I recently sat down with Jessica Martin from MSLETB for a chat about the National Digital Marketing Apprenticeship. Honestly, it sounds like a win-win. It’s completely free for employees (yes, free!), and employers can also avail of a government grant, which makes it even more appealing.
Even better news? Applications are now open for the April 2026 intake, delivered by Mayo College of Further Education and Training at the Swinford Apprenticeship Hub. There’s also an opportunity to study in Dublin, and Kerry will join in later this year.
This two-year Level 6 apprenticeship is fully funded and allows apprentices to earn while they learn, gaining real, hands-on experience in one of Ireland’s fastest-growing industries. Alongside digital marketing, the Swinford Hub also runs Sales and Accounting Technician Apprenticeships, helping to position Mayo as a real hub for skills and future-focused careers.
What I love about this programme is how practical it is. It’s designed by industry, for industry, with 65% of learning happening on the job and 35% through classroom and online sessions. Apprentices join weekly online classes, with in-person training every 6–8 weeks, all while working on live campaigns and real business projects. It’s proper, real-world learning.
And the benefits are impressive: Fully Funded – Plus €4,000 Government Grant Per Apprentice
- No tuition fees for apprentices or employers
- A €4,000 government grant per apprentice
- QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing
- Full-time paid employment throughout
- Open to new hires, existing staff, and career changers
- Suitable for businesses of all sizes and sectors
The course content is bang on trend too, it covers everything from digital marketing strategy and social media to content creation, generative AI for marketing, digital tools, e-business trends, media law and ethics, and digital leadership. There are even electives like podcasting, media planning and buying, and public sector digital communications.
Beyond the qualifications, this programme is doing something really important for Mayo by supporting local businesses, keeping talent in the county, and creating clear career paths in digital, media and technology and strengthening the county’s economy and
workforce.
If this sounds like something you (or your business) might be interested in, you can register your interest by emailing Jessica Martin at digitalmarketingapprenticeship@mayocollege.ie
or visiting www.mayocollege.ie
And don’t forget to check out my podcast episode with Jessica, it will give you more of an idea about the apprenticeship.
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