AONTAS Seeks Community Education Network (CEN) Members for Proposed Training Links Network
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Published on
March 26, 2026
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Join the AONTAS Training Links Network (2026–2028)
Together, we can build a stronger community education sector.
AONTAS is applying to the Training Links Programme 2026–2028 offered by The Wheel, and we are seeking Community Education Network member organisations to express their interest in joining our Training Links Network. Please note that this is an application for funding, so participation is subject to approval.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work collaboratively, access additional training resources, and build long-term organisational capacity across the community education sector.
What Is Training Links?
Training Links is a national initiative that unites community and voluntary organisations to create Training Networks, which are groups of at least 10 organisations working together on common training needs.
The funding is managed by The Wheel and part-funded by the National Training Fund under the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Over 20 months (July 2026–March 2028), networks codesign and deliver training that strengthens skills, supports staff, and creates lasting impact across the sector. Networks can apply for funding of €10,000 to €50,000 to deliver this work
Why Join the AONTAS Training Network?
By joining our network, your organisation will:
- Access high-quality, funded training
- Benefit from training designed around real needs and sector priorities.
- Strengthen your team and organisation.
- Improve confidence, capacity, governance, digital skills, and new ways of working.
- Collaborate with other CEN members.
- Share learning, build connections, and take part in a supportive peer network.
- Shape a strategic training plan.
Training Links Priority Areas are chosen by the CEN.
Our network will focus on shared needs expressed by the CEN. It could include the following priorities set out in the funding application:
- Digital Transformation – building confidence and digital readiness.
- Leadership & Management – strengthening strategy, governance, and effectiveness.
- Green Transition – embedding more sustainable work practices.
- New Business Models & Income Development – diversifying funding and partnerships
What We Ask from Network Members
We welcome CEN organisations that can commit to:
- Participating from July 2026 to March 2028
- Nominating a representative for the Training Network Committee
- Taking part in the design and delivery of training activities
- Confirming an appropriate governance structure (e.g., Board or Constitution)
What AONTAS Will Do?
As the Lead Organisation, AONTAS will:
- Coordinate the full network and its activities.
- Guide the identification of shared training needs.
- Manage all reporting, monitoring, and compliance requirements.
- Support member organisations throughout the programme.
- Oversee the training plan, delivery, and final evaluation.
We take care of the administration so organisations can focus on learning, capacity building, and collaboration.
If your organisation would like to be part of the AONTAS Training Links Network, please complete our short Expression of Interest form here: Training Links Network 2026 – 2028 – Fill out form
Deadline to submit an Expression of Interest: Friday, 17th April 2026
If you have any questions, you can contact Lorraine at loconnor@aontas.com
Please note: At this time, training offered through this programme will be available only to CEN members located in the Republic of Ireland.
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AONTAS Seeks Community Education Network (CEN) Members for Proposed Training Links Network
Written by
Published on
March 26, 2026
Share This
Join the AONTAS Training Links Network (2026–2028)
Together, we can build a stronger community education sector.
AONTAS is applying to the Training Links Programme 2026–2028 offered by The Wheel, and we are seeking Community Education Network member organisations to express their interest in joining our Training Links Network. Please note that this is an application for funding, so participation is subject to approval.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work collaboratively, access additional training resources, and build long-term organisational capacity across the community education sector.
What Is Training Links?
Training Links is a national initiative that unites community and voluntary organisations to create Training Networks, which are groups of at least 10 organisations working together on common training needs.
The funding is managed by The Wheel and part-funded by the National Training Fund under the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Over 20 months (July 2026–March 2028), networks codesign and deliver training that strengthens skills, supports staff, and creates lasting impact across the sector. Networks can apply for funding of €10,000 to €50,000 to deliver this work
Why Join the AONTAS Training Network?
By joining our network, your organisation will:
- Access high-quality, funded training
- Benefit from training designed around real needs and sector priorities.
- Strengthen your team and organisation.
- Improve confidence, capacity, governance, digital skills, and new ways of working.
- Collaborate with other CEN members.
- Share learning, build connections, and take part in a supportive peer network.
- Shape a strategic training plan.
Training Links Priority Areas are chosen by the CEN.
Our network will focus on shared needs expressed by the CEN. It could include the following priorities set out in the funding application:
- Digital Transformation – building confidence and digital readiness.
- Leadership & Management – strengthening strategy, governance, and effectiveness.
- Green Transition – embedding more sustainable work practices.
- New Business Models & Income Development – diversifying funding and partnerships
What We Ask from Network Members
We welcome CEN organisations that can commit to:
- Participating from July 2026 to March 2028
- Nominating a representative for the Training Network Committee
- Taking part in the design and delivery of training activities
- Confirming an appropriate governance structure (e.g., Board or Constitution)
What AONTAS Will Do?
As the Lead Organisation, AONTAS will:
- Coordinate the full network and its activities.
- Guide the identification of shared training needs.
- Manage all reporting, monitoring, and compliance requirements.
- Support member organisations throughout the programme.
- Oversee the training plan, delivery, and final evaluation.
We take care of the administration so organisations can focus on learning, capacity building, and collaboration.
If your organisation would like to be part of the AONTAS Training Links Network, please complete our short Expression of Interest form here: Training Links Network 2026 – 2028 – Fill out form
Deadline to submit an Expression of Interest: Friday, 17th April 2026
If you have any questions, you can contact Lorraine at loconnor@aontas.com
Please note: At this time, training offered through this programme will be available only to CEN members located in the Republic of Ireland.
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