Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) is the national representative body established to collectively represent the sixteen Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and promote their interests, which is recognised by the Minister for the purposes of the Education and Training Boards Act 2013. ETBI comprises of the staff of ETBI, the ETBI Chief Executives, Directors of Further Education and Training, Directors of Schools, Directors of Organisation, Support and Development Forums and the respective networks and groups associated with these forums.

To lead and advance the continued development of education, training and youth work in Ireland.

To harness our strength to influence and promote a strong education and training sector through collaboration and collective effort.

ETBI’s five core values represent the core values of the ETB sector working collectively. Core values are like “branding” but on the inside. They help ETBI to make informed decisions and unify the culture. This will help ETBI hold ourselves accountable and others accountable in decision-making and in our engagement with partners and other stakeholders.

Values
  • Excellence includes excellence in education, training, and support. It is underpinned by the core values of care, respect, community, and equality. Excellence encompasses outcomes, experiences, and expectations of people involved.
  • Care is about the welfare, wellbeing, and safety of all who are involved in education and training. It is exemplified in meaningful relationships, connectedness, and empathy, alongside support and solidarity.
  • Equality is about treating everyone equally and recognising and celebrating the diversity of those involved in education, training, and youth work. It is exemplified in targeting resources on those who have need and prioritising a culture of inclusion.
  • Community encompasses learners, their families, staff, and the local communities in which our services are based. It is about having shared vision, values and purpose, a sense of belonging, and a voice that is listened to. It is exemplified in productive collaboration, positive contributions, and effective communication amongst all stakeholders.
  • Respect is about upholding the dignity, rights, and recognition of the identity and background of all those involved in education, training, and youth work. It is exemplified in relationships between all stakeholders, and decision-making that impacts positively on the rights, feelings, and aspirations of the diversity of people.