On 31 August, we hosted the first Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Workshop at our office in Blackrock, Dublin. The workshop was attended by representatives from nine education bodies.

Our Director of Education Policy and Standards, Carolyn Donohoe began by welcoming attendees.

Our Professional Officer Lorraine Clarke Bishop gave an introduction to RPL from NMBI’s perspective and particularly in relation to the new Graduate Entry Nursing Education Programmes Standards and Requirements.

Órla Barry, Senior Manager, Qualifications Information and Learning Opportunities (QQI), gave a short presentation on the importance of RPL and considering the process from the perspective of the learner.

Dr Clare Walsh, Recognition of Prior Learning in HE Project: Head of Staff Development THEA, presented to the group on the RPL in Higher Education Project. Her presentation gave a brief overview of the RPL project followed by a questions and answers session.

Group discussions took place on key topics around RPL and what it means to the education of nurses and midwives.

Further workshops will be held before the end of the year with the next one scheduled for the end of October.

We would like to thank everyone who attended the workshop for their input and look forward to engaging with our stakeholders in future workshops.