A young woman who felt “lost” after being told getting an apprenticeship would be “nearly impossible” is on the way to achieving her goals, thanks to her courage, perseverance and a programme run at Technological University of the Shannon
Katelyn O’Donnell, from Patrickswell, County Limerick, 21, was one of 38 students who graduated from the Access to Apprenticeship programme at the university’s Moylish campus on Friday, April 4th.
The national programme, which piloted at Moylish in 2022, focuses on empowering young people aged 16 to 24 from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them gain access to apprenticeship opportunities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Katelyn told how she was at a low point after dropping out of school.
She said: “School felt tough and I often felt like it didn’t meet my needs or allow me to fully express my skills.
“After completing Transition Year, I made the difficult decision to leave school and look for an apprenticeship. However, I quickly found myself lost, with no clear direction.
“I didn’t know anyone in the industry and all I had was my Junior Cert. On top of that I was told that, as a girl, pursuing an apprenticeship would be nearly impossible.
“Then I came across the Access to Apprenticeship Programme on social media. I thought, ‘What do I have to lose?’ and decided to apply, hoping this could be my pathway into an apprenticeship.
“Completing the programme last June was a turning point for me. Since then, I’ve never looked back.
“I’m proud to say that I’ve secured an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery.
“The programme gave me hands-on experience across a range of trades, boosted my confidence and it connected me with companies who saw my potential, not my Junior Cert or my gender.
“It showed me that I have the same ability and opportunities as anyone else, and it ultimately helped me secure the apprenticeship I once thought was out of reach.
“To anyone who feels uncertain or unsure about their path, I want them to know that sometimes the most difficult decisions lead to the greatest opportunities. I’m proof that perseverance, a little courage and the right support can open doors you never thought possible.
Operating on TUS’s Moylish and Athlone campuses, the Access to Apprenticeship (ATA) programme – funded by the Higher Education Authority – offers a 12-week, Level-6 special-purpose award that blends practical skills training, personal and professional development, and work placement.
Of the 38 who graduated on the day, 19 are already doing apprenticeships – including in motor, electrical and plumbing trades – while others are in meaningful employment, returning to education or are looking for apprenticeships.
To take part you must meet three of five qualifying criteria:
- live in an area of disadvantage
- have parents/ guardian that did not go to college
- attended a DEIS school
- are in receipt of Medical/GP visit card
- in a household where the income is below €46,790 or in receipt of a means-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.
“I would like to thank our industry partners who play a key role in providing crucial support through site visits, industry-led workshops, work placements, and apprenticeship opportunities. This collaborative approach has ensured the programme’s success and its continued growth.
“Today’s ceremony not only marked a key milestone for graduates but also underscored TUS’s ongoing mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for real-world challenges”
The programme has been particularly impactful in supporting students from regeneration areas, where the progression rates have historically been low.
In her address, Dr Maria Kyne, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, TUS, acknowledged the significant impact these programmes have on communities.
She said: “Today 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,
“This programme is not only shaping the future of our graduates but also the communities they come from. They provide a vital opportunity for personal and professional growth, breaking down barriers and creating new pathways for those who need them most.”
“This initiative is not just about academic achievement; it’s about transforming lives,” said Susan Meagher, ATA Programme Manager. “With funding from the HEA and thanks to the dedication of employers, schools, community organisations in regeneration areas, and, of course, our students, the Access to Apprenticeship programme is changing the educational landscape for underrepresented communities.”