Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) on behalf of the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) have established a new national directory of External Authenticators (EAs) for Further Education and Training programmes.
The External Authenticator provides independent confirmation of fair and consistent assessment of learners in accordance with QQI requirements and reports on consistency of assessment results with national standards.
Previous External Authentication experience is desirable but not essential. Interested individuals should have experience of delivering or assessing programmes leading to QQI awards, or associated industry expertise (5 years).
This EA Directory will serve those services in Education and Training Boards providing programmes leading to QQI awards.
Interested?
Updated information on upcoming External Authentication training
We would like to advise you that training is scheduled to be held in March 2026 for those interested in becoming an external authenticator. Please note that only the following field areas are being prioritised for training as they have been specifically identified as gap areas by the sector. These include:
| STEM & Environmental | Trades & Technical Skills |
| Engineering / Engineering Technology / Motor Technology Laboratory Techniques / Science Environmental Sustainability Horticulture Agriculture Animal Care Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician | Floor and Wall Tiling Large and Small Domestic Appliance Servicing Motor Vehicle Maintenance Door Security / Security Cleaning Skills |
| Arts, Humanities & Creative | Health, Care & Wellbeing |
| Art / Arts and Crafts Music Studies / Music Performance Theatre Performance Fashion / Fashion Design Photography Woodwork Gaeilge (Irish Language) | Community Health Services ELC Healthcare Support Nursing Studies Beauty Therapy Hairdressing Sports and Recreation |
| Business & Professional | |
| Business and IT / Computing Auctioneering Micro Credentials |
In order to be considered for training, please ensure that you have:
- Read the attached information on the website
- Experience of delivering subject matter training/teaching and/or 5 years relevant experience in subject matter area in Industry
- Read and complete the linked form expressing your interest, and ensure that you are available to attend all 3 days of whichever session you select, as full attendance is mandatory. Please note that this is not registration for the training programme and further information will be forwarded to interested applicants.
- Closing date for expressions of interest – February 16th 2026
For any further queries, please contact externalauthentication@etbi.ie