Minister James Lawless TD
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
The landscape of education and training in Ireland is changing, shaped by evolving workforce needs and changing expectations among learners.
People want practical skills that lead to opportunity, while employers are looking for talent ready to contribute from day one.
How apprenticeships prepare work-ready talent
2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for their growth and, crucially, their diversification, with new pathways emerging across sectors key to our economy and public services.
By combining learning with real‑world experience, apprenticeships offer a practical and flexible pathway for people at different stages of life and career. Today, there are over 80 apprenticeship programmes available, reflecting a broader and more responsive system.
Expanding this system is central to delivering on the Government’s commitment to 12,500 apprenticeship registrations annually by 2030, as set out in the Programme for Government. This ambition is backed by record investment, with an additional €79 million provided through Budget 2026.
For many, apprenticeships still bring to mind trades like electricians, mechanics or plumbers. While these opportunities continue growing, my department and I are focusing on expanding apprenticeships into careers that were once only accessible through traditional academic routes.
In responding to changing learning expectations and workforce needs, apprenticeships are widening access to opportunity while strengthening the talent pipeline.
Apprenticeships beyond trade
New launches are happening across a range of sectors, including a new Business and Operations apprenticeship delivered by Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board, a Social Care apprenticeship with UCC and MTU and a Paramedic apprenticeship with UCC.
The Business and Operations apprenticeship is particularly significant. Delivered across public and private sectors, with the Consortium Steering Group chaired by Lidl, it provides a new entry route into public service roles, beginning with the Civil Service. By broadening access and attracting more diverse talent, it supports the development of a Civil Service that is skilled, representative and future‑ready.
As more new apprenticeships, including Robotics and Automation and Firefighting, come on stream later this year, the system’s continued expansion reflects a clear shift in how Ireland develops skills and builds careers. In responding to changing learning expectations and workforce needs, apprenticeships are widening access to opportunity while strengthening the talent pipeline.
