A past pupil of Methodist College in Belfast and now living in Kells, he had previously been employed as a Retail Manager with Sainsbury’s. “I had just got married so the ‘earn as you learn’ aspect of the HLA programme really appealed to me as a way to get a professionally qualified without student debt.
“I also felt the content of the programme would be more relevant and beneficial than an Accountancy degree as the work based nature of the programme meant I was able to use what I was learning in College at work.”
He adds that other major benefits of the HLA programme were the ‘one to one’ mentoring support and being able to draw upon the experience of other employees.
Now in full time employment and working towards his Chartered Accountancy exams, Grant says the HLA in Accountancy was an ideal stepping stone for him. “I have already recommended it to others as a more direct route to a professional qualification. In terms of career progression, I’m ahead of my peers who went to university to study Accountancy. The Higher Level Apprenticeship in Accountancy provides an alternative entrance route to a career in accountancy and finance professions. The equivalent of a Foundation Degree, it is supported by Accounting Technicians Ireland, Chartered Accountants Ireland and recognised by leading accountancy bodies.
Northern Regional College also offers Higher Level Apprenticeships in Manufacturing Engineering and Computing.
If you’re still undecided about your next step after A levels, there will be an open enrolment day at all Northern Regional College campuses on Thursday 17 August. This will be an excellent opportunity to get information and guidance on specific courses from College’s experienced staff. No appointment is necessary. Just bring a copy of your results and drop in anytime between 9 am and 9 pm.
