QA guidelines on work-integrated learning

QQI is working with a project team to develop a new set of topic-specific statutory quality assurance guidelines for programmes that include work-integrated learning. It is anticipated that the guidelines will encompass a broad spectrum of provision, e.g. work experience; apprenticeship; internship; professional practice placement; traineeship; work-based projects etc.

An important objective in the development of the guidelines is that they are responsive to current practice in Irish FET and HE. The first phase of this work will therefore be to engage with education and training providers; educators involved in the provision of work-integrated learning; learners; employers; professional, statutory and regulatory bodies; and other stakeholders to understand their views, experiences and interests in work-integrated learning.

Stakeholder surveys

To inform this work, a series of surveys has been launched aimed at the following stakeholder groups:

1). FET & HE educators involved in the delivery of work-integrated learning

2). Individuals in FET & HE providers involved in the quality assurance of work-integrated learning

3). Employers engaged in the delivery of work-integrated learning https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/EmployerPerspectivesWIL

4). Professional, statutory & regulatory bodies

Focus group sessions

A series of focus group sessions has also been arranged, at which we would particularly like to hear from FET and HE learners enrolled in programmes that involve work-integrated learning.

Learners who may be interested in participating in these sessions can register here.

QQI encourages all stakeholders to engage with this important phase in the development of the guidelines. It is anticipated that draft guidelines will be published for consultation in March 2025.