The country now has 30,000 apprentices, a substantial increase from 7,000 a decade ago, and the full survey findings will be published in the coming weeks.

“Recognising the profile of 21st century apprentices is a key to ensuring that their needs and ambitions are met in the design and delivery of apprenticeship programmes”, Dr. Mary-Liz Trant, Director of the National Apprenticeship Office, stated.

These changes were evident at an apprenticeship fair in Trim, Co Meath, where thousands of school students and adults met potential employers. Ministers James Lawless and Helen McEntee attended the event, reinforcing government support for apprenticeships as hands-on route into careers.

Among the attendees was 35-year-old apprentice motor mechanic Daneil Danilowicz, who left a bar job to pursue his passion for cars. “I quit my job, and I have a never looked back”, he said. Similarly, 20-year-old Ciara Condra switched from a university business degree to an accounting apprenticeship, balancing work with college.

The Chamber of Commerce has emphasised that local employers are desperate to find workers and to meet potential apprentices. “We are looking for as many people as we can get in”, Pat Keating, managing director of Allied Innovations and Solutions, expressed. “We are currently offering 100 jobs, all starting off here in Trim, and we have a whole batch of apprentices that we are looking to take on immediately.” Apprenticeship salaries vary widely, from €250 to €900 per week, depending on the industry.

Students at the fair were surprised by the range of apprenticeships available, from construction to healthcare. “Choose what you love - if you’re happy at work, it doesn’t feel like a job”, Danilowixcz advised.