. Many of the courses focus on:
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Artificial Intelligence
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Biopharma and Pharmaceuticals
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Data Analytics
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Food Science
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High-End Manufacturing
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Information and Communications Technology
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Medical Device Technology
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and Robotics
Numerous partnering schools offer Springboard courses across Ireland. It’s a great idea to look at the Springboard website to see what is available to you.
How Do You Apply for Springboard Courses?
Before you can apply for any Springboard course, you need to make sure you are eligible to be accepted into the programme. You can check the eligibility requirements for Springboard courses here.
If you meet the requirements for eligibility, then you can apply for up to 10 Springboard courses on the Springboard+ Initiative’s website. You will need to register
an account and apply directly through the website.
After you have applied to a course, you will find a number of statuses during your application process. After the provider considers your application, they will deem it either successful or unsuccessful.
If your application is successful, you may accept it directly on your Springboard+ portal.
Check out our Springboard+ guide to find out more about eligibility requirements, other FAQs and the Springboard courses available at Innopharma!