Donegal apprentices were awarded the QQI Advanced Certificate Craft on Thursday in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo as they celebrated their achievement in being recognised as highly skilled craftspersons.
Apprentices from Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Mayo and Galway joined together to celebrate the completion of their apprenticeship, which marks the first step in embracing a wide range of career opportunities.
Congratulating them on their achievement, Paul O’Toole, CEO, SOLAS, acknowledged their hard work and commitment and recognised the efforts made in achieving this distinction.
It was also acknowledged that this success was made possible by the support and encouragement of their families, employers, tutors and friends, many of whom attended the ceremony to applaud their success.
Apprenticeship is a very valuable career option with real employment prospects at the end of intensive on and off-the-job training.
The qualification received is valued nationally and internationally in the labour market and forms an integral part of the National Framework of Qualifications.
A number of graduates were unable to attend the Ceremony having pursued successful careers abroad owing to the high level of recognition which the Advanced Certificate affords.
Over the last year there has been an increased focus on Apprenticeships. Under the guidance of the Apprenticeship Council, the apprenticeship system in Ireland is expanding.
At the moment over 20 new apprenticeships are being developed in new sectors including Financial Services, Insurance, HGV Driving and Baking.
Alongside this there has been an increase in the number of new apprentices being registered across all of the current trades. This is a testament to the high regard which the apprenticeship system in Ireland is held. It has long been respected as a comprehensive and successful career and education route for people of all ages.
The Donegal ETB Apprenticeship Team welcome all queries for further information on apprenticeship. Please telephone 074 9120500 if you would like to talk to an Advisor.
For further information on how to become an apprentice, apprenticeship occupations, eligibility criteria, recruiting an apprentice and frequently asked questions visit DonegalETB.ie
