Cooney scores further education goals through prior learning
Former Westmeath football manager Jack Cooney credits the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process for helping him reach new career heights when he switched sidelines for deadlines.
The transition from full-time employment to academia can be daunting, but for Jack Cooney, the journey proved to be a game-changer.
Leveraging the RPL process at University of Limerick (UL), Cooney turned years of practical coaching and sports science experience into a new academic and professional trajectory, culminating in his role as the GAA’s National Player Development Lead.
RPL is a five-year National Project funded by the Higher Education Authority’s Human Capital Initiative. The project allows learners to gain entry to higher education programmes or receive exemptions based on their prior learning—whether formal, non-formal, or experiential.
“The RPL process was a fantastic opportunity,” said Cooney, who completed a Master's in Sports Performance at the UL.
“I entered the course in UL as a mature student. My initial degree was in business, many years ago and a post-grad in marketing. I had also studied a sports science degree part-time but wanted to go beyond that and continue my learning.
“I was anxious to do a Masters in sports science and sports performance and was thrilled to discover that through RPL, I could translate the years of hands-on experience I’d gained playing for and managing Westmeath into something tangible for my application. That recognition gave me the confidence to take the leap back into third-level education.”
The impact of the programme on Jack’s career has been profound.
“Since completing the course, I’ve coached at the highest levels within the GAA and now hold a national leadership role in Croke Park. My time at UL has absolutely propelled me to bigger and better opportunities, allowing me to apply the knowledge I gained in ways that benefit players and the sport as a whole.”
For anyone considering a return to education, he offers this advice: “If you have the experience, let it work for you”.
“The RPL pathway recognises the value of practical knowledge and gives you the chance to take your skills to the next level.”
Cooney is just one of around 15,000 learners in Ireland who will have accessed further education through RPL by the time the project finishes in 2025.
Dr Ciara Staunton, Director of the National RPL Project, said RPL allows those seeking a step into academic life a flexible and practical bridge into higher education.
“We hope to raise awareness that work and life experience hold valuable recognition in higher education. We encourage individuals to explore RPL as a meaningful pathway toward achieving their qualifications,” she said.
RPL allows individuals to use their work experience and life skills to gain access to higher education across 14 partner institutions nationwide from a level 6 certificate right through to level 10 doctoral degrees.
For more information, visit www.priorlearning.ie.