The Flexible Skills Fund has been established to help upskill and reskill individuals to meet the needs of the economy as we emerge from the pandemic and continue to grow the Economy beyond it. The fund is aligned to the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy and will provide learning opportunities reflecting the key objectives outlined within the strategy. It will serve to boost participation in lifelong learning and reduce key skills imbalances in areas such as digital, leadership and healthcare.

Due to high levels of demand applications are considered on a first come first served basis, course applications close once maximum capacity is reached. Applicants must meet the Skill Up entry criteria and the specific course entry criteria.

How do I apply?

Applications for the 2024/2025 courses will open shortly for classes starting from September 2024 onwards

For further course information see below:

Full details on courses running under Skill Up for 2024/25 will be confirmed shortly

Hospitality

Green Skills

Health & Social Care / Childcare

Advanced Manufacturing Courses

Leadership & Management Courses

Software

The Flexible Skills Fund programme will be accessible to all groups, those in employment and unemployment. To be eligible for these courses participants must be:

• over 18 years of age;
• eligible to work in Northern Ireland;
• settled’ in Northern Ireland, and has been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years; or
• is a person who has indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK
• specific course entry criteria