A new Belfast-based apprenticeship programme has been launched with the aim of supporting women back into employment after extended absences due to childcare, caregiving, or health-related reasons.
Developed by recruitment entrepreneur and Inclusion IQ founder Laura Kearney, in collaboration with Springvale Learning, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between talented individuals seeking employment and businesses needing skilled professionals.
Many women face challenges when re-entering the job market, from reduced confidence and outdated skills to the need for flexible working arrangements. Traditional employment models often fail to accommodate those who require part-time hours or phased returns, leading to a loss of experienced and capable individuals from the workforce. This apprenticeship programme is seeking to change that by providing structured learning, career progression opportunities, and a supportive network to help women successfully transition back into work.
Unlike traditional apprenticeships, which often focus on entry-level workers, this initiative is designed specifically for those with prior experience who need support regaining their professional footing. The programme allows participants to follow a flexible learning structure that fits around their personal responsibilities, ensuring they can balance work and home life.
Laura believes this approach will unlock enormous potential for businesses and participants. She said: “We see so much talent being lost because of rigid employment structures,” she said. “By offering flexible apprenticeships, we are giving these women the chance to bring their expertise, commitment, and insight back into the workplace – benefiting them and the economy as a whole.” As a key partner in the initiative, Springvale Learning is committed to providing the right educational and professional framework to make it a success.
Shelly Higgins of Springvale Learning emphasised the wider benefits for employers: “Companies that embrace this approach will gain access to a workforce that is motivated, highly capable, and eager to contribute. It’s not just about filling roles – it’s about harnessing the skills and experience of people who bring valuable perspectives and work ethic to the table.” Many highly qualified and experienced women seeking to return to work struggle to find positions that accommodate part-time hours or phased working arrangements.
The apprenticeship model developed by Inclusion IQ and Springvale Learning aims to challenge this by encouraging businesses to adopt more adaptable approaches to employment.