“When I finished my Leaving Certificate in May 2021, my friends and I were out to make a few quid, so we all started working in a meat factory in Clondalkin.
The work was physically tough and paid well for my first full time job, but I knew it was not what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I helped at my grandad’s newsagents in the Liberties as well. When I got the call to start my apprenticeship, I handed in my notice and never looked back. I knew I wanted a successful career in accounting and ATI was the perfect way to start my career.”
Despite a strong desire for a career in accounting, Callum Kelly (20), from Aylesbury, Dublin 24, knew full-time third level education would not suit him on completion of his Leaving Certificate. Callum attended Rathmines College of Further Education.
Now working as a trainee accountant at Upton Ryan Chartered Accountants, Dundrum after serving his Accounting Technicians Ireland Apprenticeship at Black Raven Credit Union, Tallaght, Callum is using exemptions in four exams on his path to becoming a fully qualified accountant thanks to his Accounting Technicians Ireland Apprenticeship.
“I have had the best two years of my life and could not be happier,” said Callum.
“I loved higher level accounting in school and asked my guidance counsellor, Ms Dwyer, at Old Bawn Community School about alternatives. She mentioned the Accounting Technicians Ireland Apprenticeship and I knew it would suit me as I would get a very well-regarded qualification without any financial burden whatsoever.
I loved every minute of my apprenticeship and Black Raven Credit Union was very good to me. The college side of things was as equally enjoyable. I learned so much from lecturers, who were all brilliant in their jobs and helped me achieve my results. The team at ATI were so supportive. If I ever had queries or worries, they were quick to reply and give me what I needed. I am delighted I went straight from school into the Accounting Technicians Ireland Apprenticeship, it was the perfect steppingstone for my career.”
For more details, see accountingtechniciansireland.ie or email [email protected].
