National Learning Network Marks Major Employment Milestone with Free National Webinar

National Learning Network (NLN) has supported more than 1,000 people with disabilities into employment over the past five years, as part of its mission to break down barriers to education, training and meaningful work opportunities across Ireland.

Now, NLN is inviting parents, employers, educators, health professionals and prospective students to attend a free national webinar exploring how people with disabilities can be supported into education and sustainable employment.

The webinar, Paths to Employment with NLN: Supporting Individuals with Disabilities into Education and Work, takes place on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026, from 2 pm to 3 pm and will feature expert speakers, employer perspectives and real-life student success stories.

The event forms part of Rehab Group’s national #MoreThanAJob campaign, launched in December 2025, which aims to transform how Ireland supports people with disabilities into meaningful employment.

Work has the power to change lives, not only financially but also by building confidence, independence and purpose. The webinar will explore the practical supports, inclusive learning pathways and employment opportunities available through NLN services nationwide.

Speakers will include Adrian Stewart, Head of Employability with Rehab Group, who has over 30 years’ experience in the disability sector and works closely with employers to improve access to meaningful careers for people with disabilities.

Also speaking is Lisa Haugh, Area Manager with National Learning Network, who has more than 25 years’ experience supporting students with additional needs through person-centred vocational training, rehabilitation programmes and employment supports.

The webinar will also hear from employer Seán Mullan, founder and managing director of Third Space social enterprise café in Dublin, who will discuss the value of inclusive hiring and his experience employing NLN graduates.

Attendees will also hear directly from Bantry woman, Shannon Mulqueen, owner of Blue Raven Photography and former NLN Bantry student, who credits NLN with helping her build both her business and her confidence.

Specialising in equine and canine photography, Shannon said the experience transformed her belief in what was possible for her future.

“When I started with NLN, I had the passion and creativity, but I lacked confidence in myself and my abilities,” she said.

“Through modules such as Personal Effectiveness, Customer Service and IT Skills, I gained the tools and belief I needed to take my business seriously. NLN didn’t just help me build a business, they helped me believe that I could build one.”

National Learning Network provides accessible courses, QQI-certified vocational training, rehabilitative training and personalised supports designed to help students reach their full potential and progress into employment, further education and independent living.

The webinar will showcase how inclusive education and employment pathways can create life-changing opportunities for individuals while also supporting employers in building more inclusive workplaces.

Director of National Learning Network, Dr Rita Day said: “At NLN, our mission is to remove the barriers that too often stand in the way of education, training and employment for people with disabilities. Every day, we see the transformative impact that personalised supports, inclusive learning environments and employer partnerships can have on someone’s confidence, independence and future opportunities.

“We work with hundreds of employers across Ireland to help create meaningful pathways into employment, and this webinar is an opportunity for parents, educators, employers, health professionals and prospective students to better understand the supports available through NLN and the life-changing difference they can make.”

The free webinar takes place on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026 from 2pm to 3pm. People can register here Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams or contact info@nln.ie for further information. Those unable to attend live can still register to receive a recording after the event.

ENDS