Whether you're a school leaver, recent graduate, career changer, or simply looking for some career direction, the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship could be just what you've been looking for. The Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship is more than just a programme; it's a launchpad for a successful and fulfilling career in the insurance industry.
And while you may not have considered a career in insurance before, we're here to tell you why it could be one of the best decisions you ever make.
What is the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship?
First off, let's break down what this apprenticeship is all about.
This three-year programme allows you to earn a full-time salary while studying remotely for a Level 8 BA Honours Degree in Insurance Practice. That means you get the best of both worlds: practical, on-the-job experience and academic knowledge without the hefty student loans.
Plus, with the next cycle kicking off in September 2024, now's the perfect time to consider this opportunity.
Dermot Murray, CEO of The Insurance Institute, says, "We are incredibly proud of the growth of our Apprenticeship programme over the past nine years. Last year, we welcomed a record number of new apprentices (130), and that's a testament to the resilience, success and diversity of the programme.
"It also signifies a broader societal shift in terms of the realisation of the value of apprenticeships and the immense opportunities they present. We look forward to welcoming our 2024 apprentices and would like to thank the insurance employers involved in the programme for their support and commitment."
Who Can Apply?
This apprenticeship is inclusive and open to a wide range of people. Here are some of the people who might find this especially appealing:
- School Leavers: If you're fresh out of school and unsure about your next steps, this could be a perfect way to get a degree while diving straight into a career in insurance.
- New graduates: Not sure what your next step is, a career in insurance can open up lots of opportunities for you.
- Career changers: Feeling stuck or unmotivated in your current job? Insurance could offer the new challenge you're looking for. And remember, it's never too late to learn something new. If you meet the entry requirements, this could be your chance to start a whole new chapter.
Why Insurance?
You might be thinking, "Why insurance?" Well, here are some reasons why:
Job security: Insurance is a stable and secure industry. A recent survey showed that 91 pc of graduates from the programme are still working in the insurance sector, and 68 pc continue to work for the same employer they completed their apprenticeship with. That's evidence of the strong relationships and valuable skills developed during the programme.
Daniel McMorrow, who graduated from the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship and Motor Damage Manager at Allianz PLC, says, "Embarking on the Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship was a no-brainer for me during career uncertainty. Completing the programme transformed my job into a fulfilling career, equipping me with the attitude, work ethic, and confidence to excel.
"It changed my life entirely, providing structure and direction where there was none. Now, I am part of the management team for the department I once joined when I began my apprenticeship at Allianz. The value and experience packed into this apprenticeship surpass anything I could have gained elsewhere."
Career growth: The insurance industry is vast, with plenty of opportunities for advancement. Whether you're interested in commercial, health, motor, home, investments, savings, life, or mortgage insurance, there's a niche for you.
Earning while learning: One of the biggest perks is earning a full-time salary while studying. No more juggling part-time jobs and classes. You can focus on your career and education simultaneously. 82 pc of past graduates said the biggest draw for them was the ability to earn a salary while achieving their degree.
Two exciting streams
The apprenticeship offers two streams to choose from, allowing you to tailor your learning to your interests:
- General Insurance: This includes areas like commercial, health, motor, and home insurance. If you're interested in the nuts and bolts of everyday insurance, this is the stream for you.
- Life Insurance: This covers investments, savings, life, and mortgage insurance. If you're more interested in the financial and long-term planning side of things, this stream ticks all the boxes.
Employers, take note!
If you're an employer in the insurance industry, this apprenticeship isn't just great for potential apprentices; it's also a fantastic opportunity for you. By taking on an apprentice, you're investing in your company's future.
You get to guide a new employee to work with your business needs, ensuring you have the right people with the right skills and knowledge to excel. Plus, you'll be in good company with over 80 employers across Ireland already participating.
Joanne Keane, CEO of the LIA, also commented, "The Insurance Practitioner Apprenticeship presents both apprentices and employers alike with a completely unique and invaluable opportunity – not to mention the benefit for the wider insurance sector.
"The practical nature of the apprenticeship ensures that the apprentice gains on-the-job knowledge while obtaining the underlying academic award. The benefits of being able to immediately put what they are learning into practice while studying cannot be overstated."
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward, and there are plenty of resources available here to help you every step of the way.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the leap and join the ranks of successful graduates who have benefited from this fantastic programme.
Anyone interested in applying for this year's programme can click here to find all the information they need, including locations of the jobs available, how to apply and entry requirements.