Courses
A new generation of apprentices: 580-point student chooses apprenticeship path at ATU
A second-year engineering student at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is challenging traditional expectations around high CAO points and university pathways after choosing an apprenticeship degree despite achieving over 580 points in his Leaving Certificate.
Rourk Shaw, from Kilwarden, County Meath, who is studying the Bachelor of Engineering in Manufacturing Engineering (Apprenticeship) at ATU’s Sligo Campus, recently received an Entrance Scholarship Award in recognition of his outstanding academic achievement.
With points that would have secured him a place on a full-time engineering programme at universities across Ireland, Rourk instead chose the apprenticeship route, combining paid employment with academic study.
“I decided on the apprenticeship route as I wanted to mix real-world experience while earning my degree,” he said. “The engineering discipline appealed to me in secondary school because of my strong interest in engineering, maths, physics and DCG. The apprenticeship allows me to get a degree while gaining valuable skills and knowledge from industry.”
While some were surprised by his decision, Rourk was clear about his reasoning.
“Because of my Leaving Cert results, many people believed a full-time college course was the next step,” he said. “But the apprenticeship wasn’t a fallback option- it was a different path. Once I explained that, most people could see the value in it.”
He believes misconceptions still exist around engineering apprenticeships.
One major misconception is that apprenticeships are aimed only at employees upskilling or students with limited academic performance. They’re a valuable tool for those who want to earn a degree while gaining meaningful experience.
Rourk admits there was pressure during second-level education to follow a traditional university route. However, completing work experience with his current employer during school proved pivotal.
“It was during that time I could instantly see the difference in attitude and application in the industrial environment. Gaining industry experience early was so important to me. I’ve been able to immerse myself around senior engineers and understand projects from start to finish. Being in a fast-paced environment, I’ve learned at an accelerated pace and been exposed to the demands of different engineering settings.”
Now in his second year, Rourk is gaining experience across multiple disciplines, including electrical, manufacturing, mechanical, mechatronic and automation engineering. He has been involved in projects ranging from designing electrical panel schematics to contributing to the delivery of countywide SCADA systems.
Receiving the Entrance Scholarship Award at ATU, he says, was a proud moment.
“It was a great honour. I think it shows other students that they have so many options. My family really appreciated the recognition of my Leaving Certificate, so it was amazing to receive the invitation to attend the awards ceremony.”
Rourk believes perceptions are slowly shifting.
“I think high-achieving students are starting to view apprenticeships differently. As more strong students move through the programme, the success of participants is becoming more evident.”
For Leaving Certificate students currently completing their CAO forms, his advice is clear:
“Place the course you have the most genuine interest in first. Avoid placing a course higher just because of its entry points. Visit open days, talk to current students and graduates. The CAO isn’t the only entry path to third-level education- apprenticeships are a viable and valuable option.”
He also encourages parents to look closely at the structure and outcomes of apprenticeship degrees.
“The course offers a mix of classroom-based learning and industry experience. You gain financial independence and strong career progression opportunities while earning your qualification.”
As apprenticeship pathways continue to grow in popularity, students like Rourk Shaw are demonstrating that they are not an alternative route, but a deliberate and ambitious first choice.
Photo caption: Rourk Shaw with Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President at the ATU Entrance Scholarship Awards
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
E: ivana.hanjs@atu.ie
