If you find yourself at a crossroads in your career, a general degree may seem like a logical choice. However, this often means years of intense study, financial strain, and uncertain job prospects. To avoid accumulating student debt and gain practical experience, many are seeking alternative paths. Luckily, the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme offers a solution. In partnership with ATU Sligo and LIA, The Insurance Institute has created a unique programme that allows you to study for a level 8 degree while earning money and building a career in the insurance industry. This is the first apprenticeship of its kind, offering a three-year path to a prestigious qualification.
Consider breaking away from the traditional model of third-level study – it may not be the best fit for everyone. Three years of intense study, coupled with financial strain, often results in accumulating student debt and facing uncertain job prospects after graduation. While a Master’s degree can provide temporary relief from tough employment decisions, the reality is that you may still lack practical experience in a very competitive labour market. However, by enrolling in The Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme, you can work and earn while you study. This means you'll be well-equipped to hit the ground running in the insurance industry.
Attending university is a substantial financial burden, with fees, supplies, and accommodation costs adding up quickly. Many students are left with significant debt after graduation, and are forced to take any job they can find, putting their careers on hold and dulling the advantages of their studies. However, with the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme, you can earn a salary while you learn, making it a financially viable option. It's a simple equation - earn money to cover your expenses.
No need to stress over the CAO points race. With the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship, all that's required is a minimum of 2 honours at Higher Level in Leaving Cert, plus 4 additional passes including English/Irish and Maths, and passing an interview process with an insurance employer. It's a direct path to an exciting career without the hassle of overwhelming choices. For applicants over 23 on 1 January of the year of entry, interviews and other selection tools may be used to assess qualifications, replacing Leaving Cert entry requirements. Learn more about the programme and entry requirements here.
The Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme was developed to address the real skills shortage in the insurance industry in Ireland. Its aim is to attract young talent to the sector and secure its future. This growing industry offers plenty of job opportunities, especially with major insurance companies relocating to Ireland post-Brexit. This means there is a whole new world of opportunity waiting for those who take advantage of the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship programme.
The demand for insurance is not going anywhere, as it is an essential part of modern society. With risk always present, there will always be a need to reduce it, and insurance is the answer. This is why international insurance companies have become such a success – they provide something that is always in high demand.
Contrary to popular belief, the insurance industry is not dull and conventional. Rather, it is a dynamic industry that values innovation and creativity. With technology and innovation at the forefront, the industry offers numerous opportunities for young professionals with a positive attitude to revolutionize the way things are done.
Not only does the insurance industry offer a competitive salary, but it also provides exceptional benefits and job security. In fact, insurers are able to offer the best insurance and pension benefits to their employees. This is particularly important for those who may want to start a family in the future. So, if you're looking for a career that offers financial stability and peace of mind, an insurance apprenticeship may be the perfect fit for you.
You can scale any heights you wish in the insurance industry. Why be hampered by a stifling advancement structure when you can benefit from regular professional reviews and the opportunity to shoot for the moon in your career?
Insurance provides peace of mind, allowing individuals and businesses to focus on what truly matters in our complex society. With numerous potential risk factors, insurance offers a safety net that frees people from worry and enables them to take risks and pursue their dreams.
Anyone in insurance will tell you, when you get to make that call to tell someone they’re covered or they’ll be looked after in their time of need is just the greatest feeling in the world. That’s what they’re really in insurance for - for days like those. All the other stuff is great though too!
Want to get started on an insurance apprenticeship? Head over to earnandlearn.ie and register your interest.
This article was first published on 13 July 2016 on Independent.ie | Updated 27 June 2023