The National Framework of Qualifications forms the basis of a new, more flexible and integrated system of qualifications. The need for such a system arises in the main from the national objective of moving towards a ‘lifelong learning society’ in which learners will be enabled to take up learning opportunities at chosen stages throughout their lives.

Prior Learning Encompasses:

1. Formal Learning, which takes place through programmes of study or training, delivered by education or training providers which attract awards.
2. Non-formal learning that takes place alongside the main streams of education and training. It may be assessed but does not normally lead to certification. Examples of non-formal learning are: learning and training activities undertaken in the workplace, voluntary sector or trade union and community bases learning.
3. Informal learning that takes place through life and work experience (and is sometimes referred to as experiential learning). Often, it is learning that is unintentional and the learner may not recognise at the time of the experience that it contributed to his/her knowledge, skills and competences.

Enniscorthy Vocational College in conjunction with FETAC (QQI) is committed to implementing the RPL Policy to enable assess to our courses for all learners. This involves an evaluation of all the individuals learning to date so as to determine their capacity to participate on their chosen course.

Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)

On November 6^th 2012, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) www.qqi.ie was established as a new integrated agency (replacing FETAC, HETAC, NQAI and incorporating the functions of IUQB). FETAC, HETAC, NQAI are now dissolved. Awards and qualifications formerly made by FETAC continue to be recognised, because they are on the National Framework of Qualifications. If you are enrolled on a programme leading to a FETAC award, your award will now be made by QQI, under FETAC processes.