About Learning Waves.

Learning Waves was set up in 2004 to provide training for those working in the Independent Commercial Radio Sector in Ireland and is an industry led initiative. The Network is funded by Skillnet Ireland (a government initiative) together with all of the Independent Commercial Radio Stations in the country. Currently there are 34 Independent Commercial Radio Stations in the network, together with IRS+, Urban Media, and Media Central. Alongside this, the networks works in partnership with the industry regulator, Coimisiún na Meán(previoulsy the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland) and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland(IBI). The network will continue to grow as the industry grows. The network currently represents 100% of the industry.

Learning Waves Structure.

Learning Waves' Chairperson is Patricia Monahan, Managing Editor, Newstalk and the board is made up of 12 members all representing different stations across the country. Sub-Committees have been set up for Sales, News, Music, Digital, IT & Engineering and Administration Training and these committees are responsible for identifying training needs in the respective disciplines. A full-time Project Manager, Teresa Hanratty, oversees the daily activities of Learning Waves.

Since its inception Learning Waves Skillnet has seen the industry pool its knowledge to its advantage, and has provided networking opportunities where the industry can explore ways to maximize their combined strength against competitors.

Since 2004, through the support that has been provided by Skillnet Ireland and member stations, over €3.21 million has been invested in training in the Independent Radio Sector. This has resulted in the provision of over 20,965 training days to over 5,685 participants.

Since its inception Learning Waves Skillnet has seen the industry pool its knowledge to its advantage, and has provided networking opportunities where the industry can explore ways to maximize their combined strength against competitors.

Access to Training Courses and Events.

Learning Waves Skillnet is a network member organisation, funded by Skillnet Ireland and the members of the network. All training courses are accessible to all members of the network and those working within each network member organisation. In addition to this, Learning Waves Skillnet, will from time to time, run courses for those who are looking to get into the industry. Such courses are accessed by an application process that is detailed at the time of advertising such courses. Application criteria will apply to all courses advertised.

In addition to this, Learning Waves may open courses to non-members for a nominated course fee during the year. The fee will be determined per course/event by the Project Manager and access will be confirmed by the Project Manager.

Since Covid19, all training courses are delivered online via Zoom. All courses are restricted in numbers, similar to numbers if the training was being held face-to-face. Numbers on each course are agreed with the Network Manager and trainer and access to all courses is approved by the Network Manager. If there is an issue with access to courses, individuals can send an email to info@learningwaves.ie and the network will respond to all queries.