The Chair of Donegal Education and Training Board, councillor Martin Harley, has urged young people to make the most of every opportunity they get to help them decide on their future careers.
His comments came as he spoke at the end of the hugely successful “From Stem to Start-Up: Making Career Connections at Deele” when all of the school’s students got the opportunity to see just how many careers options there are possible to them.
“I would appeal to you all to make the best of every chance to help you, but I’d also say that you need to keep in mind that you don’t have to get caught up in the ponts race. Jut look around and see that there are lots of options available, so keep in mind there is something for everyone.”
Tuesday’s event in Deele College was a phenomenal success with over 30 display stands packed with information and people on hand at each one to give advice to the students.
Career guidance counsellor Gearóídín Brady led an active organising committee of teachers who helped put the event together and she was thrilled by the support received from businesses and organisations.
“The event was part of College Awareness Week and aims to inspire and inform all students about the importance of having a post-secondary education plan. It advocates for students to have the choice to pursue the course best suited to their interests, abilities and dreams, whether that is a PLC qualification, an apprenticeship or a university degree,” she explained.
Many of those exhibiting on Tuesday were past pupils or had links to the school, something not lost on the teaching staff there.
“We are so grateful to all of the exhibitors who gave up their valuable time to help our students, because without their support a day like this simple would not be possible. It is always especially pleasing though to see past-pupils and parents who have had links to the school in the past, coming back to contribute. It shows the strength of school community and is something we are very proud of,” school principal, Joe Boyle said.
Students from 1st year right through to Leaving Certificate all had a chance to talk with and interact with the exhibitors and the array of career choices ranged from molecular bioscience, engineering, psychology, robotics, medicine and apprenticeships to nursing, fashion-design, journalism, defence forces, art and more.
“We really are thrilled with how well the day went. It was simply wonderful for our students to have the opportunity to connect with representatives from traditional and innovative industries, and realise that a college education can take them places that they had never thought of,” Mrs Brady concluded.
