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SOLAS eCollege
Supporting Digital Skills and Lifelong Learning Through the SOLAS eCollege Framework
Virtual College is proud to be an appointed framework member on the SOLAS eCollege Framework Agreement for the Provision of Online Courses and Related Services, supporting Ireland’s national further education and training strategy through high-quality digital learning.
Our appointment under Lot 2 – Business Management and Lot 4 – Other Skills reflects Virtual College’s capability to deliver flexible, learner-focused online provision that meets rigorous public sector standards and supports lifelong learning at scale.
A National Framework for Flexible Online Learning
Established by SOLAS, Ireland’s Further Education and Training Authority, the eCollege framework provides a compliant and transparent route to market for the procurement of online courses and related services. The framework enables SOLAS and its framework clients to access high-quality digital learning provision through a structured, competitive process.
For learners, this means access to relevant, flexible courses that support upskilling, reskilling and progression. For the public sector, it ensures assurance around quality, governance and value for money.
Focused Provision Across Key Skills Areas
Virtual College’s appointment covers two core lots:
- Business Management – supporting learners to develop leadership, management and professional skills aligned to modern workplace needs
- Other Skills – providing access to a broad range of specialist and transferable skills that enhance employability and adaptability
All services are delivered online, enabling learners to access learning flexibly alongside work, study or other commitments.
Quality-Led Procurement and Fair Competition
Contracts under the framework are awarded through mini-competitions, ensuring fairness, transparency and value. Award decisions are based on a strong emphasis on quality (70%), alongside cost (30%), reinforcing SOLAS’s commitment to outcomes, learner experience and effective delivery.
This approach aligns closely with Virtual College’s own focus on quality-led provision, robust instructional design and measurable learning impact.
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Strong Governance, Compliance and Assurance
Operating within the SOLAS framework requires full compliance with Irish and EU procurement, competition and taxation laws, alongside strict standards around confidentiality, conflicts of interest and ethical conduct.
Virtual College is fully aligned with these requirements, delivering services:
- In compliance with all applicable legislation
- In line with agreed tender submissions and service specifications
- With robust data protection, confidentiality and information governance controls
- Through transparent reporting and contract management arrangements
This ensures confidence for SOLAS, framework clients and learners alike.
Partnership, Trust and Accountability
The framework is underpinned by clear governance arrangements, including defined escalation routes, dispute resolution processes and performance management provisions. This structure supports collaborative working while ensuring accountability and service continuity throughout the framework term.
By operating within this framework, Virtual College works in partnership with SOLAS to support national skills priorities and deliver learning that is accessible, relevant and impactful.
Looking Ahead
Being part of the SOLAS eCollege Framework Agreement reinforces Virtual College’s commitment to supporting lifelong learning, digital skills development and workforce readiness across Ireland.
We are proud to contribute to eCollege’s mission by delivering high-quality online learning that supports individuals, employers and the wider economy—today and into the future.
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Discover Our Approved and Trusted Frameworks
Procuring through a framework enables our customers to easily access the products and services they require without a lengthy, costly procurement process.
We’ve been accepted on to several national and regional Frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems to ensure it is as easy as possible for you to purchase from Virtual College by Netex.
Do you want to know more?
Are you looking to procure through a framework not listed above, or need advice on the best route to market?
Contact Us