Kerry ETB delivers programmes leading to Major, Special Purpose and Advanced Certificates, together with programmes leading to non-QQI awards. A structured application process applies to colleges and centres seeking to develop a new programme:
- Information on the resource and staff requirements is reviewed by the FET Management Group. Having reviewed the resources and staffing requirements for the proposed programme, the FET Management Group can recommend the proposal to the Programme Governance Board.
- The Programme Governance Board reviews the proposal as recommended by the FET Management Group. If approved a working group will be established to undertake the work of developing the new programme. This work is coordinated by the QA Unit.
- When the new programme has been developed- the Programme Governance Board reviews all programme documentation and recommends the programme to the Quality Council for approval and submission to the awarding body for validation.
Kerry ETB recognises the importance of the separation of programme development, the recommendation for approval, and approval. There are three defined points in the development of a new programme. Each point is core to the procedure followed by the governance units of Kerry ETB in submitting new programmes for
- Recommendation of the proposal to develop a new programme (FET Management Group)
- Approval of the proposal (Programme Governance Board)
- Approval of the documentation to be submitted to the awarding body (Quality Council)
Click here to view the New Programme Approval, Development and Validation Policy
Kerry ETB is in the process of grouping its full suite of FET programmes into discrete categories in order to
- Courses for Employment [NFQ Level 5-6]
- Courses for HE Progression [NFQ Level 5-6]
- Bridging Skills [NFQ Level 3-4]
- Foundation Skills [NFQ Level 1-2
In parallel, we have also commenced a review of two specific programmes- the Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts and National Tour Guiding-. The review is identifying aspects of these programmes that are working well, and areas where improvement is needed. Our engagement with programme review will help us to build the capacity of both subject matter experts and members of our Programme Governance Board, specifically in relation to making informed decisions about programmes of education and training. In the coming years, Kerry ETB will prioritise programmes for review where there is an identified need for change to a particular programme and by volume of learners.
