'Up-skilling and enhancing the skills of Co-Op staff and management through structured training'

The aim of ICOS Skillnet, a national network of co-operatives was to provide targetted training to co-operative staff & management across the country in 2008 - 2009 to sustain competitiveness for the sector.

The network's performance has been outstanding with all contractual targets dramatically surpassed and a range of industry specific programmes developed including two Diplomas accredited at Levels 6 and 7 on the National Frame of Qualifications; namely the ICOS Skillnet/DIT CPD Diploma in Retail Management and ICOS Skillnet/UCC Diploma in Corporate Direction (Food Business).

Despite the economic downturn resulting in a reluctance of member companies to release staff and the uncertainty of Skillnets funding during 2009, the network overcame the challenges and delivered beyond all expectations. This was achieved by developing and actively promoting programmes and networking activities which were most relevant and needed as a result of the economic downturn. This flexibility and ability to adapt to the changing environment is testament to the effectiveness of enterprise-led training networks and commitment of the member companies.

Actual activity for 2008-2009 against contractual targets:

Trainees Target = 521 
Trainees Actual = 895

Trainee Days Target = 3,481
Trainee Days Actual = 8,622

The range of innovative, practical and relevant training programmes and activities have resulted in new opportunities being given to staff at all levels to increase their knowledge and skills base - such opportunities were not available to them before the existence of this training & development initiative.

The ICOS Skillnet was funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme, an initiative of Skillnets Ltd. funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

For further information contact Jana Sirotkova, ICOS Skillnet Project Manager - jana.sirotkova@icos.ie