As students have received their Leaving Cert results and await CAO offers, remember there are a huge number and variety of apprenticeships available.

That's the message from the Department of Further and Higher Education! You can find out more at the official site, www.apprenticeship.ie, and read on to find out more about two options.

Press play up top to see Louis' story on his journey with trees and scroll down to find out how Yvonne started a career in sales.

Arboriculture Apprenticeship – Level 6

A career in arboriculture is best suited for those interested in the care and study of trees. An interest is necessary in working outdoors in a physically challenging environment with a good head for heights whilst keeping fit and learning new challenges in a continually changing environment.

An arborist, also known as an Arboriculturist, studies the bio-mechanics of trees; growth, cultivation, reactions to pruning, diseases, de-compartmentalisation of decay, and all the practical aspects of tree management. The arborist is also interested in the management and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. An arborist's job is more generalised than a tree service technician, as an arborist cares for the health of the entire tree. Along with maintaining and caring for trees by tree pruning, removal, planting and emergency tree care, an arborist provides many other services such as insect control, fertilization, cabling, aeration, and lightning protection.

They can also identify any diseases or parasites, ensure trees have sufficient support, and remove any damaging plants. An arborist can give consultations that will help determine when these services are necessary.

The programme is 2 years in duration and was developed by a team of industry experts, it includes both off-the-job (in a Training Location) and on-the-job (with an Approved Employer) phases. On successful completion of the programme the apprentice will be awarded an Advanced Certificate in Arboriculture Level 6.

Areas Covered Year 1

  • Use of equipment such as chainsaw, woodchipper and pole pruners
  • Identification of Trees
  • Felling Trees
  • Care and management of trees
  • Health and safety Legislation
  • Team Leadership
  • Conservation Legislation

Areas Covered Year 2

  • Identification of Trees
  • Identification of Pests, Diseases, Disorders
  • Tree Access with Rope and Harness
  • Aerial tree Rescue
  • Aerial Chainsaw Operations
  • Care and management of trees
  • Aerial Pruning
  • Tree Surveys and Management
  • Mewp Operation
  • Severing Uprooted Trees

Entry Requirements

  • Must be employed by an 'approved employer’ and have met programme pre-requisites* through employer.
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Level 4 Award or equivalent and/or have a minimum of 12 months’ relevant experience in a related trade and/or Arborist employment.
  • Non EU applicants will be subject to work permit regulations.
  • Applicants must provide evidence demonstrating English language competence at B1 in reading and writing.
  • Have an interest in working outdoors in a physically challenging environment.
  • Have a good head for heights!

Sales Apprentice – Level 6

This apprenticeship is most suited to those who have a creative flair with good networking skills and feel that they would be a natural salesperson.

The role of a sales specialist involves working in a sales environment in either business to business (B2B) or business to consumer (B2C) sales. As a sales specialist, the apprentice will be involved in the full sales cycle from planning sales activities to closing the sale.

They will lead the sales interaction with new customers and build and enhance relationships with existing customers. They will have in depth knowledge of the product being sold and become an expert at analysing customer needs and creating solutions to these needs

On completion of this two-year apprenticeship, candidates will become fully qualified sales specialists, with a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Sales.

They may then choose to work as a sales specialist in a broad range of industries from pharmaceuticals, communications, entertainment, financial services, motor, agriculture and more. They may also use the qualification to progress within the sector and/or to higher education programmes.

Areas Covered

Year 1

  • Sales Fundamentals
  • The Psychology of Sales
  • Customer Service in the Experience Economy
  • Sales Forecasting and Budgeting
  • Legal and Ethical Considerations for Sales
  • Marketing in the 21st Century
  • Digital Skills for Sales

Year 2

  • Sales Coaching
  • Consultative Selling, Negotiation and Decision Making in Sales
  • Developing Leadership Skills
  • International Selling for the Sales Practitioner

Entry Requirements

  • Must be employed by a SOLAS ‘Approved Employer’ and registered as an apprentice
  • Aged 18 or over
  • Must have Grade O6/H7 or above in 5 Leaving Certificate subjects (including Maths F2/06/H7 along with English or Irish 06/H7) or a full QQI Level 5 or higher qualification
  • International applicants must present the equivalent of a full Level 5 qualification or higher
  • Apprentices for whom English is not a first language must demonstrate proficiency in English and hold a minimum of a B1 CEFR or recognised equivalent
  • Mature applicants aged 21 years and over without a Level 5 qualification will also be considered following an interview and submission of supporting documentation.

*Further information on all apprenticeships at www.apprenticeship.ie

Click here to see more options for further eduaction and training on RTÉ Learn.