RPL launches inaugural RPL Month
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) project has launched its inaugural National RPL Month in November to highlight how lifelong learners can forge a more flexible pathway to and through higher education.
Kicking off on Monday, 4 November the month will feature a host of events and activities across the 14 higher education institutions that it partners with nationwide.
RPL is a National Project funded by the Higher Education Authority and Human Capital Initiative. The project allows learners to gain entry to higher education programmes or receive exemptions based on their prior learning—whether it’s formal, non-formal, or experiential.
In its fourth year, RPL has brought around 15,000 learners in Ireland through its process to date as it continues to be strengthened and streamlined in higher education institutions nationwide.
Grace Edge, the National Project Director for the RPL project said the month is a call to action for those seeking a flexible pathway to and through higher education.
Many of the 14 institutions will host events and activities highlighting opportunities for learners and the role RPL can play in recognising skills and knowledge individuals have gained through experience—whether in work, education, or life.
RPL allows individuals to use their work experience and life skills to gain access to higher education from a level 6 certificate, right through to level 10 doctoral degrees.
“There is an urgency to to continue to embed RPL into Ireland’s education system, particularly to recognise non-formal and informal learning. By doing so, we create greater access and progression opportunities in areas with critical skills shortages,” Ms Edge said.
“RPL can help workers to progress into high-demand roles in sectors such as cybersecurity and sustainable technologies, addressing workforce shortages while also contributing to a more inclusive and adaptable society and economy.”
She is also calling on business owners and managers to consider RPL for their teams.
“Ireland needs to quickly skill and reskill workers for in-demand roles, removing barriers for a more flexible pathways to higher education. Companies should ask about RPL when discussing talent development and skills needs with higher education institutions,” she said.
An RPL Learner Guide will also be launched during National RPL Month and the events also incorporates College Awareness Week, which runs from November 18 to 24 as part of a national multi-organisational campaign to promote the benefits of college and help prepare students of all ages.
“With the launch of RPL Month, we aim to raise awareness that work and life experience hold valuable recognition in higher education. We encourage individuals to explore RPL as a meaningful pathway toward achieving their qualifications.”
For more information and to see a full list of events, visit www.priorlearning.ie.