The Department of Trade Studies
The Department of Trade Studies was established in 1971 and is a centre for excellence in the education of apprentices. The majority of our lecturers are former industry professionals who manage and operate a vivacious learning environment in which the apprentices are encouraged to actively participate in the learning process.
The Department offers a range of apprenticeship courses in Automotive Technology, Building Construction, Electrical Engineering and Building Services.Since its foundation the Department has demonstrated an avid dedication to fostering lifelong learning through its continuing educational programmes. Apprentices are now viewed as a growing group of potential Higher Education learners. Lecturers within the Department view this as an opportunity to expand the learning environment and are actively engaged in researching lateral and vertical progression educational career opportunities for apprentices. The focus of the research is on new learning to provide career opportunities and third level qualifications. This will inevitably result in forging closer links between this Department, FÁS, industry and the apprentice. The Department continuously monitors the demands of industry and where possible has provided educational and technical programmes to meet their respective needs.
Apprenticeship has a long tradition and can be traced back to the the Bablonian Code of Hammurabi over four and a half thousand years. This code provided that artisans teach their craft to their youth. In the Middle Ages, apprenticeship was the foundation of educational practices in the faculty of medicine, law and engineering. This Department through its lecturers and support staff will endeavour to continue that great tradition by providing educational support to apprentices and encouraging them to continue their learning as they journey through their career.
Head of Department (Acting) |
Department Secretary |
Post Phase 6 Pilot Programme for Redundant Apprentices
WIT are running a Post Phase 6 Pilot Programme for Redundant Apprentices which will give a HETAC Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 30 ECTS Credits. for more information CLICK HERE
