About
Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board (www.kwetb.ie) was established under the Education and Training Boards Act 2013. It is the driving force for education and training in both counties, providing high quality services which are innovative, responsive and inclusive.
Kildare and Wicklow’s ETB’s target clients are learners in our schools, colleges, training centres and community settings, applicants under the various learner support schemes administered by Kildare and Wicklow ETB such as Youth Service Providers, Community Education and Training Groups, Voluntary Community Organisations and Communities throughout the locality.
KWETB's Training Services Department forms part of the wider KWETB organisation, focusing on providing a range of fully funded educational and training opportunities aimed at upskilling and reskilling those aged 16 and over. The courses are designed to equip the learner with skills to gain employment, career advancement or further education. More information on KWETB/KWETB Training Services.
Skills to Advance
Apprenticeships
Traineeships
Specific Skills
Skills to Advance (STA)
Skills to Advance is an Irish Government initiative designed to support workforce upskilling and reskilling. It provides targeted training opportunities for employees, particularly those in lower-skilled jobs, to improve their employability and career prospects. The program also helps employers enhance their workforce capabilities to remain competitive in evolving industries.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a structured program that combines on-the-job training with classroom-based education, allowing individuals to learn practical skills while earning a wage. It's a pathway to gaining a recognised qualification and hands-on experience in a specific trade or profession.
Apprenticeships are often supported by government and industry partnerships to ensure training aligns with workforce needs. They are designed to help individuals transition directly into employment or enhance their career prospects in specialised roles.
Traineeships
A traineeship is a structured program that combines classroom-based education with practical work experience to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed for specific roles in the workplace. It is a shorter and more flexible alternative to apprenticeships, often focusing on entry-level skills. The course is typically suited to learners who are currently unemployed, change career or re-enter the labour market.
Specific Skills Training (SST)
Specific Skills Training (SST) is for learners who are currently unemployed, wish to change career or reenter the labour market. These targeted educational courses are designed to provide individuals with the skills and competencies required for specific roles, industries, or tasks. It is highly focused on particular skill sets, making the courses ideal for industries or professions where specialised knowledge is essential.
The Enterprise Engagement Team
Having worked for many years in financial services, Olivia specialises in assisting employers bridge skill gaps, empowering their workforce to drive innovation and business success. Leveraging her experience and business acumen, she develops micro-qualifications that address future skill gaps in transversal workplace competencies.
Having worked in the Further Education area for many years in various capacities, Bernice launched the Enterprise Engagement Team. Bernice focuses on managing client relations and developing bespoke courses to meet individual company needs.