'I got 510 points in the Leaving Cert: Apprenticeship was my first choice'

Having received 510 points in her Leaving Cert in 2020, Hazel Johnston turned a few heads when she had an apprenticeship as her first choice. Picture: Larry Cummins

Having received 510 points in her Leaving Cert in 2020, Hazel Johnston turned a few heads when she had an apprenticeship as her first choice, which for her was a “no-brainer”.

Now the Apprentice of the Year for 2023 and the first woman to receive the award, Ms Johnston says there needs to be a change in how apprenticeships are viewed by schools, teachers, guidance counsellors, and parents.