Graduating apprentices from Tipperary who recently completed their apprenticeship were today (Thursday 6th October 2016) presented with their Advanced Certificate Craft.
The event was co-hosted by SOLAS and Tipperary Education and Training Board.
Speaking at the presentation, Paul O’Toole, CEO, SOLAS, spoke of the Apprenticeship programme and drew particular attention to the calibre of the Irish Apprenticeship system which is recognised nationally and internationally. “You have completed a comprehensive Apprenticeship that is recognised at home and abroad as one of the best in the world. An example of the standards achieved by apprentices during their apprenticeship is the success obtained by the Irish Team at successive World Skills Competitions. This is a remarkable achievement and it proves beyond doubt that our Apprenticeship system and our Apprentices are among the best in the world”.
At the most recent World Skills Competition held in August 2015 in São Paulo, Brazil, two Gold Medals, eight Medallions of Excellence and an 11th place world ranking were achieved by the team of 14 young apprentices, trainees and students who represented Ireland. .
The Advanced Certificate Craft is at Level 6 of the National Framework of Qualifications and is an internationally recognised qualification.
Representing the Education and Training Boards, Fionuala McGeever, CE of Tipperary Education and Training Board said “Tipperary ETB has seen a substantial increase in engagement with employers and students. It is encouraging to see that former apprentices with TETB are now the employers of the future and are recruiting apprentices across a variety of areas”.
As Ireland’s economy continues to recover and businesses expand, there is a growing demand for people with vocational skills. Businesses need people with strong practical skills and apprenticeship is key to delivering this. The Irish Apprenticeship system has proven highly successful in developing highly skilled workers like those receiving the Advanced Certificate Craft today.
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, we are seeing an increase in the number of new apprentices being registered across the 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.
Concluding the ceremony, Paul O’Toole congratulated the apprentices who received their Advanced Certificates Craft on their achievement of being recognised as highly skilled craftspeople and wished them every success in their careers.