Laois duo make history on apprenticeship graduation

Teagasc recently marked a milestone with the graduation of apprentices from its higher education apprenticeship programmes in agriculture, horticulture and sports turf.

Young Laois people were among the first Higher Education Apprentices in Land-Based Sectors to graduate in Tullamore.

Jason Keogh Grincell was awarded a Higher Certificate in Sportsturf Management (NFQ Level 6) while Olivia Rigney was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Professional Sustainable Farm Management (NFQ Level 7).

Dr Stan Lalor, Teagasc Director of Knowledge Transfer, attended the event.

“This marks the culmination of a journey that began in 2017 to reintroduce the apprenticeship model as an additional education and training opportunity for the agriculture, horticulture and sports turf sectors. The linkage with real-world training and skills needs through the support of the industry consortia, combined with the practical and hands-on ‘earn as you learn’ approach, makes it an exciting and attractive option for learners in the future,” he said. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Pictured are the graduates of the four apprenticeship programmes, along with college principals and lecturers, and guests.

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Marian Harkin, Minister of State with special responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills, presented certs at the historic day.

Teagasc say the apprenticeships rely on the commitment of SOLAS-approved employers and workplace mentors, whose contribution was recognised at the graduation. It says the off-the-job training is delivered through Kildalton College, Clonakilty Agricultural College, and the College of Amenity Horticulture, Botanic Gardens, supported by industry engagement and Teagasc research and advisory expertise.