Springboard+ courses helped Louth brothers find careers after serving with Irish Defence Forces
Sean McCaffrey, from Dundalk, spent 16 years in the Irish Defence Forces, before completing a Certificate in Procurement Management from University College Cork, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership in Business from Technological University Dublin. He now works for Iarnród Éireann.
'I left school at 18 without completing my Leaving Certificate. I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life, so I joined the Irish Defence Forces where I spent 16 years. After leaving, I decided to pursue my first Springboard+ course — a Certificate in Procurement Management from University College Cork after which I was offered a job in Iarnród Éireann – a job I wouldn't have been in the running for only for my Springboard+ course.
'I saw tangible benefits immediately, so it was a no-brainer to start a level nine Post Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership in Business from Technological University Dublin, which enabled me to move up the career ladder with Iarnród Éireann, as sustainability is key to so many industries today.
'The impact of these courses has gone far beyond my professional life. They've boosted my confidence, opened doors I never thought possible, and improved my ability to support my young family thanks to flexible, hybrid learning. The experience has instilled in me a love of lifelong learning — something I encourage in everyone around me, including my siblings, who have all completed Springboard+ courses.
'Springboard+ gave me more than just qualifications — it provided me with new opportunities, a stronger sense of purpose, and the skills to be employable in a changing world.'
His brother Liam spent 17 years in the Irish Defence Forces, before completing Diploma in Management Practices from Carlow IT. Liam now works as a HR Operations Manager for the Higher Education Authority.
'I left school without a Leaving Cert and spent 17 years in the Irish Defence Forces — during which I struggled with basic writing skills. Before I transitioned to civilian life, I knew I needed to upskill to become more employable. My first Springboard+ course, a Diploma in Management Practices from Carlow IT, opened up a world I never knew existed, and I fell in love with 3rd level education.
"It didn't just improve my career prospects — it gave me the tools and confidence to build a better future for my family. When I started my role with the HEA, I knew things had changed for my family forever. Gone were the days of working three jobs and never being at home with my family — now I have a more fulfilling career with the time and flexibility to be with my family more often. I will be forever grateful to Springboard for providing me with an affordable way to improve the future for me and my children.
"Looking at my own growth through Springboard+ is incredible - comparing my first assignment to my final one is like night and day. Springboard+ didn't just equip me with skills, it gave me belief in myself, and that confidence has made its way through every part of my life, from my work to my family. Most of my siblings have completed Springboard+ courses, and my 22-year-old son is considering his first course. I never would have imagined us both in 3rd level education at the same time, but it's a testament to the quality of Springboard+ and the value of lifelong learning.'
Speaking about this year's programme, Dr Vivienne Patterson, Head of Skills, Engagement and Statistics at the Higher Education Authority said: 'There are many reasons to consider a Springboard+ course, but the two key benefits are the cost and the quality.
If you're eligible to apply for a full- or part-time Springboard+ course the most you'll pay is 10% of the fees. If you're currently out of work, you'll be 100% subsidised through the Springboard+ programme. The micro-credentials courses which last around 12 weeks are 50% subsidised for all participants.
In terms of the quality of the course and the qualification at the end of it – courses range from Certificate (Level 6) to Masters (Level 9) on the National Framework of Qualifications and are delivered by the best public and private higher education providers around the country.'
Since 2011, over €400m has been spent on Springboard+ and over 110,000 people have benefited from the programme to date.
Springboard+ courses are delivered both online and through blended learning and last up to one year. Courses are available on a part-time or full-time basis, offering more flexibility to learners.
Applications are made through the Springboard+ website (https://springboardcourses.ie/) and applications will open on 3rd June. All courses will commence between 1st July and 31st October 2025.
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