To mark Apprenticeship Week 2026, we caught up with Niall Brolly and Patrick McGeary. Since joining Baker Tilly Mooney Moore directly from school, Niall and Patrick have continued to make impressive progress through the Accountancy with Management Degree Apprenticeship Programme. Now in their second year at Ulster University, both are well settled into the four-year programme, balancing one day a week at university with four days gaining hands-on experience within the firm.
Niall and Patrick have recently completed their Financial Accounting exam, marking another key milestone in their academic journey. Alongside their studies, they are building a strong foundation in practice through their work across Audit & Assurance and Business Services. This dual exposure has provided them with a broad and varied experience, from preparing accounts and supporting clients in the office to spending time on client sites as part of audit teams.
Working across different departments has allowed both apprentices to engage with clients from a wide range of sectors, helping them to develop not only technical accounting skills but also confidence, professionalism and commercial awareness well ahead of graduation.
Joanne Small, Audit & Assurance Partner, commented on the value of the apprenticeship route for both the firm and the apprentices themselves: “The degree apprenticeship route allows us to develop talented individuals from a very early stage, combining academic learning with meaningful, hands-on experience. Niall and Patrick have shown real commitment and professionalism, and they are already making valuable contributions to their teams while continuing to build strong technical and interpersonal skills.”
Head of Audit Eimear Brown also highlighted the benefits of early exposure to professional practice: “What stands out is the breadth of experience Niall and Patrick are gaining alongside their studies. Working across Audit & Assurance and Business Services, and with clients from a range of sectors, gives them a strong understanding of the profession and prepares them exceptionally well for the next stages of their careers.”
Beyond their academic and professional development, Niall and Patrick have fully immersed themselves in life at Baker Tilly Mooney Moore. They have embraced the social side of the firm, taking part in events such as the annual quiz and Christmas party, helping them to build strong relationships across teams and departments.
Sport continues to play an important role in both of their lives outside of work. Patrick is heavily involved in golf and Gaelic football, while Niall balances both Gaelic football and hurling alongside his studies and professional commitments.
On completion of the programme, Niall and Patrick will graduate with a BSc in Accountancy and Management, alongside four years of real-world experience. The apprenticeship pathway continues to offer a compelling alternative to the traditional university route – combining practical experience, earning while learning, no student debt, and a recognised degree – while producing confident, capable future professionals for the firm.