Career Paths with QQI Level 6 Training and Development
To start a rewarding learning and development career path in Ireland, earning a recognised qualification like the QQI Level 6 Training and Development award is a smart first step. This certification equips you with the practical knowledge and teaching techniques required to deliver effective workforce training across various industries.
Key steps include completing the QQI Level 6 award, gaining relevant experience in corporate or adult training settings, and continuing professional development through recognised bodies. Whether you aim to become a corporate trainer in Ireland or step into instructional designer qualifications in Ireland, this pathway opens doors to a wide range of training development roles in Ireland.
With that in mind, let’s look at how you can begin a career as a training and development professional in Ireland.
Understanding the Training and Development Industry
Training and development is a vital sector within Ireland’s workforce infrastructure. It focuses on enhancing employee skills, improving performance, and supporting ongoing professional growth. This field plays a crucial role in large corporations, SMEs, government bodies, and the nonprofit sector alike.
In recent years, the demand for qualified trainers has increased significantly due to the rapid pace of digital transformation, hybrid work models, and upskilling needs promoted by initiatives such as the National Skills Strategy. Companies are investing more in professional development careers in Ireland, recognising the importance of engaging learning environments and measurable outcomes.
As a result, there is a strong market for QQI Level 6 Training and Development jobs across industries such as healthcare, IT, finance, retail, construction and adult education career Ireland options.
Core Responsibilities of a Training and Development Professional
In the Irish workplace context, training and development professionals are responsible for designing, delivering, and evaluating training programmes tailored to adult learners. Key responsibilities include:
- Needs Analysis: Assessing organisational training needs through interviews, job analysis, or performance data.
- Programme Design: Creating structured learning programmes that align with national standards and business objectives.
- Facilitation: Delivering engaging and interactive training sessions in group, one-to-one, or virtual settings.
- Evaluation: Measuring training effectiveness using feedback forms, assessments, and outcome metrics.
- Compliance Training: Delivering essential training related to health and safety, equality, and workplace regulations in Ireland.
- Continuous Development: Staying updated on learning technologies, training legislation, and adult learning methodologies.
These professionals often work within HR training specialist roles or as freelance QQI accredited trainer jobs offering bespoke training solutions.
Essential Soft Skills
Success in training and development relies not only on qualifications but also on essential soft skills. Employers in Ireland value the ability to connect with adult learners, tailor communication styles, and foster a collaborative environment. Key soft skills include:
- Strong Communication: Clear, confident presentation and active listening skills.
- Empathy: Understanding adult learner challenges and adapting methods accordingly.
- Creativity: Designing dynamic and memorable learning experiences.
- Organisational Skills: Managing multiple training programmes, schedules, and learner progress.
- Adaptability: Responding to feedback and redesigning content as needed.
- Analytical Thinking: Measuring programme impact based on learning objectives and business KPIs.
Steps to Becoming a Training and Development Professional in Ireland
Step 1: Complete the QQI Level 6 Training and Development modules. These include Training Delivery & Evaluation and Training Needs Identification & Design—both are essential for national recognition.
Step 2: Gain hands-on experience. This might be within HR departments, learning consultancies, or voluntary training roles with local organisations or community initiatives.
Step 3: Build a professional portfolio. Include feedback, lesson plans, learning materials, and training evaluations to showcase your abilities to potential employers.
Step 4: Join a professional body. Organisations such as the Irish Institute of Training and Development or CIPD Ireland offer valuable networking and resource opportunities to support your growth.
Step 5: Keep upskilling. Consider progressing towards Level 7 or 8 qualifications or explore instructional designer qualifications Ireland to future-proof your career in digital learning design.
Salaries and Career Growth
In Ireland, salaries for training and development roles depend on experience, sector and location, with Dublin typically offering the highest remuneration. Average salaries include:
- Entry-Level/Junior Trainer: €30,000 – €38,000 per annum
- Mid-Level Learning Specialist: €40,000 – €55,000 per annum
- Senior Learning & Development Manager: €60,000 – €85,000+ per annum
Your workplace learning career progression can lead to strategic roles such as Head of Learning & Development, Instructional Designer, or Organisational Development Consultant. Those pursuing adult education career Ireland roles may also move into programme coordination or policy advising at national education bodies.
Courses and Certifications
The core qualification for entering this field in Ireland is the QQI Level 6 Training and Development award, which includes two mandatory components:
- Training Needs Identification & Design (Level 6, 6N3325)
- Training Delivery & Evaluation (Level 6, 6N3326)
Additional certifications for career growth in professional development careers Ireland include:
- Advanced QQI Awards (Level 7 or 8 in HR or Education)
- DMI certifications (for digital training roles)
- CIPD or ILM certifications in learning and development
If you would like to find out more about certification and the courses available to you, just get in touch or complete the form below.
