NCI Blog

An apprenticeship is a highly-regarded career pathway that combines academic study with paid on-the-job training, allowing students from all backgrounds an opportunity to enter their chosen industry without previous experience. National College of Ireland is delighted to offer apprenticeships in both recruitment and international financial services. To learn more, visit Apprenticeships at NCI. 

Sarah Austin is a 2021 graduate from the Level 6 Higher Certificate in International Financial Services Apprenticeship, who now works at Amundi Ireland as a Regulatory Reporting Specialist. 

Below, Sarah shares her experiences of studying on the IFS apprenticeship, insights into career progression in the financial services sector and her advice for those considering doing an apprenticeship at NCI. 

Can you tell us about your route to an IFS apprenticeship?

I finished my Leaving Certificate in June 2019 and joined Amundi in September 2019 through the IFS apprenticeship at National College of Ireland. I wanted a practical, career-focused start in finance rather than a straight classroom route. There were only eight of us on the programme and we quickly became a close, supportive group.

Why did you decide to pursue the non-traditional route of an apprenticeship?

I wanted to learn by doing. The IFS apprenticeship combined classroom learning with on-the-job experience, so I could learn and earn. That approach helped me build technical skills from the ground up and gain direct industry experience.

Can you share some insights into studying an apprenticeship at NCI?

I was based at Amundi while my classmates worked across a range of different firms. College classes took place every Wednesday, while the rest of the week was focused on practical tasks and projects at work. We were in person until the COVID-19 pandemic required a switch to online learning, which meant extra discipline and new ways of collaborating. Study groups, workplace mentors and peer support made the programme manageable and enjoyable. 

 ‘Immerse yourself in the work, keep learning every day, and open doors for others - that is how real careers are built.’  

What does your work look like on a day-to-day basis?

I am a Regulatory Reporting Specialist at Amundi Investment Solutions. I am responsible for implementing and maintaining PRIIPs Key Information Documents. I work with product, legal, marketing and risk departments to ensure clear, compliant disclosures across Amundi funds.

I was a key part of the PRIIPs KID project and helped bring it to its successful launch in January 2023. I spent a year in Australia from 2023 to early 2024 and was delighted to rejoin Amundi Investment Solutions on my return.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

Finishing the IFS apprenticeship top of my class and receiving the overall academic achievement award is something I am very proud of. Being part of the PRIIPs launch was another career highlight. I am also proud of my contribution to leadership through the networks and educational initiatives I run.

How have you developed your professional network?

I have been involved with the Amundi Women’s Network since December 2020 and was appointed Chair in January 2026. I have also been Chair of the 100 Women in Finance Early Careers Committee for over a year, after serving six months as a committee member. 100 Women in Finance is a global association of finance professionals focused on empowering women at every career stage.

I run a busy committee programme and have organised networking sessions, workshops, panel discussions and student visits. I lead on the educational front by bringing students from Trinity, Maynooth, DCU, NCI, UCD and other universities into firms so they can see what working in finance looks like.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone considering the IFS apprenticeship at NCI?

Give it your all. Be organised, get involved at work, lean on your peers and mentors, and volunteer for projects that push you. Use college resources and engage with networks and events, because those extra experiences really accelerate learning and open doors. 

If you're interested in studying for an IFS Apprenticeship, please visit our IFS Apprenticeship Hub or reach out to our Apprenticeship Co-Ordinator, Darragh Brien at darragh.brien@ncirl.ie.