Enda Cosgrave

Master of Arts in Learning and Teaching

Donegal – Letterkenny

Can you tell us your name, job title and the course you studied at ATU?

Enda Cosgrave, Lecturer in Motor Mechanics Apprenticeships (ATU Galway). I completed the Masters of Arts in Learning and Teaching (MALT).

Can you share your career path to date?

I started out as a motor mechanic and later completed a degree in automotive diagnostics with the aim of moving into teaching. I’ve now been teaching apprentices in ATU for about ten years, working with students as they come through the different phases of their training.

What does your current role involve?

I teach Phase 4 and Phase 6 apprentices, both in the workshop and in the classroom. So it’s a mix of hands-on practical work like diagnostics and repairs, and the theory that goes with it. A big part of the job is helping apprentices connect what they’re doing in the garage with the technical knowledge behind it.

What motivated you to start studying?

Mainly to become a better teacher and improve the learning experience for the apprentices. I wanted to bring more structure and better engagement into my classes. Career progression was also a factor.

Why did you choose this course from ATU?

It matched exactly what I was looking for. The modules were very relevant to teaching, and I could see straight away how it would apply to my own classes.

How did you find the process of studying online? What elements did you find helpful? Were there elements you found challenging?

The blended learning worked really well for me. The recorded lectures were especially helpful when work got busy. Like anything, there were times when it was a bit of a juggle, but overall it was very manageable.

How did you balance work and study?

It could be challenging at times, especially around deadlines, but setting aside time each week made a big difference. Once you stay consistent, it’s very doable alongside work.

In terms of your employer, were they supportive of your decision to study? Were there elements of the course that were particularly relevant to your current employer?

ATU were very supportive, particularly in terms of CPD. The course content was directly relevant to my teaching role, especially around improving how we deliver to apprentices.

What advice would you have for anyone considering studying online?

Set aside regular time every week and stick to it. The flexibility is great, but you need to stay disciplined.

In what way has studying online with ATU benefitted your career?

It gave me the opportunity to complete a Master’s without having to travel, which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. That flexibility made a huge difference.

Did this course provide any unexpected benefits to your career?

Yes—especially in how I engage students. Things like Universal Design for Learning really helped me adapt my teaching so it works better for all apprentices, whether in the classroom or the workshop.

Did you find that the elements you were studying had practical relevance in your day-to-day role?

Definitely. I was able to apply what I learned straight away—whether that was improving how I run a practical session in the garage or structuring a theory class so it’s clearer and more engaging.

What were the key skills you took away from your time studying at ATU?

Better planning at all levels, and improving student engagement. I’m much more focused now on making sure every apprentice is involved and supported, and that the learning is clear and practical for them.