Karen - Accounting Technician Apprenticeship
When I saw the advert for the Accounting Technician Apprenticeship programme offered by Monaghan County Council back in July 2023, I Jumped at the chance as it was always something that I had wanted to do after college but never got round to do!
I am currently studying online with Cork College of FET (Morrisons Island Campus) and am due to sit my final exams this August. I have enjoyed the online platform although at the start it was a big adjustment getting used to Moodle and the like! I have also gotten to know my fellow classmates even though we are hundreds miles apart through interaction in class and also with a groupchat – which is very handy when looking for help with those work based assignments!
An apprenticeship I believe is so valuable as you are working whilst learning so I am gaining a variety of skills both in a working environment and college.
It is great to see the various apprenticeship programmes within the council – one of Monaghan County Council’s Corporate Plan goals is a high performing council and this certainly fits this goal as apprenticeship programmes are helping to support and develop employees and ensuring continuous development of its staff.
What I would say to anyone interested in an apprenticeship – if you are interested go for it!
It is definitely a lot of hard work but with the excellent support from my work mentor Johanna McKenna, Financial Management Accountant, Finance & HR Staff when I need guidance on a certain aspect of the course and also the support from the Apprenticeship Administrator Bernie Moen – you have the support there so you can do it!
I want to thank Monaghan County Council for giving me this opportunity and hopefully other members of staff will be able to take up a similar opportunity when it arises!
Lorraine - Accounting Technician Apprenticeship
“The ATI Apprenticeship helped me to apply the learning in the classroom directly to real-world tasks in the workplace.
It gave me a strong foundation in financial processes, bookkeeping and reporting, while also improving my problem-solving and communication skills.
The support from my mentors and colleagues in Monaghan County Council made a huge difference – they were always willing to share their knowledge and guide me through any challenges.
The apprenticeship was a great way for me to upskill while working around family and work life.”
Manus - Accounting Technician Apprenticeship
“I would recommend the apprenticeship program for anyone who is interested in accountancy and enjoys working with figures. The council are very supportive with study leave, exam support and potential to develop professional skills.
It is a big commitment; there were 8 assignments and 8 exams. It can be a challenge studying, working, and managing home life. However, it is possible to fit everything in and get a brilliant qualification.
The technician schedule, i.e. one day a week at college and 4 days working in the office, give you a good balance in getting practical knowledge, along with theory/legislation. There is further advice and support available through the Accountant, Head of Finance, HR, senior staff and your office colleagues”
Sinead - Horticulturist Apprentice
‘As a horticultural apprentice with Monaghan County Council, I’ve had the opportunity to combine hands-on work experience with part-time study. This balance is both challenging and rewarding. It has pushed me to be more organised and driven in my profession. This apprenticeship has given me a strong foundation for a successful career, along with an abundance of practical skills; from planting and landscaping to understanding pest and disease management, all with sustainable practices as the backbone to everything I learn. I have an incredible support system from my mentor Michael Carroll, my co-workers and my lecturers at the National Botanic Gardens.
My favourite part of the programme is the sense of purpose and pride that comes with working to help biodiversity and contributing to the local environment. I am looking forward to completing my current thesis next year as part of my studies, focussing on urban biodiversity.
Through this programme, I have met many wonderful people from all ages and backgrounds, and I would encourage anyone considering a hands-on and fulfilling career path to look into apprenticeships, it is a great way to grow both personally and professionally.’