Careers & Courses 2019 by southernstarIRL

AUGUST 2019

Courses commencing in September 2019 Adult Education Programmes QQI levels 1 to 3 Back To Education Initiative (BTEI) Courses at level 4 No matter what level you are at - we have a course. WIDE RANGE OF COURSES ON OFFER

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careers & courses for 2019

Whether you’re a student just out of school, someone who is looking to change career, or maybe you’re just looking to broaden your horizons through learning – one way or another, there’s never a ‘wrong’ time to start on the path towards further self-development and education.

For all enquiries please call 028 21200 or advertising@southernstar.ie or www.southernstar.ie

We hope this magazine will give you some ideas and insights into the wide range of education options available to you in West Cork, Cork City and beyond. We’ve included career advice from various industry experts as well as the experiences of individuals who have benefited from returning to education.

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We have great advice on interview techniques, how to compile a CV and some food for thought on apprenticeships and internships. We also look at women in the workplace in West Cork and there’s a profile of Glandore woman Stephanie Keohane who is plotting a remarkable career in the merchant navy.

The Southern Star Niall O’Driscoll Michael Stephens, Irene Paradisi, Muireann Brady, Anne Kelleher, Donnchadh Crowley, Brian McCarthy, Jennifer Barron, Sue Ryan

We also look at careers in the food and tourism industries. All this and lots more, so read on, keep learning, and all the very best for the future!

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– The Southern Star team

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Careers & Courses 2019

LEARNING WHILE EARNING The idea of doing an apprenticeship is becoming more relevant to those looking for careers in a growing range of sectors – from the traditional trades like plumbing and carpentry to accounting and auctioneering, writes Brian Moore WHILE the traditional apprenticeships – things like plumbing, carpentry, electrics and so on – are still available, there are newer career options for the would-be apprentice out there, which are offered by more and more companies not normally seen as apprenticeship providers. One such West Cork company, offering Accounting Technician apprenticeships, is ODM Accountants in Bandon. ‘This is our second year with places available for our accounting technician positions,’ John O’Sullivan of ODM explained. ‘Last year, we took on two school leavers and a staff member who was working in administration but who decided to further his career. They spend four days working in-office and one day in college each week. This is an excellent way to experience the day-to-day workings of a business and then to put the theory you learn in college to practical use.’ The accounting technician apprenticeship runs for two years and is aimed at those who want to gain valuable hands-on experience, while achieving academic standards. ‘If, after two years the apprentice wants to continue on to full accountancy with Chartered Accountants Ireland or a similar professional body then they will have achieved exemptions for the exams just as those who had studied, without gaining the work experience, for three or four years in college.’ ‘If this scheme had been around when I started my career in accountancy, I would have gone down this route,’ John said. ‘We will be advertising any new apprenticeship position locally and with The Southern Star.’ More details on the accounting technician apprenticeships are available online at accountingtechnicianapprenticeship.ie However, with the undeniable upturn in the construction industry and a growing need for skilled craftspeople to fill the positions left vacant by those who went abroad in search of work, employers are reporting an increase in demand for apprenticeships across all major trades. ‘We have seen an increase in the demand for apprentices, especially, for trainee electricians,’ Enda McWeeney, Cork area training manager at the Cork Training Centre said. ‘But we are also seeing a steady increase in the number of available apprenticeships in all sectors and we expect to see this growth continue into the future.’ ‘An apprenticeship is a programme of education and training which combines

‘If this scheme had been around when I started my career in accountancy, I would have gone down this route’ learning in the work place with learning in a training centre or educational college,’ Enda said. ‘And as part of the national apprenticeship system, there are formal requirements for approval of an employer’s suitability to train apprentices and for registration of apprentices. SOLAS is responsible for delivering on these requirements and draws on a network of ‘Authorised Officers’ (AOs) located in the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) around the country to do this.’ While the availability of any apprenticeship is solely driven by employers, Enda strongly recommends that anyone interested in taking up a trade should approach employers and let them know they are interested in an apprenticeship. ‘Apprenticeships in the traditional trades

John O’Sullivan, ODM Accountants.

are more than often a case of “word of mouth” so asking around is always a good idea. But we are hearing of employers who are having difficulties in attracting potential apprentices especially in the construction and electronic sectors.’ This, coupled with the range and scope of third level courses available to school leavers is having a negative effect when it comes to filling many traditional apprenticeship positions. However, to take up an apprenticeship opportunity, you first need to find an approved employer. Once you have an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice you can then register with the Cork Training Centre who manage apprenticeships on behalf of Solas in Cork City and county. Also apprentices must be at least 16 years of age and have a minimum of grade D in any five subjects

in the Junior Certificate or equivalent. However, employers may require additional minimum qualifications. ‘There has never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship especially in one of the traditional trades,’ Enda said. ‘Don’t just choose any occupation, choose an occupation that you are interested in and best suits you. Remember, this is going to be your career, involving work, study, and commitment.’ Keep an eye on newspapers, especially The Southern Star, to see what is available in your area. You can also contact your local Apprenticeship Services Office in the Cork ETB Training Centre on 021/4856200 or log on to: www.corktrainingcentre.ie to register your interest in an apprenticeship.

There is an increase in demand for apprentices in the trades such as plumbing, electrics and carpentry.

Careers & Courses 2019

Apprenticeships through Cork College of Commerce APPRENTICESHIPS have been transformed since 2016, offering new learning and career opportunities in a range of professional areas, offering a real alternative to the college route for so many people with the added bonus of earning a salary while you learn. Cork College of Commerce on behalf of Cork ETB offers two professional apprenticeships which provide flexible, paid and industry-led courses in both auctioneering and accounting technicians. These new style apprenticeships are 5-daysa-week programmes: • 1 day a week in college and 4 days a week in the workplace • Apprentices will have a contract with an employer with a minimum salary of €20,000 per annum while the learn both in college and in the workplace. • Both employers and students benefit from gaining a committed employee in training while students secure a professional qualification, income and career. An apprenticeship with Cork College of Commerce is two years in duration leading to Level 6 QQI award.

Accounting Technicians

There is high demand from industry for qualified Accounting Technicians. Very popular with Cork employers, apprentices come from a range of work settings, accounting practices, commercial & industry settings and the public sector. Completion leads to a range of accounting career opportunities and further educational qualifications. It is the most direct route to completing a full accounting qualification.

Auctioneering & Property Services

Developed with partners in Ballsbridge College, industry and the regulator, this national apprenticeship offers both apprentices and employers a fantastic opportunity to avail of on-the-job experience and college teaching with the benefit of receiving a full licence from the Property Services Regulator upon successful completion. This course appeals both to existing employees who wish to gain a licence and new recruits to the property sector. • For further information on these apprenticeships please contact Brian Stokes on bstokes@ccoc.ie

APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES AT CARBERY GROUP

Carbery Group is a global leader in food ingredients, flavours and cheese. We are Irish owned and, while deeply rooted in our local community, employ over 660 people in 8 facilities around the world (including Ireland, UK, Italy, USA, Brazil, Thailand). We are active in 50 markets (and growing) and reported revenues of €423m in 2018.

WE ARE SEEKING APPRENTICES (Electrical & Instrumentation and Mechanical) to join our busy Maintenance team. Candidates must have a Leaving Certificate and have passed the SOLAS Colour blindness test. If you are enthusiastic, positive and hard working, apply now to www.carbery.com/careers CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS IS: 6th September 2019

WORK PLACEMENT

Careers & Courses 2019

Part-time UCC Diploma in Speciality/ Artisan Food - another successful year! It was a very busy year for these students (pictured) who have just completed UCC’s part-time Diploma in Speciality Food Production. Highlights have included lectures from experts in food science, business, marketing, and food sustainability/environment; visits to artisan/ speciality food businesses and markets; workshops on regulations, accounting and food safety; practical’s and demonstrations in food processing. A very valuable aspect of the programme has been the opportunity to network with each other, the trainers and sector experts. Applications are now being taken for the next cycle of this Diploma, and funding is available: The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to University College Cork will again provide funding at 64% of the fee for the Diploma in Speciality Food Production for eligible applicants. The Diploma will start on 8th October 2019 and will run on a part-time basis until May 2020. The programme is typically delivered every three to four weeks, over two days (Tuesday and Wednesday). Application forms and more information can be obtained from Dr Angela Sheehan, a.sheehan@ucc.ie, or by visiting www.ucc.ie/en/fitu. The closing date for application is 18th September 2019.

PART-TIME DIPLOMA IN SPECIALITY FOOD PRODUCTION

We are now taking applications for UCC’s part-time Diploma in Speciality Food Production. Be part of the success! Many graduates of the diploma have gone on to develop successful small food businesses. ‘The diploma was the first step in my journey to realising my dream of diversifying into farmhouse cheese production’ Norma Dinneen, BoRua Cheese. The diploma starts on 8th October 2019 and will run on a part-time basis until May 2020. The programme is typically delivered every three weeks (Tuesday and Wednesday), and consists of lectures in conjunction with practical’s, case studies, site visits and workshops.

The fee for the diploma is €2800 and up to 64% of the fee is available for eligible applicants, through a Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine bursary scheme. An application form and more information can be obtained from Dr Angela Sheehan, Programme Manager, a.sheehan@ucc.ie or by visiting www.ucc.ie/en/fitu. The closing date is 18th September.

Careers & Courses 2019

ON THE HIGH SEAS Glandore’s Stephanie Keohane has plotted an exciting and unusual career for herself writes Emma Connolly IMAGINE having fire hoses at the ready and barbed wire surrounding your place of work in case you were attacked by pirates? It’s something that Glandore’s Stephanie Keohane takes in her stride. The 35-year-old has crossed some of the world’s most dangerous oceans during her career in the merchant navy and has loved every minute of it. The nautical science graduate of CIT is one of only nine women in this country to have her ‘masters certificate of competency’ which means she can command the world’s largest ships. She’s always loved the sea and joined Glandore Sailing Club when she was in primary school, progressing to becoming an instructor when she was in secondary school. Her original plan was to be a science teacher – so she could have summers off to pursue her passion for sailing. ‘But a career guidance teacher suggested I look into the merchant navy. It wasn’t something I thought of as you wouldn’t see too many big ships in Glandore!’ said Stephanie who embarked on the three year degree in 2003. It was a baptism of fire as in her second year, aged 20, the cadet-in-training was required to spend 12 months at sea (broken into three/four month stints). ‘I remember my dad bringing me to the ship I was assigned in Aughinish and I just thought “what have I signed up for?”’ Her first trip with Arklow Shipping was to Iceland and it was a bit of an eyeopener, she remembers. ‘There were about 16 people on board. We all had our own cabin with ensuite; but there was no TV in our cabins or wi-fi – although we didn’t have mobile cover in Glandore either so it wasn’t that different!’ On graduating from CIT she earned her ‘Officer of the Watch,’ which is essentially a licence to drive ships. Her first position after qualifying was with the Carisbrooke Shipping Company and she later joined the Danish shipping company Maersk with whom she sailed all over the world delivering cargo to its destinations. ‘For my first job with Maersk they flew me to LA and four months later I signed off in Hong Kong,’ she remembers. Her longest crossing with them would have been two and a half weeks across the Pacific but her work usually involved shorter voyages which would see her sail a ship to a destination in a few days. On the container vessels it was usually a 12 weeks on, eight weeks off rotation. A typical ‘day’s work’ would have seen Stephanie on duty from either 8pm to midnight or 8am to noon on the Bridge,

essentially making sure the ship stayed safely on course and avoiding any hazards to navigation. Consider a container ship is typically 250m-400m long and 100,000t in weight, apart from its cargo, to appreciate that task. There’s also planned maintenance to do outside of these hours and as third officer you are in charge of life saving appliances or firefighting equipment. For a second officer you are in charge of the upkeep of charts and navigational/bridge equipment. ‘What you’re doing is watching for targets on the radar; looking out for lights of fishing vessels and other traffic and ideally aiming for a minimum one mile

metres from the sea level!’ But they were well aware of the potential danger and at night time had all their windows blacked out, the barbed wire and fire hoses in place, had night vision goggles for look-out and had regular drills in case of an emergency.‘But day to day it just felt like any other job,’ she insists. In total Stephanie spent seven years with Maersk during which time she encountered some sexist behaviour and language, depending on crews and their culture, but it’s something she tends to brush off. ‘You just learn to develop a thick-skin and move on,’ she said. In general there’s camaraderie among

‘If a pirate boarded our ships I’d have shaken his hand ...’ zone around you at all times,’ she said, which isn’t always easy in the likes of the very busy Singapore Straits. She recalls one dramatic occasion in Yantian, near Hong Kong when a container ship coming in the opposite direction started passing down their port side, then changed direction to the starboard side, only to change again and come straight for them. ‘Needless to say I had to dramatically change course,’ she said. Fortunately, she never encountered pirates on any of her crossings but they regularly heard of smaller ships being boarded especially in the likes of North Africa’s Gulf of Aden. ‘If a pirate boarded our ships I’d have shaken his hand as we’re so high out of the water and proceeding quickly at 20 knots – we’re six to seven

All in a day’s work!

crews, and when off duty there’s a chance to mingle in common areas, watch TV and relax. Some ships have an alcohol free policy; her current ship has a bar, although there’s strict guidelines about consumption. During her time with Maersk she advanced her career further earned her Chief Officer certificate of competency from the National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy and also completed her bachelors degree in Nautical Science. She’s currently working with Trinity House, UK. Trinity House is a maritime charity which is dedicated to safe guarding shipping and which has Princess Anne as its master. Stephanie is on board the THV Galatea, as a 2nd officer/Chief Officer and

their work centres around inspecting buoys, lights and light vessels on the UK coast and assisting with the upkeep of lighthouses. ‘We have a crane that lifts the buoys on to deck, where they are cleaned and inspected before they are returned. We also have helicopters landing on board to replenish light houses on the coast of the UK,’ she explained. The boat goes to anchor most nights and she works three weeks on and three weeks off rotation. Home now is Merseyside where she lives with fiancé Mike who also works in the industry, as a Chief Engineer. In recent weeks, Stephanie has furthered her career by passing an oral exam, in Dublin which earned her, her Master’s Licence. Of the seven females in her class in CIT she’s the only one still working at sea and is one of only nine females to have obtained their masters certificates in this country. She would encourage any person to consider a career at sea. From a financial point of view it’s attractive – a starting wage for a third mate would typically be around £30-£35,000 sterling and some earnings are tax-free. ‘It’s also a good career to build up savings as there isn’t a chance to spend money – although with improved wi-fi there is now the temptation of online shopping!’ One useful attribute to have she feels is to be happy in your own company, although access to communication has improved greatly since she started out and there’s now the option of facetime to stay in touch with family and loved ones. Having good health and eye sight and, of course, liking the sea are also important. ‘There’s also lots of autonomy and independence with my work and a chance to get on with things which I like.’ She’s travelled the world during her career, but says there’s no place like Glandore when it comes to sailing and she enjoys visits home to parents Helen and Stephen. ‘I remember when I saw my first ship I wondered “what have I signed up for” but now I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,’ said Stephanie.

Careers & Courses 2019

BE PREPARED ...

Applied for a job, got an interview, but not sure how to prepare? Bandon-based HR expert Claire Lehane has some expert advice DO ... Research Preparation is the first step in the interview process. Researching the company will show your interest in the business and will make you stand out from other candidates. Start by looking at their website to get an understanding of what they do, then widen your research and look at what’s in the media, industry blogs and talk to anyone you know who is/ has worked for that company to get a deeper understanding. Don’t forget to mention all your research and efforts in the interview – it shows your eagerness. Know your CV and the role you are applying for Know your CV inside out. This might sound obvious, but you might have written your CV some time ago and have forgotten some of the specifics. It’s also important to have a good understanding of the role you are applying for. This goes beyond reading the job description - do further online research or speak to someone who is already working in that role. Go through each requirement listed in the job description and have an example in

mind of when you have demonstrated that skill. Prepare answers to potential questions and questions to ask Although you can never guess the exact questions you will get, there is a typical selection. Normally, the interview will start with questions around your CV and experience; e.g. ‘tell me about yourself’ or ‘talk me through your CV’. Following that the interviewer may ask you some competency/ scenario-based questions- e.g. ‘Tell me about a time when you worked as part of a team’ or ‘describe a situation where you solved a problem’. Towards the end, the interviewer may dig deeper to get an understanding of your motives and ask, ‘Why do you want this job?’ or ‘Why are you leaving your current role?’ A good tip would be to ask about the format of the interview in advance to help you prepare. Make a list of all possible questions and sample answers with examples and rehearse in advance. Be enthusiastic and positive Employers want to hire people that appear upbeat, enthusiastic and are likely to get along with their

colleagues and clients/customers. A positive, friendly attitude goes a long way in impressing an employer. Remember to dress to impress, think positive, talk about previous experience/ employers positively, be an active listener, communicate your strengths in a concise, factual and sincere manner, focus on posture, keep good eye contact and smile. If you can, just be yourself- everyone else is taken! Remember to breathe No matter how prepared you are, it’s likely that you’ll be thrown off by a question you weren’t expecting at some stage. Take a deep breath before you answer and if you need time to think, take a few sips of water. Your interviewer will appreciate you taking a few minutes to compose yourself, rather than blurting out something just to fill the silence. If you are still stuck on the question, just ask the interviewer if you can come back to the question - this gives you time to breathe and think clearly. Interviewers understand that this is a nervous setting. Follow up and evaluate the company As a courtesy and to ensure you’re

front of mind, send a follow-up email to the interviewer after your interview. Use the opportunity to thank them for their time and express your enthusiasm for the role. However, as much as it may seem you’re the one that’s being interviewed, remember that it works both ways. The company may want you onboard, but it might not be the right job or work environment for you. Evaluate the interview and all the information you have, to see if this is the right fit.

DON’T ... Don’t be negative or speak poorly about present/former employers Answering questions honestly is a requirement, but don’t be negative about a current or former employer or co-worker. This is one of the biggest mistakes job candidates make. Focus on the positive aspects, even if you disliked working there. When you are negative, the assumption typically made is that there are ‘two sides to every story,’ and the other side of this story may have something very negative to say about you. The interviewer will also assume you could speak poorly about them in the future.

Careers & Courses 2019

Don’t falsify information Answer questions truthfully. Explain and describe your experience and achievements that truly reflect your past experience. If you are being probed in an area that is not a strength, be honest and let your interviewer know you are willing to learn and up-skill in this area. Similarly, if you are asked about your weaknesses, you should acknowledge them before quickly outlining the steps you are taking to improve in these weak areas. You may be tempted to lie about your skills and achievements but even if you manage to get away with it in the interview, your lack of skills and experience will only be exposed on the job. Don’t be aggressive or cocky It’s great to be confident but it’s quite another to come across aggressive or cocky. Try not to overdo it. This can be off-putting for an interviewer. The interviewer wants to see that you are a real person. While interviews are great for people who love to talk, they are also an exercise in listening- it shows that you are respectful and have strong interpersonal skills.

Don’t talk about salary, bonus, holidays, promotions unless asked: Prematurely asking questions about salary, benefits or holidays etc makes you look interested only in the money and perks and not the content of the job or the company. It is best if you delay asking these questions until you receive an offer. Don’t show a lack of knowledge about the company: With so much information online these days, there are no excuses for not knowing about the company and its industry. If you have no knowledge about the company, it could appear that you are being lazy and disinterested. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification: If you don’t understand a question; ask for it to be rephrased. It shows that you are conscientious, and confident. It is much better than misunderstanding a question and giving an unsuitable answer.

Claire’s tips on compiling a five star CV Writing a CV can be a stressful task, especially if it’s your first time doing it or if you haven’t updated it in a long time. Although there’s no one-size-fits-all for the perfect CV, it should always be clearly formatted and most importantly tailored to the role and company you’re applying for. Here are some other pointers •

Keep your CV two to three pages long maximum. Try not to list every job, skill and degree you’ve ever had; it’s better to only include relevant details.

•

Choose a clear, professional font to ensure that your CV can be easily read.

•

Spell check, look for grammar errors and get someone to review your CV.

•

Be consistent – if you write in the third person, do it all the way through. If you’re updating your CV, don’t write the update in a different font or style to the original.

•

Tailor your CV for every job application. Edit it in line with the job description, ensuring it matches the specifications every time.

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INTERVIEWS late August early September emptions for: Medical C Design CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING APPLIED SCIENCES Computer Game & Development L5 & L6 Networks & Cyber Sec Courses startAPPLIED September SCIENCES MEDIA TECHNOLOGY Fashion Design L5 L5 &SERVICES L6 Architectural Technology L5 Animal Care – Canine Husbandry Hairdressing Year 1 & 2 Film, TV & Video Production L5 Animal Care – Canine Husbandry L5 Over 50 Full-Time Certified Courses Animal Care – Companion & Captive Networks & Cyber Security L5 & L6 SERVICES Advanced Film, TV & Video Animal Production Pharmacy Assistant L5 L5 Animal Care – Companion & Captive Design 4 Homes Studies L6 L5 Apply Online: www.stjohnscollege.ie Hairdressing Year 1 & & e-Travel L5 & 6 L5& Design L5 & L6 Creative Digital Media L5 &Canine L6 Studies and Management L6TourismMechanical Animal Studies L5 Card & VTOS InteriorEngineering Architecture Financial Exemptions for: Medical Pharmacy Assistant L5 SERVICES Interior Architecture & Design HND Canine Studies and Management L6 Photographic Studies L5 & L6 Design 4 Homes L5 Motor Maintenance & Light Engineering L5 Animal Management & Enterprise L6 Fashion Design L5 & L6 emptions for: Medical C & L6 ENGINEERING Tourism & e-Travel L5 APPLIED SCIENCES Hairdressing Year & Small Wedding Planner L5 1&&L62 L5 Interior & Design Motorcycle L5 & Venue L6 Animal ManagementCONSTRUCTION & Enterprise & Engine Maintenance Veterinary Nursing L5 & Architecture L6 Architectural Technology L5 Animal Care – Canine Husbandry L5 Interior Architecture DesignSecurity HND Instrument Networks & &Cyber L5 &Pharmacy L6MakingAssistant CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING L5 & L6 Musical & Repair L5 L5 & L6 Science & Laboratory Techniques L5 AnimalVeterinary Care – Companion &Nursing Captive MEDIA TECHNOLOGY Tourism & e-Travel L5 & 6 AnimalScience Studies L5 & Laboratory Techniques L5 Venue & Wedding Planner Studies L5 L5 & L6 Architectural Technology L5Science with Environmental Mechanical Engineering L5 Canine Studies and Management L6 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Building Construction L5 Environmental Studies L5 Motor Maintenance & Light Engineering L5 AnimalScience Management with & Enterprise L6 MEDIA TECHNOLOGY St. John’s Central College, ART &Skills DESIGN Applied Computer Training Course L5 Motorcycle & Small Engine Maintenance L5 Veterinary Nursing L5 & L6 Furniture Making & Restoration L5 SERVICES Design 4 Homes L5 Sawmill Computer Street, Cork Musical Instrument Making & Repair L5 & L6 Science & Laboratory Techniques L5 Game Design & Development L5 & L6 ART & DESIGN Mechanical Engineering L5 Photographic Studies L5 & L6 HairdressingT:Year & 25500 Science with Environmental Studies L5 021 1425 E: info@stjohnscollege.ie Interior Architecture & Design L5 & L6 Motor Maintenance &Central Light Engineering L5Street, Cork W: www.stjohnscollege.ie Art, Craft & Design L5INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY St. John’s College, Sawmill ART & DESIGN Pharmacy Assistant L5 Applied Computer Training Course L5 Interior Architecture Design Motorcycle &T:Small Engine Maintenance L5 Fine Art - Painting & Sculpture L6 021&425 5500HND E: info@stjohnscollege.ie Photographic Studies L5 & L6 Computer Game Design & Development L5 & L6 Tourism & e-Travel L5 & 6 Musical Instrument Making L5 & L6 Collaborative & Community Art L5St. John’s Central College, Sawmill Street, Venue & Wedding L5Cork &Fashion L6& Repair W:Planner www.stjohnscollege.ie Design L5 & L6 Cartoon Animation L5 & L6 T: 021 425 5500 E: info@stjohnscollege.ie NetworksEMPLOYMENT & Cyber Security L5 & L6 EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: · PROGRESSION FashionFashion Design L5 & L6 Design L5 & L6 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MEDIA TECHNOLOGY W: www.stjohnscollege.ie Networks & Cyber Security L5 & L6 Graphic Design & Illustration L5 Applied Computer Training Course L5 EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: EMPLOYMENT · PROGRESSION · NON CAO SERVICES Computer Game Design & Development Illustration L6 Design 4 Homes L5L5 & L6 SERVICES Design 4 Homes L5 Hairdressing Year 1 & 2 Computers & Office applications L5 & L6 Jewellery Making & Art Metalcraft L5 & L6 Interior Architecture & Design L5 & L6 Hairdressing Year 1 & 2 Interior Architecture & Design L5 & L6 Pharmacy Assistant L5 InteriorDesign Architecture &4Design HND Cloud Computing L5 & L6 Interior Architecture & Design HND Homes L5 Pharmacy Assistant L5 Tourism & e-Travel L5 & 6 Venue & Wedding Planner L5 & L6 Tourism & e-Travel L5 & 6 Venue & Wedding Planner L5 & L6 Creative Technology Arts L5 Interior Architecture & Design L5 & L6 Photographic Studies L5 && L6 MEDIA TECHNOLOGY Interior Architecture & Design HND IT Sales & Digital Marketing L5 St. John’s Central College, Sawmill Street, Cork MEDIA TECHNOLOGY Venue & Wedding Planner L5 & L6 Networks & Cyber Security L5 & L6 T: 021 425 5500 E: info@stjohnscollege.ie Software Development L5

W: www.stjohnscollege.ie

St. John’s Central College, Sawmill Street, Cork T: 021 425 5500 E: info@stjohnscollege.ie W: www.stjohnscollege.ie

Photographic Studies L5 & L6

EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: EMPLOYMENT • PROGRESSION • NON CAO St. John’s Central College, Sawmill Street, Cork EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: EMPLOYMENT · PROGRESSION · NON CAO EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: EMPLOYMENT · PROGRESSION · NON CAO Photographic Studies L5 & L6

T: 021 425 5500 E: info@stjohnscollege.ie W: www.stjohnscollege.ie

EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: EMPLOYMENT · PROGRESSION · NON CAO

Careers & Courses 2019

A WIDE RANGE OF COURSES AT WEST CORK CAMPUS Based in the old Rossa College building in Skibbereen, this branch of Cork College of Commerce is proving to be an invaluable educational resource for the people of West Cork As a student of the West Cork Campus, the college maintains a close relationship you can avail of a wide range of QQI with local businesses & service providers Level 5 & 6 programmes in Skibbereen through the Work Experience placements delivered by experienced that is included in all tutors; benefit courses and in the from excellent direct recruitment of hly I would hig resources, college graduates. The e th nd recomme including college has extensive d o o h Early Child tion up-to-date and very valuable a c u d E Care & technology, progression links to e n o y an Course to rk one-toUCC, CIT etc as well o w to who wants re one Career as great employment e a c rs u ild o h in the c rs. The c to c e Guidance, a opportunities arising s n d o cati u nee care/edu wledge yo o n Jobs Hub & Jobs out of the QQI k e rt o th p ll p provides a this sector. The su Register and a qualification. ! e in n o d n e to succe econd to s s a Student Support w rs to e from the tu er of staff within th Service for those New courses b m to e l m fu ry lp e e Ev re than h with particular There are a o m s re a a w b-sh college educational number of new gained a jo my new e v a h I . s f u all of e field o th in needs and serve programmes on lly a c position lo your transport offer this September is ! th n g o n ti pleti qualifica is, not com needs by using including: Business t re g re ly My on ! o g the Local Link Administration a 5 l rs a QI Leve course ye ombes, Q transport available with a choice of

Nora Co

d Studies

dhoo from Bantry and two specialities Early Chil Clonakilty to and – Medical from the college. Administration or The West Cork Campus in conjunction Farm Business; Festival/Event Organiser; with the Cork City Campus – Cork College Hairdressing; Market Gardening of Commerce continuously engage in the (redevelopment of current Horticulture development of new and the modification programme); Sports for All; Tourism & of existing programmes. Driven by Travel Consultant, all at QQI Level 5. The demand for graduates by local employers, QQI Level 6 Professional Arts Practice is

also being reintroduced. The QQI Level 5 & 6 courses are for everyone, postleaving cert students, mature students Last year saw me transition back into education. This was quite daunting to me and I was uncertain whether I would be able to accomplish what I ha d set out to do. The teachers and sta ff were very friendly, welcoming, helpful and always went that extra mile for the student. The college itself wa s really nice environment. I owe my achievements and successes throu ghout the year to the teachers and sta ff who made my learning experience very enjoyable. If anyone is considerin g a course here or has any questions don’t hesitate to contact Máire. Sh e is always there to help you or point you in the right direction. I would hig hly recommend choosing a course in the West Cork Campus, Skibbereen

John O’Donovan QQI Level 5 eBusine ss and individuals who want to make a career change or pursue further study. Once you become a student of the West Cork

Campus, a wide range of options become available to you – building your confidence and skills to reach your potential! I decided to attend the West Cork Campus as I was just after doing the Leaving Cert and wasn’t sure what I wanted to d me to work do. The course allowe se to home clo s wa it part-time and ve to worry about for me, so I didn’t ha vel. I learned accommodation or tra improved on d an ills so many new sk year, and I had many more during the a placement the opportunity to do ultant’s office, ns in an agricultural co nce what office where I got to experie ve the opportunity life was like. I now ha vel in the future Le to progress to Third I qualification. QQ my ing if I want to, us l-time in my local Now, I am working ful ere I am putting solicitor’s office, wh ce. I absolutely cti pra all my skills into n’t be happier. love my job and I could rk Campus Co Studying at the West nities and it rtu po op gave me so many le year. was a really enjoyab

Siobhán O’Sullivan, Administration QQI Level 5 Business (Farm Business) (Continued >>)

Careers & Courses 2019 (Continued from opposite page) • The UCC HETAC Level 6 Certificate in Mental Health in the Community at West Cork Campus attracts people from a broad range of employment backgrounds: health professionals, social and community service workers, educators including people with self-experience and family members, and is delivered one evening a week. • The Accounting Technicians’ Programme will be delivered two evenings a week at the West Cork Campus over two years. This qualification is highly sought after by employers. Accounting Technicians are involved in the day-to-day practical work of accountancy and play a key operational role in producing reliable financial information. They can perform a wide range of finance roles, from accounts staff to financial controller and beyond. Hairdressing is just one of a number of new courses on offer in West Cork Campus from this September.

For more information about West Cork Campus and the courses on offer, see:

www.westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie

The college prospectus and further information are available by contacting 028-21644 or emailing westcorkcampus@ccoc.ie or Máire O’Sullivan (co-ordinator) maireosullivan@ccoc.ie

the After working in ing ish bl pu world of I for thirty years, of ge an needed a ch n, io ct re di d career an lp he to d te an w and an people rather th friend puter screen! A m co a staring at e dy completed th of mine had alrea e th e course at Level 5 Healthcar d Cork Campus, an t es W Skibbereen for up d ne sig I it. d de highly recommen as w it d e open day an the course at th y M s! ar ye e done in the best thing I’v s were from all kind es at m ss cla fellow ed and we all bond of backgrounds ressed and I’ve og pr as the weeks llege t friends. The co made some grea e e so supportiv and teachers wer their time and ith w and generous n nuinely sad whe patience. I was ge the all ith w en ev er ov the course was had assignments we various written d the en m m co uldn’t re to complete. I co gh. pus highly enou West Cork Cam b in Clonakilty I was offered a jo ital, where I sp Ho Community during ork experience completed my w . the course year QQI Level 5

Noeleen Mu rphy (QQI L Business 20 evel 6 18 – curren tl y , ta er k ill in M L e g g CIT vel 7 Busine Gre ss Degree a Healthcare t WCC)

WEST CORK CAMPUS - SKIBBEREEN ADULT EVENING CLASSES SEPTEMBER 2019 ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN’S & UCC MENTAL HEALTH COURSES START ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH ALL OTHER COURSES START THE WEEK OF MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH 2019 Class

Day

Tutor

Duration

AT Lecturers

26 weeks Contact West (two nights a week) Cork Campus

HETAC Level 6 Mental Health in the Community Monday (UCC)

6:30-9:30pm

UCC Lecturers

Sept-May (one night a week)

Contact West Cork Campus

Tai Chi

5:30-6:30pm

Carmel O'Connor

6 weeks

€70

Monday

Yoga

Monday

7-9pm

Irene McCarthy

6 weeks

€90

Autism & Play

Monday

7-9pm

Siobhán Dempsey 6 weeks

€90

QQI Level 5 Personal Effectiveness

Monday

6:30-9pm

Martin McCarthy

10 weeks

€220

QQI Level 5 Team Working Monday

6:30-9pm

Martin McCarthy

10 weeks

€220

22 weeks

QQI Maths (QQI 5)

Wednesday

5-7pm

Orfhlaith Dineen

Mini Me Yoga

Wednesday

7-9pm

Aisling McKennedy 6 weeks

WEST CORK CAMPUS, SKIBBEREEN QQI DAY COURSES COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 2019 QQI Level 5

Cost

6:30-9:30pm

Accounting Technicians

Monday & Wednesday

Time

€390 €90

I returned to the West Cork Campus in 2017 to co mp the Advance lete d Certificate in Business. W hile completing the business co urs the QQI Lev e, I also completed el 5 Maths which was available in also the evening s in the We Cork Camp st us. Having local access these cours to es is vital fo r me as I am unable to tr avel to Cork . The tutors were alway s so encou raging and helpful and wanted us to reach ou potential. It r full was tough to complete courses ba 2 ck to back but well wo the effort a rth s now I am completing the Bachelo r of Busine ss in Busine Administra ss tion throug h Cork Inst of Technolo itute gy which is available in West Cork the Cam I sincerely th pus in the evenings. ank all the staff of We Cork Camp st us. I would encourage anyone wis hing to com plete a cou to take tha rse t first step and visit th campus, it’s e life changin g.

LOCAL TRANSPORT LINKS FOR STUDENTS

PATH TO FURTHER STUDY OR THAT IDEAL JOB

Art Business Administration (Medical) Business Administration (Legal) Business Administration (Farm Business) Community Care Early Childhood Care & Education eBusiness Festival/Event Organiser NEW COURSE Hairdressing NEW COURSE Healthcare Horticulture Market Gardening NEW COURSE Sports For All NEW COURSE Tourism & Travel Consultant NEW COURSE

Mindfulness

Thursday

7-9pm

Susan O'Regan

6 weeks

€90

QQI Level 6

Excel for Beginners

Thursday

7-9pm

Noreen Kingston

6 weeks

€100

Complementary Therapies - Intro

Thursday

7-9pm

Mary O'Donoghue 8 weeks

€150

Art Business

QQI Supervisory Management (Level 6)

Thursday

6:30-9:30pm

Joseph Keane

14 weeks

€350

Creative Photography using Photoshop

Thursday

7-9pm

Nicholas Cooper

6 weeks

€120

Save €10 by enrolling online through our website http://westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie For information on the above ring the West Cork Campus on 028-21644 or email westcorkcampus@ccoc.ie or email the Coordinator maireosullivan@ccoc.ie Information Open Evening: Monday, September 2nd 2019, 6:30pm to 7:30pm.

MAKE A NEW START

EMPLOYER LINKS

COURSES RELEVANT TO LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES

ALL COURSES STARTING ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH 2019 http://westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie/ Online Applications can be made through the website For more information & a copy of our prospectus, please contact us. Telephone: 028-21644 Coordinator: Máire O’Sullivan westcorkcampus@ccoc.ie or maireosullivan@ccoc.ie West Cork Campus of the Cork College of Commerce

@westcorkcampus

Careers & Courses 2019

‘BE FEARLESS’

West Cork isn’t short of strong female role models, but there’s still a need for a change in mindset when it comes to women in the workplace, writes Aisling Meath

WHEN the marriage ban was abolished in Ireland in 1973, women no longer had to give up their jobs once they wed, but despite progress there is still a need for more equal opportunities for women in the workplace. For example there are less than 5% of women working on construction sites in Ireland so Women In Trades Network Ireland exists to encourage more women to find opportunities in this field. Women have traditionally supported each other on the road to change through organisations such as Network Ireland West Cork.

Ciara Lucy is the 2019 president of NIWC, which has over a 100 members, and is also the Director of Beacon AI - a global software company. She is passionate about helping women in all aspects of business, and this year’s motto for NIWC is ‘Be Fearless.’ ‘Network Ireland is a progressive organisation supporting the professional and personal development of women, she explained. ‘Our members are from charities, the arts, the public sector, budding entrepreneurs, SME owners, professionals and leaders in indigenous, multinational and non-profit organisations.

Ciara Lucy, centre, front row, with members of Network Ireland West Cork.

‘What I personally love about NIWC is the support that I get from other members’ said Ciara. ‘The camaraderie and positivity that exists within the network is very special. ‘My advice to young women starting out is if you want to pursue a career in whatever field - just go for it! Surround yourself with a tribe who will support you along the way.’ Blackwater Motors has many women working across all roles in their company with branches in Bandon, Skibbereen, Cork and Fermoy. ‘Alice Handke, a female technican,

has been based in the company for five years,‘ explained Jean Murphy, Marketing Manager, ‘and we believe that we have the only all-female sales team in a car dealership in the country – Kate Hegarty, Sarah O’Driscoll and Grace Collins – at our branch in Skibbereen.’ Deirdre O’Donovan spent many happy childhood summers in her mother Mary Hegarty’s home place of Ardfield near Clonakilty, where most of her extended family still live. Deirdre is the first woman to be appointed head of operational security and police at Cork Airport, with responsibility

Dr Katy Wareing, OMKO Bantry.

Deirdre O’Donovan, head of operational security and police at Cork Airport.

Careers & Courses 2019 for the full spectrum of the aviation security service. ‘The industry continues to be very male dominated, I think that it is changing now but it will take time,’ said Deirdre. ‘People nearly always register surprise when they see me, and if they can’t hide their surprise I just say it straight out - “I know- you were expecting a man!”’ ‘You get used to it. Most external correspondence I get usually starts with ‘Dear Sir’ so there is a bit to go in terms of changing mindsets. ‘I’m proud of what I’ve achieved given that my mother’s generation largely had to give up their jobs when they got married, and women in senior positions were few and far between when I started out in aviation. ‘I hope I have paved the way for other women and girls who might not have considered roles that are largely male dominated. The more women that go for these roles the more the mindsets will change and doors will open for others.’ History was made for West Cork women in 2016 when Margaret Murphy O’Mahony FF was the first female candidate ever to be elected to Dáil Eireann from the region since the foundation of the State. Deputy Murphy O’Mahony was previously also the first female Mayor of Bandon, and is currently the only female TD in Cork county. ‘All-in-all, I am delighted to make history and I hope this will encourage more

women and girls to enter politics.’ she said. A little over a year ago, Dr. Katy Wareing was a senior lecturer in medicine and currently heads up OMKO – a Bantrybased company who provide bespoke software development to SMEs and start-ups. She was awarded runner-up in Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur for Cork North and West, and won Network Ireland West Cork’s Emerging New Business award. Katy is passionate about science and inviting women to consider a career in technology. She has noticed that many conferences she attends on technological subjects are often devoid of women. ‘I had a moment at a conference when I realised there were no queues for the women’s bathrooms, it struck me that there just weren’t many women there, and that needs to be addressed.’ she said. ‘We need more women in science, technology, engineering and maths these subjects are changing the world.’ she continued. ‘At Leaving Cert age you are expected to know what your goals are, to have all the answers. Sometimes the path is more convoluted, and maybe like me you’ll get to 33 and realise you just helped bring a piece of technology, which has the potential to revolutionise cancer research, into the wider world. Sometimes it isn’t all about the destination; it’s about the multiple and varying journeys along the way.’

Grace Collins, Katie Hegarty and Sarah O’Driscoll (inset) are the sales team at Blackwater Motors in Skibbereen. They are believed to be the only all-female sales team in a car dealership in the country. (Photo: Anne Minihane)

Working in Clonakilty and serving Ireland…… as bylargest an American. Wedescribed are one of the employers in West Cork and we are looking to fill open roles across a

number of contracts in our head office in the West Cork Business & Technology Park in Clonakilty. When I walked into Capita Customer Solutions (CCS) on my first day of work, I’ll admit that I was nervous. I had never worked in Are you interested in Iworking for aworked dynamic an operations centre before; had never even in Ireland before. company with contracts including some of A lot of people in Westbrands? Cork know CCS & Ireland’s leading We(formerly offer competitive ) for their work in the Agribusiness field. I didn’t remuneration, benefits including maternity — I’m an American — I didn’t even know that Agribusiness was a & paternity pay, company pension and the field. opportunity to start and yourincareer. We But, as I quickly discovered, Capitagrow is involved a wide range of industries, just agriculture — from oursuch Clonakilty & Little& have very not active People Groups as Social Island offices, we provide essential business services to Ireland’s Charity, Wellbeing, Recognition, Sports & Fitness, leading companies & brands and interact with almost every all working tocountry. ensure you have a well-rounded household in the working life experience. ofbreak, thisaon your As I sat in the canteen on my first All lunch wide array of people introduced to me, offering tea and welldoorstep herethemselves in beautiful West Cork. wishes. They told me a little about what they did and what customer they worked with. The people who came up to me that first day in Clonakilty were from different places — anywhere within 30 miles, from Cork City, Macroom, Inchigeelagh, Bantry, Skibbereen and more. They were all different ages — from Uni students to…well, I’ll just say the older generation, many of them driving their careers forward.

But they all had one thing in common: they all care about our clients’ success. Our roles include: I’d describe CCScurrent as a diverse, open flexible and supportive company that allows you to carve out paths toward roles and careers Accounts Receivable Agents that you have never considered before, from Operations, to Permanent Full Time Finance, to IT, and many more. You can move sideways, or Representative upwards,Customer or both. ThereCare are plenty of industries to choose from — utilities, media, telco, Full banking, etc. — and you will have the Permanent Time support of CCS behind you, through the training programmes Customer Agents such as; customer careService skills, career workshops and mentorship Permanent Part Time – (Evenings & Weekends) initiatives, etc. If I was asked would I recommend CCS to a friend? Yes! Customer Service Agent Permanent - 20 hrsyou per week If you want to work and Part grow, ITime honestly think don’t need to look further. Capita has exciting opportunities for you.…….and (Mon-Fri, 4pm-8pm) I’ll be the one making the tea next time!

For more details on these opportunities go to our website Rob O’Donnell www.capitacustomersolutions.ie/careers/vacancies/ About the author Rob O’Donnell is a full time agent in our operations centre in Send your CV with note delivering to Clonakilty. As well as being a vital cover team member services for our clients, he is also an accomplished journalist & careers@capitacustomersolutions.ie story writer.

Email: careers@capitacustomersolutions.ie or enquiries@capitacustomersolutions.ie Head office: +353 (0)23 883 2800 www.capitacustomersolutions.ie/careers

Connect with us on 13

es e nd

Careers & Courses 2019

TURNING OVER A NEW LEAF Retirement is not so much the end of an era as it is the start of a new and exciting one for those who want to stay active and involved, writes Niamh Hayes RETIREMENT is an exciting chapter in one’s life. More time and freedom to do the things you have always wanted to do and achieve the things you have always wanted to achieve. Whether it’s the desire to take up a new hobby, learn a new skill, study a new subject or work in a new job, it is important for health, both physically and mentally, that we continue to stimulate ourselves on a day-to-day basis. The concept of life after retirement is changing. People are living longer, healthier lives and can have a huge amount of energy and time to give. But the challenge for older people is to remain relevant and find purpose that leads to continued happiness and fulfilment. Retirement can be an opportunity to try

something new, by shifting to a different line of work, whether that is by starting an educational course or getting a new job to fulfil personal life goals. People choose to continue working after retirement for a number of reasons. Financially, retirement can be a difficult time, and some may choose to continue working to continue earning money. Others may choose to continue working because they enjoy what they do, and others may want to try their hand at a new career. There may be opportunities to stay on in your own workplace in a different capacity, such as doing part-time or casual hours. Speak to your employer if you think this is something that you might like. Freelance work can also be an option.

It enables you to work around your schedule and be as busy as you choose to be with it. You can stay within the area which you retired from, in jobs such as consultancy work or writing, or try something new. Working with and around people is a good idea after retirement as it is important to stay connected to others and not isolate yourself from society. It is also important to pick a job that will suit your physical needs

as you get older. Jobs such as caretaking, tour guiding and driving are good options as they generally provide regular work, with regular hours, in a social setting. You also have the advantage of having an employer and all the benefits that come with being an employee. Or maybe you want a complete change? By retirement, you have spent much of your life working. During those working years, maybe the voice of your inner child kept telling you that you should have become the person that you always imagined yourself becoming, whether that was an astronaut or nurse. Well, retirement is the perfect time to become that person. Returning to education can be a hugely positive step for older people. Whether

SmartMe.ie is the central location for all educational adverts in Ireland, from national school level right through to evening and night courses with everything in-between! If you offer classes, sell school/college books, give grinds or sell college notes, why not advertise with SmartMe.ie It’s the best way to promote what you have to offer or advertise what you may be looking for.

Book your adverts today! 14

Returning to education is a very positive step for retirees who may be looking for a challenge. It could be to learn a completely new skill or to brush up on something that you haven’t done for years.

Careers & Courses 2019 you want to go back and sit the Leaving Certificate you never did, or you want to upskill in your area of expertise, or you want to learn something completely new and become that astronaut or nurse, nowadays there are courses available to suit everyone’s needs. Having been out of the education system for some time, the thought of going back may be a daunting one for some retirees, but it doesn’t have to be. Courses such as learning basic computer skills or office administration are available in a range of locations. The Cork Education & Training Board runs evening classes in a number of West Cork towns, including Bantry, Dunmanway and Schull. They aim to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to be an active member of the learning group. Both day and evening courses are available at Cork College of Commerce’s West Cork Campus in Skibbereen in areas such as accounting, art, business administration, horticulture, mental health and tourism. Kinsale College runs a range of courses too, including outdoor education, cookery, drama, television production and office administration. Some secondary schools, including Clonakilty Community College and St. Brogan’s College in Bandon, run night classes during the academic term, in areas such as sugar craft, languages, painting and stress management. These classes are a good option if you want to get a taster of something that you might be

Working with and around people is a good idea after retirement as it helps keep you connected. interested in, before you pursue it further. If travelling to a course is not an option, thanks to modern technology, learning from home is now a possibility. Many educational institutes run distance learning courses whereby you study and do the course work from your own

laptop or computer, you can attend online lectures, and submit your course work through their website. The Irish Training & Educational Centre, The Open College, as well as colleges such as University College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology provide online courses in a range of areas.

Mary E Bollard MA BMus HDE LTCL ARCM Cert ESA

MA BMus LTCL ARCM Cert ESA Technical and Creative Guidance for Violin Viola and Piano Students

It is a good idea to choose to make your retirement an exciting and fulfilling chapter in your life and keep your mind and body healthy for many years to come by continuing to work, choosing a new career path, or studying something that has always interested you.

“My son achieved an A1 in his Leaving Certiicate Music Higher level exam. Mary is passionate about music, dedicated to her pupils and instills a love of music in them. She is a wonderful teacher” Michael - Headteacher

Teagasc West Cork

“Mary made some excellent Technical and Creative adjustments to Mairead’s (10) Junior & Leaving Certificate musicGuidance Expressions of Interest in technique playing trad, following just for violin and viola players session. Her sound, posture and GREENoneCERT COURSES Competitions, Auditions, ABRSM playing facility improved as a result (QQI LEVEL of a holistic approach”6) Maura - Mum Junior and Leaving Certiicate examinations, Suzuki welcome performance assessments From ages 4 to Adults “Mary has been very supportive and Course benefits include great guidance to my daughter Competitions, Auditions, Megan who continues to excel Fit for farming(14), training ‘Mary has been very supportive ‘My son achieved a H1 in his coming irst in local and national Leaving Certificate Music and great guidance to my Benchmark farmer knowledge/ ABRSM examinations competitions, within her age group Higher level exam. Mary daughter Megan (14), who experiences and well above” Julie - Mum continues to excel coming is passionateSuzuki about music, Positive Rate of Return first in local and national dedicated to her pupils and

instills a love of music in them. She is a wonderful teacher’ Michael - Headteacher

competitions, within her age group and well above’ Julie - Mum

Muireann’s (10) distinction in her grade 8 Call:adjustments 086to8202050 ABRSM exam followed with technique playing trad, maximum points in her following just one session. Her E: elizabeth3339bollard@gmail.com audition at CIT Cork School of sound, posture and playing ‘Mary made some excellent

facility improved as a result of a holistic approach’ Aine - Mum

‘My daughter achieved a

Music to enable her to achieve a place on the degree course there’ Ruth - Psychologist

Inheritance reliefachieved a distinction “My tax daughter her grade ABRSM exam followed Eligibilityinfor farm 8partnership

with maximum points in her audition at CIT Cork School of Music to enable hercontact to achieveyour a place on the degree Education Officer Please local Teagasc course there” Murt Fitzgerald - Skibbereen Office - 028 21888 Elmarie - Psychologist

Pat Flannery - Macroom Office - 026 41604

Thomas Curran - Regional Manager - Cork West

Call: 086 8202050 • E: elizabeth3339bollard@gmail.com 15

Careers & Courses 2019

AN EXTENSIVE MENU Be it front-of-house or behind-the-scenes, product development or marketing, the food industry offers a tasty selection of job opportunities, writes Niamh Hayes FOOD is essential to life. Without it, we would not survive. It consumes much of our day as we cook, eat and think about what we will have for our next meal. Some people love it so much that they choose a career in it. Nowadays, no matter what aspect of food you like, there is a career choice out there. From being a chef in a kitchen, to running your own business, working for a large company or working in the food science or technology areas, the food industry continues to grow. To work as a chef in a kitchen, there are many paths you can take to get there. A range of courses are available in colleges that can have you prepped for a career in cookery. Kinsale College and Cork College of Commerce both run professional cookery courses which not only teach practical culinary skills, but there is also a focus on food science, nutrition and hygiene. Both courses include work experience which allows you to build on your skills in a working environment. Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) provides chef de partie and national sous chef apprenticeships. A chef de partie is a chef in charge of a particular area of production in a restaurant, while a sous chef is the second in command in a kitchen, ranking after the executive chef. Both apprenticeships involve time in college and getting on-the-job training in an approved restaurant or hotel. If you already work in a kitchen, there may be opportunities to up-skill and change the direction of your food career. Some hotels and restaurants will provide the necessary time and allowances to let their staff up-skill. Adam Medcalf, Head Chef at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, thinks it is important to offer further training to employees. ‘We offer in-house training in customer excellence, food hygiene and manual handling, as well as further training for supervisors and managers to become better trainers. We have sent chefs on upskilling courses to CIT and in conjunction with our suppliers. All this and more is done to allow the team here to grow their careers,’ says Adam. Learning and understanding the art of

cookery can lead to a range of careers. As well as working in the kitchen of restaurants, hotels, cafés and bars, you can choose to work in the catering of special events, work within a large national or multinational company that provides in-house catering services, or work in the quirky surroundings or a food truck or similar modern-day food service provider. If you like cooking but would also like to get a broader understanding of the food industry, a course in culinary arts may be an option. CIT runs such a course which looks at food and wine and its impact on society and our way of life. Then there’s hospitality studies or management which prepare you for a career in food and beverage service, accommodation, customer relations, or the

management of hotels, restaurants, resorts and other hospitality venues. Such courses can be found at Cork College of Commerce and CIT. The area of business and management can lead you in many directions within the food industry, including the setting up and running of your very own food business. Start-up food businesses are growing in popularity, as can be seen in many areas of West Cork, with outdoor and mobile catering facilities and food trucks popping up in lots of places, as well as the opening

Careers & Courses 2019 of many new cafés and restaurants. Food product development is another area within the food industry that is growing, with plenty of innovative products coming out of West Cork. All you need is an idea and a dream to make it work. There are also many opportunities within existing food companies for someone who is interested in food and business, in areas such as marketing, sales and policy development. University College Cork (UCC) runs courses in food business and innovation, food marketing and entrepreneurship, and food policy, while CIT runs a course in culinary entrepreneurship. Science is another area within the food industry. Both UCC and CIT provide courses in nutritional, food and health sciences

which look at the make up of food, what it does to our bodies and how we can use it for our benefit, including for health reasons or sports performance. Coláiste Stiofáin Naofa also runs a food, health and nutrition course with emphasis on the nutritional content of food and the development of new innovative food products. Food technology is a branch of food science that looks at areas such as food production, processing, preservation, fermentation and product screening. The great thing about the food industry is that no matter what aspect of food you like; cooking it, the science behind it, its place in the ever-changing world of technology, or the business aspect of it, you are sure to find a career that suits you.

Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Office Cork North & West’s upcoming events this Autumn: Women in Business Programme – West Cork

This women in business programme is open to small companies (those employing 1-10 employees) within the West Cork catchment area. It is suitable for a female business owner trading with 12 months+. It is ideal for those who wish to broaden and develop their knowledge in the areas of: strategic business planning, finance, raising money, marketing, sales, public relations, pitching, the business plan. If you are looking for assistance to move your business to the next stage of growth, this programme is for you and your business. Dates: Thursday 5th, 12th , 19th , 26th September; 3rd,10th , 17th , 24th , 31st October 2019 Time: 10.00am-5.00pm Location: West Cork (to be confirmed) Cost: €150 per participant

How to apply: Call or email us for an application form to complete. Start Your Own Business Programme #1 - Kinsale

If you have a business idea and want to research it in detail, this programme is for you. It will guide you through all the steps involved in starting and managing your own business. If you have recently started your own business, this programme will also benefit you. Modules covered include: business planning, market research, costing and pricing, financial and cashflow management, book-keeping, revenue & social welfare, the business plan, sales and online marketing. Dates: Wednesday 25th September, 2nd, 9th, 16th October 2019

Time: 10.00am-5.00pm

Location: The Trident Hotel, Kinsale

Brexit Customs Workshop #1: Customs Export & Import Procedures

Time: 10.00am-5.00pm

Regardless of a hard or soft Customs Brexit, goods to/ from the UK or transiting through the UK, will be subject to strict compliance and documentation requirements. This workshop will cover how export and import customs will impact trade with the UK as a ‘Third Country’, how tariffs work and the need to correctly classify your goods.

Cost: €80 per participant

Time: 9.30am-4.30pm

Cost: €80 per participant

Start Your Own Business Programme #2 – Rosscarbery Dates: Wednesday 16th, 23rd October & 6th, 13th November 2019 Location: Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery 10 Steps to Self Employment Seminar

If you think you would like to start your own business, come along to this short seminar to find out the 10 steps you need to think about when researching being self employed. This seminar is a MUST in part of your own research and is ideal before our standard Start your own business programme. Date: Tuesday 1st October 2019

Date: Friday 25th October 2019

Location: Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery

Cost: Free but pre-registration is essential Brexit Customs Workshop #2: Customs Export & Import Procedures Date: Wednesday 6th November 2019 Time: 9.30am-4.30pm

Location: Fernhill House Hotel, Clonakilty

Time: 10.30am-3.00pm

Cost: Free but pre-registration is essential

Cost: €10 per participant

Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices provide a variety of business supports to the micro-enterprise sector, please contact us at:

Cork & Kerry joint event at the Castlemartyr Resort in Cork celebrating female entrepreneurs, start-ups and growing and established businesses. Open to all women in business. Come along for networking and hear from our panel of speakers.

A: Local Enterprise Office Cork North & West, 8 Kent Street, Clonakilty T: 023-8834700 E: westcork@leo.corkcoco.ie W: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest

Location: Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery Save the Date: National Women’s Enterprise Day 2019

Date: Thursday 17th October 2019

Enquiries: Online from our website

Personal information collected by Cork County Council is done in order for us to process your representation/enquiry and legally we can process it as it is necessary for us to comply with our statutory legal obligations. The information will be processed in line with our privacy statement which is available on our website www.corkcoco.ie

www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest

Bandon Grammar School Co-Educational Boarding and Day

PART-TIME COURSES INFORMATION EVENINGS

Founded 1642

Bandon Grammar School, a Church of Ireland managed school working in a spirit of inclusion

WE OFFER

TUES 3rd SEPT: BUSINESS & HUMANITIES WED 4th SEPT: ENGINEERING & SCIENCE

• Broad, stimulating programme to help each pupil discover and reach full potential in a caring environment • Excellent academic, pastoral and guidance support by dedicated staff stimulating high achievement • Modern, comfortable boarding facilities • Strong tradition of inclusion of children with special needs • Unrivalled range of subjects including the full range of sciences, business subjects, 4 languages and many practical subjects • Exciting, innovative and ever-changing Transition Year Programme

CIT BISHOPSTOWN CAMPUS - 5.30pm to 7.00pm

T: 021 433 5900 E: opd@cit.ie

APPLY ONLINE:

www.cit.ie

pottery studio

Website: www.bandongrammar.ie • Email: office@bgsmail.ie • Phone: 023-8841713 Fax:023-8844404 • Twitter: @bandongrammar

Paint-your-own pottery Classes for Adults & Kids Birthday parties Bring-your-own-bottle parties Baby hand & foot imprints Coffee, Tea & Treats

Anyone can learn to make pottery 8 Market Street, @ CréSkibbereen, Pottery Studio Co. Cork P81 W867 | Tel: 028 22913 www.crepotterystudio.com

Classes for adults Classes for children Short courses or day workshops Individuals, couples or groups Parties, team building activities and weddings

All classes and workshops must be booked. Cré Pottery Studio 028 22913 8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork P81 W867 • Paint-your-own pottery • Pottery classes; Adults & Kids www.crepotterystudio.com • Learn to throw on the wheel Sophie • Birthday parties Miall & Suzanne O’Connor • • • •

pottery studio

Bring-your-own-bottle parties Baby hand & foot imprints Groups welcome Coffee, Tea & Treats

18 pottery studio

Cré Pottery Studio 8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork |P81 W867 Tel: 028 22913 | www.crepotterystudio.com Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor

• Emphasis on the visual and performing arts, music, choir, debating, poetry and essay competitions • Modern specialist and general classrooms, laboratories, workshops, lecture theatre, all superbly fitted with the latest technology • Wide choice of sports, clubs and after-school activities on over 30 hectares of campus • Intensive and inclusive range of local and foreign tours • Bespoke IT system, second to none in the country • Evening study facilities available for day pupils • Applications for Form I next year close on 1st October 2019

For more information, give us a call and arrange a tour of our facilities

Why not join us for a class at CréSophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor Pottery. We have a fully equipped pottery studio with everything you could possibly need to make your own pottery. Sophie and Suzanne are on hand to help and guide you through all aspects of working with clay; handbuilding, sculpting, modelling and of course the potters wheel - we’ve got three! • • • • •

Principal: Ian Coombes, B.A., H.D.E., M.Ed.

Paint-your-own pottery Classes for Adults & Kids Birthday parties Bring-your-own-bottle parties Baby hand & foot imprints Coffee, Tea & Treats 8 Market Street, Skibbereen, Co. Cork P81 W867 | Tel: 028 22913 www.crepotterystudio.com

Sophie Miall & Suzanne O’Connor

Careers & Courses 2019

A TASTE OF REALITY An internship offers students the chance to put their studies into action and to experience the ‘real world’ of work, writes Aisling Meath INTERNSHIP opportunities in a variety of sectors are available locally in West Cork, such as with technology company Spearline, which specialises in testing phone numbers globally from their base in Skibbereen. ‘At Spearline we are always looking for talented people to join our team,’ said Lorraine McCarthy, HR and operations manager. ‘We offer internships across all of our departments – Development, Product, Support, Marketing, Customer Engagement, Sales, Operations, HR and Finance. Students at any level can contact us directly at hr@spearline.com or third level students can approach us through their colleges. We are a technology business, which provides 24/7 support to our international customers – so internship opportunities are varied. ‘At Spearline we offer paid internships for third level students that last for three to six months, and unpaid internships for secondary school students – typically for one or two weeks. Our interns get a flavour of both business and technology, which are invaluable in today’s society. It also gives them practical experience that they can apply to any workplace or a direct link to us should they wish to work for us in the future. ‘At the moment there are six interns at Spearline. We have two from colleges – one from CIT studying software development on our Development Team for three months, and a UCC commerce student working in our HR and Operations Team for six months. ‘We also have three summer students on our Development Team. One of our interns was such a good fit for Spearline – and us for her – that she recently joined

our team on a full-time basis!’ Extended Campus was established as a single point of contact to support collaboration between enterprise or community groups with Cork Institute of Technology. Earlier in the year West Cork Model Railway village was making preparations to celebrate its 25th anniversary and reached out through Extended Campus to CIT MSc Business students to come up with a business strategy to make improvements that were suitable for the budget of a non- profit organisation. A market research project was conducted by the students, who then presented their strategies. The students gained valuable experience with a very unique organisation, and this process allowed them to think more practically

management with a Masters in Marketing Practice in CIT,’ explained Vicky. ‘My placement as “Marketing Intern” at CIT Extended Campus really helped to grow my confidence. Working in my intern role gave me much more experience than I could have ever imagined. I was able to dip my toe into different areas such as social media, website and graphic design, promotional material, content creation and events, and getting to work alongside some amazing people. ‘The experience I gained from working with Extended Campus led me into my upcoming role as Events Executive in Cork Chamber of Commerce. I am eager to start this new chapter and will take the skills, connections and experience I gained from studying and working in CIT with me along the way.’ John Hobanel is really enjoying his summer in West Cork on his internship with OMKO – a technical and software company in Bantry. He is a Software Development student from DCU and was delighted when the opportunity came up to get some practical experience. ‘The large influx of recent developments in technology has shown it to be at the advent of its potential. Software Development is the field that facilitates new technologies and ideas,’ he explained. This placement with OMKO has developed my problem-solving ability and allowed me to garner skills that a simple college textbook wouldn’t provide.’ he concluded. Meanwhile, UCC are currently looking for employers to take part in their Work Placement Scheme in the areas of marketing or food science. Students will be available for interview from October 1st.

‘One of our interns was such a good fit ... she recently joined our team on a full-time basis!’ when producing ideas for a business. In turn the Model Railway Village benefitted from the invaluable market research conducted by the class. ‘We were delighted to collaborate with the MSc in Marketing Practice on developing our marketing strategies’ said Maryanne Coughlan, marketing manager at the model village. ‘We found working with the students very beneficial and would recommend it to other businesses.’ Vicky O’Connor, a graduate of CIT is looking forward to starting her new role as Events Executive in Cork Chamber of Commerce, having been an intern under the Extended Campus scheme. ‘I followed my undergrad in tourism

Vicky O’Connor who interned under CIT’s Extended Campus scheme and who is now taking up a role as Events Executive with Cork Chamber of Commerce.

John Hobanel is interning with OMKO – a technical and software company in Bantry.

Careers & Courses 2019

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT ‘Adventure’ or ‘activity-based’ tourism is on the rise, and West Cork is a great place to be if you want to work in that industry writes David Forsythe

IRELAND’S booming adventure tourism sector is now worth a whopping €1.2 billion every year to the economy and that figure is set to increase substantially in the medium term. The spectacular natural environment, benign climate and relatively low population density means that Ireland is well placed to benefit from the ever-growing appetite among tourists for activity-based holidays. Growth in the sector has been rapid over the last few years, so much so that Ireland’s Association for Adventure Tourism (IAAT) was set up in 2018 specifically to cater for the adventure tourism sector’s interests. Despite what the name may suggest, adventure tourism is not just about

high adrenaline activities like mountain climbing and parachuting, but in fact covers a wide-range of activities that appeal to a very broad tourism market. Marine activities like fishing, kayaking, sailing and whale-watching all fall under the definition as do land-based activities like hiking, hillwalking and mountain biking. As consumers have become increasing environmentally aware and health conscious, demand for these sorts of holiday activities has grown exponentially and all the trends indicate that growth can only accelerate. Here in West Cork as elsewhere in Ireland, new greenways, blueways, trails and paths are constantly being developed but compared to Europe and North America the sector remains relatively underdeveloped. Like many people who

make their living in adventure or activitybased tourism, David Edwards’ business developed from his own leisure interests. He runs Courtmacsherry-based West Cork Charters (www.irelandseaangling. com). ‘I was always into fishing as a youngster and it’s something I seriously considered doing for a living early on, but the numbers just didn’t add up. I kept on fishing though and started with a small boat and began bringing friends out and that sort of thing, but it was still there at the back of my mind that one day I’d do it for a living.’ David had a successful career in telecoms but the lure of the sea never went away and eventually after he had made enough money to invest he set up his own charter business and West Cork Charters was born. Now firmly established he doesn’t regret his decision but says a

passion for what you are doing is essential in this line of work. ‘You don’t do this kind of thing to make lots of money,’ he said. ‘You can make a living for sure but there are lots of overheads, long hours and hard work, but if you love it then it all makes sense.’ Like many in the sector, rising insurance costs are a worry but David is optimistic about the future. ‘Many clients become friends and they come back every year. I’m busy all the time and it’s an enjoyable lifestyle. If you have a passion for it it can be a very good life.’ Back on dry land Gerry Crowley who runs West Cork Hiking (westcorkhiking.ie) has a similar story to tell. ‘I’d been a keen hillwalker for years,’ said Gerry. ‘I’d walked all over Ireland and during my holidays I’d often go on hiking trips abroad as well.’ Through experience Gerry became

Careers & Courses 2019

something of an expert on some of the more difficult hikes and treks in West Cork and Kerry and began bringing friends along with him who weren’t quite as familiar with the terrain as he was. ‘That’s really where it came from,’ said Gerry. ‘I was really acting like an unofficial guide anyway so I thought well there might be a bit of a business in this and that’s how it turned out.’ Gerry specialises in guided walks on some of the tougher treks around West Cork and Kerry and says that over the years he has definitely seen a steady growth in public interest. ‘More and more people are walking and climbing and biking. The interest is there and people want to push themselves a bit more than they once did. There are really two main types of guide – what I do which is guiding for the more difficult and strenuous routes; and then there is also huge growth in nature guiding and historical walks, that type of thing, so there is a wide range of opportunities out there. ‘We could probably also learn from the continent in terms of providing hostels along routes. In Europe that’s common practice as many people would be doing this sort of thing on fairly tight budgets. If we could tap into that market here a bit more there is huge potential.’

David Edwards, West Cork Charters

Get a qualification If you’re interested in getting a qualification that will help you find a job in activity-based tourism – or tourism in general – there is no shortage of options available to people in the West Cork area. See the following sites for further information: schullsailing.ie www.kinsalecollege.ie csn.ie www.cit.ie

KELLEHER ACCORDION SCHOOL BUTTON ACCORDION CLASSES Beginners and Advanced - children & adults Jeffers of Bandon, The Boys Club, Bantry Glasheen National School, Cork & Macroom Age 6 and upwards Junior & Leaving Cert Practicals covered

FOR ENROLMENT CALL

Gerry Crowley of West Cork Hiking.

NOREEN KELLEHER 087 2211582

www.kinsaleoec.com westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie www.atlanticseakayaking.com www.baltimoresailingclub.ie

Operating from Courtmacsherry aboard the fast, safe, comfortable ‘Silver Dawn’

Inshore fishing and offshore wild life trips as well as specialist Shark and Bluefin Tuna tag and release charters PH: 083 449 1403 www. irelandseaangling.com 21

Opportunities in Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí The spacious and modern campus at Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí is an ideal learning environment for those wishing to pursue QQI Level 5 qualifications in Office Administration Major Award (5M1997), Healthcare Support Major Award (5M4339) and in Nursing Studies Major Award (5M4349). With access to the very latest information and communications technology and equipment; participants in these courses benefit from a unique combination of learning through practical and active participation, specialised tuition and work experience opportunities. These courses have proven highly popular among a diverse cohort of applicants. Participants range from ‘gap year’ students seeking to enhance their research, planning and presentation skills in preparation for entering university or an institute of technology; through to mature students seeking a return to education, retraining and upskilling in anticipation of embarking on a new career path or progressing to Third Level. The Office Administration course aims to provide the skills necessary to meet the demands of working within a modern office environment. The course provides essential knowledge and expertise to students, equipping them with the means to work in a variety of administrative areas. The course offers a variety of subjects including Typewriting - Text Production, Word Processing, Database Methods, Payroll - Manual and Computerised, Communications, Information & Administration, Interview Techniques, Bookkeeping - Manual and Computerised, as well as a specific Medical Terminology module. This module has been introduced in response to demand from employers and focuses on enhancing students’ administrative capabilities in the areas of Health Care, Pharmaceuticals and Medicine. Students also participate in the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) course. With modules that encompass Internet and Email, File Management, Spreadsheet, Database, Presentation and Drawing and Word Processing. The QQI Level 5 courses in Health Care provide the essential elements of knowledge, competence and skill for academic progression or employment within Healthcare

settings. The course subjects will, upon completion equip students with the necessary skills to work within the Caring Profession as Nurses, Carers, Health Care Assistants and also Home Help Assistants. Learners who participate on this programme will complete ten individual modules, and then choose which major award they wish to apply for. Learners can only apply for one of the awards. This means the programme will appeal to learners who wish to become care assistants in nursing homes, hospitals etc. (Healthcare Support Certificate) and those that wish to progress to nursing at third level (Nursing Studies Certificate). The ten modules offered are Care Support, Care Skills, Infection Prevention and Control, Nursing Theory and Practise, Care of the Older Person, Communications, Health and Safety at Work, Work Experience, Human Growth and Development and Anatomy and Physiology. Successful graduates will be awarded the internationally recognized QQI Level 5 Certificate in Healthcare Support 5M4339 or Nursing Studies 5M4349 (Major Award 10 Modules) as well as additional training in Manual Handling and People Moving Training and certification (a requirement for work experience) and Certificate in Adult CPR (Irish Heart Foundation) The programmes in Office Administration, Healthcare Support and Nursing Studies commence in September 2019 and run to June 2020. Each course is timetabled from 8.50 a.m. to 2.25 pm Monday to Thursday, and from 8.50 to 11.30 a.m. on Friday. Each course is approved for ETB Grant Applicants and VTOS places are also available. For individual course content details – see www. colaistepobailbheanntrai.com E-mail: bantryplcinfo@gmail.com Walk in course application and information will be held on Wednesday 4th September from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm where tutors will be available to meet with you. For further information please contact: Siobhan O’Sullivan, Course Co-Ordinator, 027 56434 Geraldine O’Sullivan 086-1933636 Doris McGrath 087-6333229

COLÁISTE POBAIL BHEANNTRAÍ BANTRY, CO. CORK

ADULT POST LEAVING CERTIFICATE COURSES

Major Award QQI Level 5 n Office Administration n Nursing Studies n Healthcare Support

Ref: 5M1997 Ref: 5M4349 Ref: 5M4339

Courses Run: SEPTEMBER TO MAY

Monday to Thursday, 8.50am – 2.25pm and Friday 8.50am – 11.30am

Each course is approved for ETB Grant Applicants and VTOS places are also available. Students in receipt of a Medical Card, E.T.B, VTOS or Back to Education Grants are exempt from course fees, only.

Contact: Email: bantryplcinfo@gmail.com Tel: 027-56434 www.colaistepobailbheanntrai.com

Leaving Cert results freephone helpline 1800 265 165 Leaving Certificate results day and CAO offers time can be a fraught time for many students and their families. The National Parents Council Post Primary (NPCpp) Helpline 2019 offers free and confidential support. The Helpline is staffed by qualified, professional and very experienced guidance counsellors who will deliver one to one advice as the results are released and the CAO offers issued. These guidance counsellors are members of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC). To speak to a guidance counsellor call 1800 265 165. The dates and times of the Leaving Cert Exam Helpline 2019 are as follows: Tuesday 13th August 10am – 7pm Wednesday 14th August 10am – 7pm Thursday 15th August 1pm – 7pm Friday 16th August 8am – 7pm Saturday 17th August 9am – 1pm

Considering a career change or returning to employment? If so, Employability Service WE ARE RECRUITING West Cork may be of benefit to you

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Visit clonakiltytuition.com for details

KERRY / WEST CORK AREA

Join the Bluebird Care Team today. Apply now! For details on available positions, contact us today at KERRY kerrywestcork@bluebirdcare.ie or 066 7104015 / WEST

PEOPLE who have experienced an illness, an injury, or other health conditions may feel that there are few opportunities for employment for them but there can be and are opportunities. Employability Service West Cork can help someone overcome this hurdle. With over 14 years of experience of supporting people into employment, they have the skillset to help people find work. ‘We have a professional team operating from Kinsale to Castletownbere. EmployAbility Service West Cork ABOUTProtection. BLUEBIRD CARE is funded by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Building on extensive experience within Employers are employing people who can do the required job’ says Micheal the caring professions Bluebird Care has revolutionised the way is delivered in Hurley, co-ordinator of Employability Service West Cork. Ireland by concentratingcare on high quality customer service, whilst at the Micheal goes on to explain ‘we always focus on what people can do. Theresame time upholding the very best in professional care service provision in the home are jobs available in West Cork, it’s just about finding the correct job fit.both We and in the community. work with each person supporting them to find opportunities and come up with solutions to get to their chosen destination. We can use Government schemes such as Jobs plus and the Wage Subsidy Scheme to support people back to work. If all goes well, a job will follow’. Micheal added that ‘Employers continue to welcome the opportunity to use our job matching service to assist them with their recruitment needs.’ Mel is one of the people who availed of Employability Service: ‘Before I started working with EmployAbility Service West Cork it was difficult for me to find employment, my confidence had hit a very low ebb. My Job Coach worked with me on building up my confidence, we looked at what kind of jobs would suit my needs, we met weekly to come up with a plan and it worked! We discussed any concerns, fears that I had such as social welfare issues and came up with solutions. We applied for positions and it wasn’t long until I found employment, working 21 hours per week. This position is going well, I’m happier than I’ve been in years. If there is ever any concern I have about my work or other issues, I can discuss this with my job coach when we meet. Along with helping me find work, Employability Service West Cork helped me improve my CV, supported me preparing for interviews. All this help improve my confidence to enabled me to find employment. I would recommend anybody looking for help and support to find work to call Employability Service West Cork.’ Micheal Hurley explains that Employability Service West Cork job coaches are always happy to meet with people to discuss the service.

CORK AREA

WE ARE RECRUITING

Join the Bluebird Care Team today. Apply now!

KERRY / WEST CORK AREA

For details on available positions, contact us today at

WEkerrywestcork@bluebirdcare.ie ARE RECRUITING or 066 7104015

Join the Bluebird Care Team today. now! ABOUTApply BLUEBIRD CARE Building on extensive experience within the caring professions Bluebird Care has revolutionised the wayus care today is delivered For details on available positions, contact atin Ireland by concentrating on high quality kerrywestcork@bluebirdcare.ie or 066 7104015 customer service, whilst at the same time upholding the very best in professional care service provision both in the home and in the community. bluebirdcare.ie bluebirdcare.ie ™

ABOUT BLUEBIRD CARE Building on extensive experience within the caring professions Bluebird Care has revolutionised the way care is delivered in Ireland by concentrating on high quality customer service, whilst at the same time upholding the very best in professional NEWSPAPER care service provision both inWEB the home and in the community.

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Contact EmployAbility Service West Cork today in their offices in: Bantry (covering outreach offices in Castletownbere and Dunmanway) Martin Mulchrone or Erin Kelly Ashworth on 027-53765; Clare Gallagher in Skibbereen 086-8158786; Emer Sweeney and Iona Wilson in Clonakilty on 023-8858592 Darren Priest in Bandon 086-8101795 and Olga Mitchell in Kinsale on 0866007964. You can contact Micheal Hurley on 086-8546559 or email: coordinator.ewc@gmail.com Micheal concluded by explaining ‘We are an option for people to find employment. We would like to thank all businesses throughout West Cork for availing of supporting and for bringing employment opportunities to our clients. It is this trusted collaborative partnership that will continue to be the driving force of local employment for clients of Employability Service.’

Find candidates for temporary, part-time, full-time, junior & senior positions.

Contact Anne Kelleher or Jennifer Barron on: 028 21200 or advertising@southernstar.ie 23

BACK TO SCHOOL OR OFF TO COLLEGE

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www.skibbereencu.ie Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may aﬀect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future. Muintir Skibbereen Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland