First of 25 new apprentice training schemes launched

School leavers will be able to work towards a degree and earn a salary at the same time when up to 100 apprentices begin training in the insurance industry for the first time this autumn.

The scheme initiated by the Insurance Institute of Ireland (III) is one of the first of a range of apprenticeships being rolled out under plans to widen the scope of systems for on-the-job training.

While, traditionally, construction-related and craft vocations were the focus of apprenticeships, programmes for entry to 25 new careers were approved last year. Other sectors that will see entrants with a path towards qualification supported by employers, colleges and professional bodies include travel, transport, software, accountancy, and medical devices.