THE Accounting Technician Apprenticeship is a new and practical pathway to a career in accounting, which off ers schoolleavers and mature learners the chance to take part in a fully funded work-based learning programme.
Accounting Technician Apprentices get paid at least 19k per annum, pay no college fees and enjoy generous study leave in the run-up to exams.
The programme leads to a Level 6 Advanced Certifi cate in Accounting, full membership of Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI) and access to a fast-growing jobs market in the sector. Graduates can also pursue further study with Chartered Accountants Ireland, other professional accountancy bodies and higher education institutions.
Apprentices work in the office four days a week, and study one day a week at a local college, putting learnings into practice over two years.
“I was instantly drawn to the fact that I could work in the accounting environment and study at the same time. It is a great way of learning,” says Eamon Landers, who’s working in the Finance Department at Ballyhoura Development in Limerick and studying at Cork College of Commerce.
Apprentices are mentored in both college and the workplace, which helps to ensure that they can keep up with the demanding routine. “The support I receive from my college and workplace mentor is second to no one,” says Eamon.
“My college mentor is there for any issues with college work and he is very approachable and understanding, while my workplace mentor plays a massive role in my development and progression throughout the programme.”
The programme is currently available through ATI partner colleges in Cork, the Greater Dublin Area, Galway, Limerick, Monaghan, Waterford and Wicklow. Local employers range from large professional services fi rms to small practice, and from large businesses to SMEs. There are also opportunities to become an Accounting Technician Apprentice in the public sector.
Apprentices learn a vast array of in-demand skills, such as bookkeeping, accounts preparation, regulatory frameworks, business ethics, tax management, payroll and budgeting, meaning their Level 6 qualifi cation supported by two years’ work experience and the MIATI designation will open up great opportunities for them when qualified.
ATI, the leading professional body for Accounting Technicians in Ireland, is the programme coordinator, and apprentices complete its syllabus and work-based learning modules. ATI also assists employers in recruiting their apprentices by screening all applications and providing employers with highcalibre applicants who’ve met the programme entry requirements and passed a telephone interview.
“The Accounting Technician Apprenticeship provides another avenue to accountancy to individuals looking to start a successful career in accountancy, which is both practical and supportive,” says Niamh Dowling, HR Assistant Manager at BDO Ireland, a leading professional services firm.
“The apprenticeship blends professional studies and exams with practical work experience, which is very benefi cial to both the student and the firm,” says Niamh.
To find out more about the Accounting Technician Apprenticeship visit http://www.accountingtechnicianapprenticeship.ie
