What work does an International Financial Services apprentice do?

IFS apprentices will develop skills that are key to working in International Financial Services. These skills include areas of regulation and compliance, products and services, client communications and relationships, systems and processes and more, within the context of International Financial Services.  

What skills and qualities are needed to work in International Financial Services?

IFS personnel should typically have strong numeracy and analytical skills with good attention to detail and the ability to understand to impact of the role on the global picture. Communication skills are very important in order to develop effective relationships with clients and key contacts and to work efficiently as part of a team.  Strong IT skills are also required as well as the ability to use and understand the related systems and processes of the role.  Honesty, integrity and the ability to adapt to changing work patterns are also desirable traits.

Where will I be based for my Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a combination of on-the-job training and off-the-job training with the schedule agreed between the employer, the apprentice and your local ETB.  Both the Level 6 and Level 8 apprenticeships are run over two years and will be delivered nationwide.  The apprenticeships are awarded by the National College of Ireland.

What is the Pay/Job market like?

As an apprentice, you earn while you learn.  IFS apprentices are paid in excess of the national minimum wage while being trained.  Qualified International Financial Service Associate Salaries range between €23k - €32k per year depending on the level of IFS Apprenticeship taken.

How do I secure an Apprenticeship contract?

To become an apprentice you must first secure an employer who is willing to take you on as an Apprentice.  There are several ways that you can go about finding a suitable placement.  Many students can make use of their work experience during TY, leave a good impression and then approach the employer and ask to be taken on.  Spend time on your CV and work on your interview skills and approach employers in your area.

Entry requirements for the Level 6 apprenticeship is a minimum of grade H6/O6 in five Leaving Certificate subjects including English and Maths while QQI Level5/6 awards are also considered.

Entry requirements for the Level 8 apprenticeship is a 2.2 Level 8 honours degree in any discipline while non-standard applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Explore our Live apprenticeship area to find out what other employers are actively looking for apprentices.

Where can I get more information?

More information can be found at the official IFS Apprenticeship website or by clicking here for a brochure from Apprenticeship.ie. 

Further information can also be obtained from the course provider, the National College of Ireland.

On Careers Portal you can visit our dedicated International Financial Services Associate and International Financial Services Specialist Apprentice pages for a more detailed account.  You can also explore our Apprenticeships section, Career Sector area, read career stories and search our CourseFinder using the Apprenticeship filter.   

Further details about apprenticeships can also be found on the official apprenticeship website www.apprenticeship.ie.

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