Question: I have recently completed my Leaving Certificate and I am currently deciding between two possible career routes, so I would greatly appreciate your advice.

I have the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship this September, which would allow me to enter the workforce immediately, while working towards a qualification over two years. This route would also allow me to earn earlier, gain practical experience, and potentially continue with further education afterwards, especially as experience in a particular sector is important today. My alternative option is to complete a three-year business degree, provided I get the points, before specialising further or entering the workforce, which delays my opportunities.

I am unsure whether it is better to begin working and gaining experience sooner through an apprenticeship, or to first complete a broader third-level qualification before entering the workplace? – A Leinster school leaver

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I have the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship this September, which would allow me to enter the workforce immediately, while working towards a qualification over two years

Dear reader,

Congratulations on completing your Leaving Cert exams and I hope you are ready to enjoy your summer after such an intense two years of study.

What a sensible approach you are taking to deciding your next steps in your education and career journey. I’m sure there are many parents reading your query who admire such a mature outlook on your options. The apprenticeship route has changed hugely from what it once was. You rightly point out that you will be earning earlier, and gaining practical experience in your chosen sector. But, you will also gain qualifications from levels 5 to 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications, so you won’t have to postpone further education if you take this route.

However, if you believe you would benefit from a purely academic learning option, then your preferred choice of a business degree would make more sense. This may also be the right choice if your friends and peers are heading to third-level and you would like a similar experience. I would argue that this option doesn’t delay your opportunities. It simply presents a different range of options.

The best way to determine this is to consider how you have found the past two years of the Leaving Cert cycle. If you enjoyed learning and studying, then perhaps a college course is the right fit for you at this point in your life. However, if you’re happier to see the back of the books for now, then the apprenticeship option makes more sense.

By opting for an apprenticeship, you are not walking away from all study. Regardless of what profession you have chosen you will still be taking a blended approach to learning where you gain hands-on experience, and complete sections of the course in an educational setting.

The big attraction of an apprenticeship for school leavers is the opportunity to earn money, so in a way you have the best of both worlds.

Other factors that may help you decide could include the convenience of an apprenticeship if it allows you to remain living at home.

Your letter doesn’t state where you would be attending college if that is your choice, but that may involve moving away from home where there is a cost. The accommodation availability factor should also be taken into consideration.

I’ve no doubt you have a bright future ahead of you.

Do you have a problem you would like to share? If so, write in confidence to: Dear Miriam, Agony Aunt, Irish Country Living, Irish Farmers Journal, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12, or email miriam@farmersjournal.ie