- Leisure, Health & Fitness Skillnet among six new networks launched by Skillnet Ireland
- The Leisure, Health and Fitness Skillnet is promoted by Ireland Active, the Leisure, Health and Fitness Association
- Skillnet Ireland now has over 65 learning networks supporting over 16,000 organisations nationwide
Skillnet Ireland, the national agency responsible for the promotion and facilitation of workforce learning in Ireland has launched six new networks to address the growing skills needs in the film, television, retail, health and fitness sectors.
The six new networks are Leisure, Health & Fitness Skillnet, Fingal Dublin Chamber Skillnet, Screen Skillnet, SFA Skillnet, Dundalk Chamber Skillnet and CSNA Skillnet.
All six were unveiled yesterday (May 13th 2019) at the Virgin Media Television studios in Ballymount, Dublin.
Leisure, Health & Fitness Skillnet is a learning network for all organisations in the leisure, health and fitness sector. This network will develop a strong talent pipeline and enhance the specialised knowledge and skills that currently exist within the industry. The Leisure, Health and Fitness Skillnet is promoted by Ireland Active, the Leisure, Health and Fitness Association.
“Over 350 people across Ireland will benefit from our training programmes which we hope to begin rolling out next month,” said Karl Dunne, Leisure, Health and Fitness Skillnet Network Manager.
“A wide variety of training programmes will be provided, from fitness CPD’s to managerial upskilling. We hope to have something to suit all members,” he added.
With a proven track record in developing innovative learning networks, Skillnet Ireland through its 65+ strong community currently supports over 16,000 companies, particularly SMEs, in sectors and regions across the country.
Skillnet Ireland works closely with these networks to address emerging skills needs, by designing bespoke programmes and qualifications across multiple sectors such as; manufacturing, agri-business, ICT, engineering, pharma, medtech, hospitality and construction related disciplines.
Speaking at the launch Paul Healy, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland said;
“In order to remain competitive, businesses need to invest in their greatest asset, their employees. Promoting continuous learning and upskilling will not only improve productivity; all the evidence shows it actually increases employee engagement and staff retention.
“These new networks will drive greater levels of training and management development within a wide variety of sectors. By facilitating industry led collaboration with training and education providers Skillnet Ireland will address the specific skills gaps and shortages that employers face. This will ensure Ireland has the breadth of skills needed for businesses to grow, which is a key element of the Government’s economic and employment strategy.”
Our approach
Skillnet Ireland networks operates under a joint investment model whereby learning networks can apply to receive up to 50 percent of the cost of training from Skillnet Ireland, and the remainder of costs are funded in matching contributions from participating businesses in the learning network. The approach has received international recognition as a model of best practice from the OECD, amongst others.
Funding applications for SMEs
Skillnet Ireland is also seeking applications from new groups of ambitious businesses aiming to address challenges through upskilling and reskilling. Applications for funding are open until September 30th 2019. To apply, visit www.skillnetireland.ie/funding
Skillnet Ireland is also holding information sessions next week for businesses, industry bodies or enterprise groups on how they can establish a Skillnet Network. The information sessions will take place in Athlone on May 22nd and in Dublin on May 23rd. The sessions are free, but you must register to attend. To register, click here.