This year over 6,400 free places will be on offer nationwide. Homemakers are eligible to participate in Springboard+ courses for the first time this year too and there is also wider availability for those in employment or self-employment who wish to upskill or reskill in the Biopharma/Medtech and ICT sectors.
Commenting ahead of the information day, Dr Vivienne Patterson, Head of Skills and Engagement at the Higher Education Authority said: "Springboard+ courses are an excellent opportunity for anyone considering returning to work, reskilling or upskilling. There are courses in a vast array of sectors ranging from tech to culinary arts and from entrepreneurship to pharma.
"The information day is an excellent opportunity to come along and chat to the colleges and institutions that are providing the Springboard+ courses and have all your questions answered.
"Career advisors will also be present at the Information Day which is an invaluable service for anyone attending. At the guidance stand, we have trained counsellors on hand to chat to attendees and answer very specific questions that individuals might have. It allows people to check if they're eligible for Springboard+ and also get professional advice about what type of course might suit them best, based on their areas of interest, their previous experience and their future plans.
Springboard+ has been successful at equipping people with the skills they need to get back into the workforce. Oxana Sereda completed the Msc in Computing through the Springboard+ ICT Skills Conversion Programme. Commenting on her experience, Ms. Sereda said: "I was at a stage in my life where I wanted to change careers and decided on venturing into the exciting world of cyber security. This was a life-changing decision for me, taken during a difficult time: I became a full-time student while also being a mother to two children – I had plenty to keep me occupied!
"The course itself was absolutely fantastic and everyone was always so easy to approach and willing to help which created a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that really put you at ease.