SOLAS (An tSeirbhís Oideachais Leanúnaigh agus Scileanna) Company Profile

Background

Established in 2013 under the Further Education and Training Act, SOLAS serves as Ireland's Further Education and Training (FET) Authority. Operating under the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, SOLAS is tasked with the strategic coordination and funding of the FET sector. Its mission is to drive responsiveness, innovation, transformation, sustainability, and success within the FET and apprenticeship systems, focusing on the needs of learners and apprentices. The vision of SOLAS is to empower individuals, communities, and enterprises through lifelong learning and workforce transformation.

Key Strategic Focus

SOLAS's strategic objectives include developing and implementing a national strategy for FET delivery, consulting with key stakeholders, coordinating with the National Public Employment Service (Intreo) to provide training for job seekers, and advancing funds to Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and other training bodies. The organization emphasizes evidence-based planning, excellence in program development, innovation, collaboration, and a learner-centered approach.

Financials and Funding

SOLAS's budget is primarily allocated to grants for ETBs, program costs, grants to other organizations, staff pay and overheads, and pension costs. The organization serves as the designated Intermediate Body for the European Social Fund Programme for Employment, Inclusion, Skills, and Training (EIST) 2021-2027, with eligible FET programs co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund (ESF+).

Pipeline Development

SOLAS manages a range of FET programs, including Apprenticeships, Traineeships, Skills to Advance, eCollege, and the European Globalisation Fund. Additionally, it oversees the Safe Pass Health and Safety Awareness Training Programme, the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), and the Quarrying Skills Certification Scheme (QSCS). Current courses are accessible through www.fetchcourses.ie.

Technological Platform and Innovation

SOLAS manages the National Skills Database, providing research, data, and analysis to inform policy and practice in the FET sector. The organization emphasizes evidence-based planning and maintains a central focus on standards and quality in FET, including excellence in program development and the ongoing professional development of the FET workforce.

Leadership Team

The SOLAS Board is accountable to the Minister of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and is responsible for ensuring good governance. The Board consists of a Chairperson and 11 ordinary members, all appointed by the Minister. The CEO and the senior management team follow the strategic direction set by the Board. The Board has three sub-committees: Audit and Risk Committee; Strategic Planning Committee; and Workforce and Organisational Development Committee.

Key Board Members:

Andrew Brownlee: CEO of SOLAS.

Sean Aylward: Chairperson, Former Secretary General, Department of Justice and Equality.

Dr. Kevin Marshall: Head of Learning & Skills, Microsoft Ireland.

Siobhan O’Shea: Director, Indeed.

Catrina Sheridan: Chief Executive Officer, Sightsavers Ireland.

Dearbháil Lawless: CEO, Aontas.

Niall O'Donnellan: Independent Strategy Advisor.

Sheila Gallagher: Chief Financial Officer, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.

Orla Coughlan: Management Consultant and Non-Executive Director.

Michael Murphy: Principal, Mayo College of Further Education and Training, MSLETB.

Susan Colley Doyle: Director of Finance and Business Support, Carton House.

Jim Meade: Chief Executive Officer, Iarnród Éireann.

Patrick Atkinson: Chief Executive, Chadwicks Group.

Leadership Changes

In December 2023, Minister Simon Harris invited expressions of interest to fill two vacancies on the SOLAS Board, seeking candidates with extensive experience in senior management, workplace relations, or representing the needs and interests of learners.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The FET sector in Ireland is a critical component of the education system, providing pathways for diverse groups of learners and preparing individuals for successful careers and lifelong learning. SOLAS plays a significant role in driving strategic reform and ensuring the delivery of education, training, and skills that enable individuals to succeed in the labor market and thrive in society.

Competitor Analysis

As the primary authority for FET in Ireland, SOLAS operates in a unique position with limited direct competitors. However, it collaborates and coordinates with various stakeholders, including Education and Training Boards (ETBs), the National Public Employment Service (Intreo), and other training bodies, to deliver comprehensive education and training programs.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

SOLAS works closely with Regional Skills managers and partners in Education and Training Boards nationally to manage a range of FET programs. It also coordinates with the National Public Employment Service (Intreo) to deliver training programs to those seeking employment. Additionally, SOLAS serves as the designated Intermediate Body for the European Social Fund Programme for Employment, Inclusion, Skills, and Training (EIST) 2021-2027, with eligible FET programs co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund (ESF+).

Operational Insights

SOLAS's strategic considerations include evidence-based planning, maintaining a central focus on standards and quality in FET, promoting innovation, fostering collaboration across the FET sector, and ensuring that the learner experience is at the center of decision-making.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

SOLAS aims to be the leading voice for Further Education and Training in Ireland, exemplify best practices in corporate governance, serve as the leading hub of labor market intelligence, have a positive impact on individuals, communities, and businesses, and be client-centered and outward-facing.