Working in a fast-paced banking environment means dealing with different people every day. These are some of the key skills Joel demonstrates in his role:
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Meet our people
Our people are at the heart of everything we do - they're helping to build a bank people can believe in.
Team members
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“My experience as a Higher-Level Apprentice at AIB has given me a strong and valuable foundation for my future career.”
Joel Fox, Apprentice
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“The AIB Higher Level Apprenticeship has provided me with valuable experience, leaving me with confidence and a clearer direction for my future.”
Stuart Gibson , AIBUK Account Management
Case Study
Joel's Career Journey
Joel's journey from school leaver to Higher-Level Apprentice at AIB has been one of growth, discovery and building a strong foundation for his future career.
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GCSEs
Joel completed 8 GCSEs including Maths, Further Maths, English, Double Award Science, History, Geography, H.E. and Learning for Life and Work.
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A-Levels
Joel studied Maths, Business Studies and History at A-Level. During Sixth Form, he was a prefect and enjoyed organising school events, sport days and charity days, balancing both the academic and social aspects of school life.
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Next steps after school
In the summer of 2022, Joel had finished school and was working part-time in a local shop. He then received a call from AIB regarding an interview and was accepted, starting both work and university in late October 2022.
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Wider school life
Outside of school, Joel enjoyed playing golf at least twice a week and watching football and F1. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
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Finding work
In sixth form, Joel was advised to look at Workplus. At the time, he had no idea what he wanted to do, but after exploring Workplus, he uploaded a CV listing his interests, including banking, and was later contacted by AIB regarding an interview.
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Working at AIB
Joel has worked across Business Banking, Lending and Mortgages at AIB, gaining crucial banking experience. He has grown in confidence, taken on more responsibilities and even represented AIB in Dublin and London at forums and charity events.
Advice from Joel
How do you know where to begin?
Advice for a 16 year old about education
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Remain open-minded to all options and think about what your interests are
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Future education is not all about grades, it's also about developing learning skills and improving confidence
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Do what interests you
Advice for next steps after school
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Choose a path that suits you and your goals, rather than just following what everyone else is doing
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Take a deeper look into apprenticeships
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The apprenticeship approach can lead to greater opportunities due to having crucial workplace experience that all employers desire
Suitability
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Communication
Communicating effectively with both colleagues and customers is essential in a banking environment.
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Teamwork
Working collaboratively with those around you helps deliver the best outcomes for customers.
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Time management
Balancing work and university means managing responsibilities and meeting deadlines is key.