A LIMERICK woman who felt “lost” after she was told getting an apprenticeship would be “nearly impossible” has just graduated from the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).
21-year-old Katelyn O’Donnell from Patrickswell, County Limerick, was one of 38 students who graduated from the Access to Apprenticeship programme earlier this month.
The national programme was introduced in 2022 focusing on empowering young people aged 16 to 24 from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them gain access to apprenticeship opportunities.
Speaking at her graduation ceremony, Katelyn said that before taking on her apprenticeship, she was at a low point in her life after dropping out of school, which “felt tough and I often felt like it didn’t meet my needs or allow me to fully express my skills”.
Katelyn left school after completing transition year and found herself searching for an apprenticeship.
When she later came across the Access to Apprenticeship Programme online, she applied and says that she has never looked back.
The Patrickswell woman secured a 12-week Level-6 special purpose apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery.
Of the 38 who graduated on the day, 19 are already undertaking apprenticeships – including in motor, electrical, and plumbing trades – while others are in meaningful employment, returning to education or are looking for apprenticeships.
In order to take part in the programme, people must meet criteria including: living in an area of disadvantage; having parents or guardians who did not go to college; have attended a DEIS school; are in receipt of medical/GP visit card; or live in a household where the income is below €46,790 or are in receipt of a meant-tested payment.
Presenting the awards, TUS president Professor Vincent Cunnane said: “This innovative programme equips students with the tools they need to enter the workforce, breaking historical cycles of disadvantage while addressing real skills gaps.”
Dr Maria Kyne, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at TUS, also acknowledged the significant impact these programmes have on communities.
“This is a celebration of your hard work and perseverance. You have shown incredible dedication and we are proud to see you progress toward a future of opportunity and success”, she said.
