The numbers add up for South West College Accounting Students as Six Rank in Ireland’s Top 10

In her address, Celine McCartan, Principal and Chief Executive of SWC, commended the students on their outstanding achievements, and said:

“For six students to achieve top ten rankings is an incredible accomplishment. We at SWC are immensely proud of their dedication and skill, which reflect the high standards of education we offer. Their success highlights the value of the flexible options available at the College and the crucial role Lecturers and employers play in enhancing students' knowledge and experience.”

Philip McEvoy from ATI praised the students, employers, and SWC, noting the remarkable achievement, and expressed:

“For SWC to have 3 students in the Top 10 in first year and a further 3 students in the Top 10 of 2nd year is an extraordinary achievement, not only for the students themselves, but also for the College, as this is unmatched by any other college throughout the whole of Ireland.

“I am also proud to say that not only have SWC achieved excellent exam results this year which have seen us all come here to celebrate tonight but they are now also the largest FE College for HLA Accounting Technicians first year students this year across their Omagh, Dungannon and Enniskillen campuses.

“The strong Part-Time numbers and success reflect the college's high level of teaching and the support from local employers, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to pursue careers in Accountancy and Finance.

Noreen McGirr, Higher Level Apprenticeship and Business Process Manager, at the College also congratulated the students, emphasizing the benefits of the HLA pathway at SWC. She said:

“The HLA in Accounting provision at the College is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for a career as an Accounting Technician. The combination of academic learning and practical work experience, with students attending college one day per week and working in an accountancy practice the other four days, ensures that their knowledge is immediately applied in real-world settings. With five HLAs ranking in the top ten across Years 1 and 2, this pathway is highly effective.”

For those considering a career in accountancy, the Accounting Technician (ATI) course at the College can be completed in two years, either as a HLA or part-time student. This globally recognized qualification, awarded by Accounting Technicians Ireland, offers a fast track to a rewarding accounting career, opening doors to diverse roles in industry, commerce, private practice, and the public sector. The College provides flexible study options and practical experience for school leavers, graduates, mature students, and professionals seeking formal accounting training.