Careers & Courses 2021 by southernstarIRL

AUTUMN 2021

Includes ‘Back to School’ tips & advice

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

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The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

Welcome to

Careers & Courses

Southern Star Media, West Cork’s locally owned news, sport, information and entertainment business, connecting local people, communities and businesses everyday

for 2021

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 selfdevelopment and education. 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. This year we have also incorporated a section with great ‘Back to School’ information for parents of younger people just starting on their school journey or who may already be in the primary or secondary system. You’ll find advice on interview techniques, adjusting to life at third level, homework, education costs, and we have an interview with president of Munster Technological University, Maggie Cusack – just the second woman to hold the role of university president in Ireland in over 400 years. Enjoy, and remember, learning is a life-long process! – The Southern Star team

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

Third-level learning in the wake of Covid BY BRIAN MOORE THERE is widespread agreement that it is of the utmost importance for students to return to their colleges and universities so that the third-level experience can and should get back to as ‘normal’ as can be expected while adhering to the Covid guidelines. However, accessing firm information, procedures and the ultimate plan for the return to campus has been difficult as many of the institutions await further advice from the government. This ‘return’ is vital not only for new students making their way to third-level for the first time, but also for the returning students and the staff who have spent the last year enduring online classes and a lack of vital, social interaction. However, with the government announcing a €105m package to ensure that third-level sector reopens in September, what will the post Covid campus look like? What can students expect when it comes to their safety, education and social activities? Universities and other third-level institutions have announced that the public health risks of time on campus this academic year will be balanced ‘against the known pedagogical, student experience, and mental health benefits.’ The third-level institutions have also said that they will ensure all campuses adhere to public health measures and they will also work to optimise ventilation systems, and manage timetables to avoid congregation.

Lecture theatres will be ‘actively managed’ by applying percentage occupancy limits, setting a maximum class size, or through setting an upper limit on lecture length, depending on local context and risk assessment. Universities and colleges will also continue to provide specific extra supports for students where required, and protect through reasonable accommodation any member of the research or learning community for whom vaccination is medically not available. Education Minister Simon Harris has said that limits on the number of people attending college lectures will mean some blended learning will continue into the next academic year, so online lectures and classes are here to stay for some time yet. ‘It may not be every lecture or every workshop, the numbers in the library may need to be smaller, and not all facilities will be open in exactly the same way,’ Minister Harris said. A spokesperson for the Munster Technological University (MTU), while outlining their plans for opening the campus in September said that the safety of their students and staff is the top priority. ‘While we are still awaiting more public health advice from the government, in particular, the social distancing requirement as this will dictate the capacity of our classrooms and lectures. Contingencies are in place for 2, 1 and 0 meters.’ High levels of vaccination among third-level students for the return in September are essential to reduce risk from Covid-19 and protect students, staff and people living in wider college 5

environments, such as the towns where students live. However, MTU has confirmed that they do not have plans to make Covid vaccination a mandatory requirement. We would encourage all students to get vaccinated but obviously it is a matter for each individual. The university is supporting the national vaccination initiative with vaccination centres hosted in the Kerry and Cork campuses.’ MTU has also confirmed that that there will be an online element to classes and lectures. Remote learning will be a feature of provision in the new academic year but the precise nature of delivery will be dictated by each academic area.’ Professor Maggie Cusack, President at MTU said, ‘There are lots of supports in place, we’ve learned loads when it comes to technology enhanced learning and from the feedback we have received from our students, while they have missed being on campus, people have benefited and realised that there are advantages when it comes technology enhanced learning.’ ‘So, it will be a combination or a blending of the different approaches to learning that will allow students to embrace all that MTU has to offer.’ In conclusion, Minister Harris has said: ‘We need to begin the next academic year on the right foot, get our learners and staff back on-site and start the work of preventing long-term effects of the pandemic for our youngest adults. I know this has been a tough year for students and staff but thankfully, a better year awaits you.’

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

Keep on truckin’ Ireland, along with the UK and some other European countries, is facing a critical shortage of HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers at present. These workers provide an essential lifeline for local communities and entire economies BY BRIAN MOORE IRELAND is facing a major transport crisis if nothing is done to support the training of those who want to work as Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers. From stock on supermarket shelves, to ensuring fillings stations have fuel for our cars, to making sure that milk is collected from farms, HGV drivers keep the economy moving. Right now there are almost 1,000 HGV driver vacancies across the retail, import/export, food supply chain, fuel/chemical supply chain and the construction industry. And this number is set to increase as more existing drivers retire or move to other employment opportunities. The situation is now critical, according to the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) which has warned that unless measures are put in place to increase the number of trainee HGV drivers quickly, the impact on the efficient and timely distribution of goods within Ireland and between the country’s trading partners will be serious and severe in the extreme. The Irish road haulage sector employs 50,000 people and is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers. In fact, there’s a need to train some 4,500 truck drivers over the next two years to meet demand according to the IRHA. This shortfall must be addressed to ward off the challenges to the effective distribution of goods in Ireland and beyond. The COVID

pandemic has also led to a higher turnover of drivers, with many having taken up jobs in other sectors. Keith Kelly, Operations manager at Lisavaird Co-Op here in West Cork is only too aware of the impact of the current shortage of trained HGV drivers – not only on the co-op’s day to day business, but for the future growth of the business in West Cork. ‘We have retirees who have returned to the

‘It’s all about the cost of training, it will cost anything up to €5,000 to get your HGV licence and then there are additional costs ever year to keep your skills up to date and to keep your Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) compliant. ‘This is a lot of money to invest both as an individual and for any company that depends on HGVs to operate,’ Keith said. In Lisavaird Co-Op at the moment, the com-

‘From stock on supermarket shelves, to ensuring filling stations have fuel for our cars, to making sure milk is collected from farms, HGV drivers keep the economy moving’ company to drive for us,. We couldn’t function without them, even our health & safety manager, who is a fully trained HGV driver, is also out driving helping to fill the gaps,’ Keith said. Keith feels that a career as a HGV driver is attractive to many but there is a barrier preventing more people from pursuing the career.

pany has a number of in-house staff training to take on their HGV licence, with the costs being absorbed by the co-op as there are no grants or supports available. ‘Lessons cost between €150 to €200 each and you need on average, ten to fifteen, coupled with the cost of renting a vehicle on the test 6

date, test fees and the cost of applying for the different licences, so this is an big investment on behalf of the company into the training of our staff,’ Keith said. ‘On top of the shortage of drivers other costs such as fuel, maintenance, cost of vehicles etc are rising and they are so high now that if something isn’t done within the next five years the transport industry is facing trouble and this will have a major impact on the country’s economic growth.’ ‘You can do a SOLAS course if you are a plumber, a carpenter, a bricklayer or a mechanic, so why isn’t there the same course available for those who want to drive HGVs? There must be a way for people to get into the industry that is supported by government so that the cost is manageable,’ Keith Kelly said. With this in mind, the Minister of State for Training John Halligan has stated that a threeyear HGV driver apprenticeship will be rolled out later this year with the IRHA as industry lead. However, the IRHA have said that the they are not convinced of the government’s commitment or ability to deliver such a scheme. At the end of the day HGV drivers do a lot more than just deliver goods from A to B. They make sure that all the necessary goods, components and equipment are available to each sector from industrial to domestic, wholesale to retail, leisure to healthcare and everything in between.

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

Embrace your new-found independence Covid restrictions and online classes aside, making the move to third-level education can be an anxious time for any young person. Face your fears and dive right into all that’s good about college life, says cognitive behavioural therapist Linda Hamilton LEAVING the comfort of home and learning to fend for yourself, meeting new people, studying new and unfamiliar subjects – starting college can be both exciting and daunting. How can you best navigate the inevitable stresses and strains that come with starting third-level education? A TIME OF CHANGE The transition to college life can be challenging for many students. You may have bemoaned many aspects of secondary school life, but it was familiar. In contrast, starting college is a time of change. Under normal, non-Covid era circumstances, for many it is the first time they will have lived away from home. Meeting deadlines, shopping for food and other essentials, paying the bills, managing your money – you’re in charge now. One way or another, whether you’re based at home or moving closer to the campus, the academic demands are different. Your parents or teachers are not going to be chasing after you if you don’t do the work. Nobody is going to come knocking on your door if you sleep in for lectures or don’t hand in an assignment. It’s perfectly normal, then, to feel nervous or ambivalent right now, but you don’t have to give into those anxious feelings; push through them, get organised and embrace your new independence. Try to avoid the temptation of going home every weekend; doing so is fine initially, but throwing yourself into college life will help you get to know other students and build new relationships. Joining student societies can help in this regard, helping you meet like-minded people who share your interests. Not only that, research shows it can improve your sense of belonging at college and your general well-being, lessening any feelings of homesickness in the process. FACE YOUR FEARS Some of you may feel intimidated at the thought of putting yourself out there, so it’s really important to know that anxiety recedes when we expose ourselves to things we fear. Therapists like myself refer to this as exposure – essentially, it’s the behavioural component of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Avoidance is an unhelpful behaviour that brings short-term relief but leaves you feeling less confident and less able to cope. Don’t try to avoid new or anxiety-inducing situations until you’re ‘ready’. Remember that you gain confidence by doing things before you feel ready, when you’re still nervous. Aim to avoid avoidance and adopt more helpful approach behaviours, whether that be joining a society, making conversation with a new classmate, and so on. BE AWARE OF YOUR ‘THINKING STYLE’ If you’re feeling very anxious about college, it also pays to be aware of your thinking style. Common cognitive errors include catastrophising (‘It will be a complete disaster if I don’t get top marks in this essay’), mind-reading (‘She didn’t say anything but I bet she thinks I’m stupid’), black-and-white thinking (if you frequently use words like ‘definitely’, ‘always’ and ‘totally’, it indicates you look at things as black or white, rather than seeing the shades of grey), and over-generalising (‘my date went terrible, I’ll never meet someone’). Instead of buying into negative automatic thoughts, stand back from them and ask: is this accurate? Is this helpful? SOCIAL ANXIETY Social anxiety is especially common among students, but remember that people aren’t actually paying much attention to you at all; we’re all too busy thinking about ourselves! In one study, college students were asked to to wear a yellow Barry Manilow T-shirt and walk into a room full of strangers (if you don’t know, Manilow is an untrendy 1970s pop star). Students in the study were asked to guess how many people noticed their unfashionable t-shirt. About half thought it would be noticed; in fact, only around 20 per cent noticed it. Regarding study, there will be times when you feel overwhelmed at the thought of some assignment or another. The dread of study and the apparent size of the task can sometimes cause people to procrastinate for hours, but remember that procrastination is a recipe for more dread and more negative feelings. Instead of looking at what seems like a 9

mountain of work in front of you, break it into bite-size pieces. Set achievable study goals and just get stuck in – you will feel better when you do. STRIKE A BALANCE Aim to strike a balance between work and play. Too much emphasis on study and grades can backfire. We all need downtime; if you don’t allow yourself enough time for relationships, exercise and general relaxation, you will likely suffer both psychologically and academically, because general health and well-being are vital to sustained academic performance. Of course, the reverse is also true. Excessive socialising and partying, especially now that we can go out again, brings its own stress and will also hurt you academically. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF Similarly, don’t feel obliged to drink to excess when you are enjoying your new freedom away from home. UK research regarding second- and third-year students found they wished they had been honest and not gone out drinking so much. As the students got to know their new friends better over time, they realised most people didn’t actually want to drink as much as they did – they just assumed everyone wanted to so they responded by drinking more alcohol than they were comfortable with. REACH OUT Finally, aim to build a support network of people that you can reach out to in times of stress. Friends, family members, lecturers and tutors, fellow students, students union representatives, a college counsellor – don’t bottle things up, help is there when you need it. • Linda Hamilton is a cognitive behavioural therapist based in Kinsale. See her regular columns in the Life section of The Southern Star. Contact Linda on: 086-3300807 or go to www.kinsalecbt.com or www.facebook.com/KinsaleCBT

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

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White Rabbit sauces perfect for BBQ weather! Following his graduation from UCC with the Diploma in Speciality Food Production programme Stephen Vaughan very successfully launched his range of BBQ sauces, which he developed for use in the White Rabbit Bar and BBQ, on Cork’s MacCurtain st. Stephen was delighted to be selected as a supplier of these sauces on the Grow With Aldi programme. Like others on the Diploma, Stephen benefitted from the wide range of technical and business topics provided by the course, plus the many opportunities to network with likeminded food entrepreneurs, trainers and support agencies. Applications are now being taken for the next cycle of this Diploma, and substantial funding is available for eligible applicants. The Diploma will start on 12th October 2021 and will run on a part-time basis until May 2022. It may be necessary to deliver part of the Diploma programme using a suite of on-line delivery tools as a result of COVID-19 restrictions. To learn more you can contact Dr Angela Sheehan, a.sheehan@ucc.ie, or by visit www.ucc.ie/en/fitu.

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Recent graduates Norza Daud-Collins and May O’Donovan would both agree that participating in the UCC’s part-time Diploma in Speciality Food Production programme last year made a big difference to the successful development of their food businesses. Norza, owner of Malay Kitchen restaurants in Cork, has developed a range of wonderful sauces and pastes, which can be bought through the shops or website. May’s wide range of fabulous Asian food products can be bought in her store ‘SensAsian Fare’ in Ballincollig, or at the Mahon Point farmer’s market. Both businesses have benefitted from the wide range of technical and business topics provided by the Diploma, plus the many opportunities to network with like-minded food entrepreneurs, trainers and support agencies.

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. DIPLOMA IN SPECIALITY

Applications are now being taken for the next cycle of this Diploma, and substantial funding is available for eligible applicants. The Diploma will start on 12th October 2021 and will run on a part-time basis until May 2022. It may be necessary to deliver part of the Diploma programme using a suite of on-line delivery tools as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.

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To learn more you can contact Dr Angela Sheehan, a.sheehan@ucc.ie, or by visit www.ucc.ie/en/fitu.

It is anticipated that the content will be provided using a blend of face-to-face and on-line delivery. We are now taking applications for UCC’s part-time Diploma in Speciality Food Production.

The fee for the diploma is €2800 and up to 64% of the fee is available for eligible applicants, through a Department The fee for the diploma is €2800 and up to 64% of the fee is of Agriculture, Food and the Marine bursary scheme. available for eligible applicants, through a Department of

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.

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and themore Marine bursary scheme. AnAgriculture, applicationFood form and information can be obtained from Drform Angela Programme Manager, An application and Sheehan, more information can be a.sheehan@ucc.ie by visiting www.ucc.ie/en/fitu. obtained from DrorAngela Sheehan, Programme Manager, a.sheehan@ucc.ie or by visiting www.ucc.ie/en/fitu. The closing date is 18th September.

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

Are you ready? Having the right skills is one thing, but don’t forget to bring honesty, courtesy and just the right amount of confidence along to your job interview

PREPARATION is the first step in the interview process. Make sure you know all you can about the business/company you are applying to work for. Let your interviewers see that you have done your research as this will show your interest in the business as well as demonstrating your initiative. When looking them up, 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 about them, or talk to anyone you know who is/ has worked for that company or in that particular sector, to get a deeper understanding. UNDERSTAND Understand the role you are applying for. Examine each of the points on the job description and make sure that you can give examples of where you have experience/knowledge with regard to these. Also have a think about how you might be able to advance/improve your skills within the role. DETAILS Know your CV. Just because it’s all there in black and white on the printed version or the pdf that you have sent with your application doesn’t mean that you won’t be expected to discuss it in more detail at interview stage. Make sure the CV is upto-date, but also that you are fully aware of every detail that’s on it – parts of it may have been compiled some time ago and you may have forgotten some of the finer details. You could be thrown off track if asked about one of these at your interview. ATTITUDE A positive, friendly attitude goes a long way in impressing an employer, and they will be looking for someone who can get along well with both clients and colleagues. Remember to dress to impress, think positive, and keep talk about previous experience/employers positive. Having a dig at an old boss or colleague while applying for a new job sends a very negative message to a prospective new employer. It also opens up ques-

tions about you and might have the interviewer wondering if you were the problem in the previous scenario. Be an active listener, talk about your strengths in a clear, factual and sincere manner. Body language is also very important – maintain good posture, smile, and speak clearly. DON’T PANIC Interviewers understand that you may be nervous. They’re not out to get you, but they do need to get as clear a picture as possible regarding you and what you have to offer them. If you get thrown by a question, take a breath and if you need a moment to think, take a drink of water. It’s better to compose yourself and give a good answer than to just blurt something out in a panic. If you don’t understand a question, simply ask for it to be rephrased. It shows that you more interested in giving the right answer than trying to bluff your way through. It also shows a human side to you, and indeed that you have the confidence to clarify the situation before proceeding. REHEARSE Although you can never guess the exact questions you will get, there is often a pattern that interviewers will follow. Normally, they will start with questions around your CV and experience. They might ask you to talk about yourself and perhaps to take them through your CV. Again, this is where familiarity with your own CV, while it seems obvious, is very important. They may ask you to give examples of your performance in previous work situations, e.g. where you worked as part of a team on a particular project or where you were able to troubleshoot and subsequently solve a problem. They may delve further and ask, ‘Why do you want this job?’ or ‘Why are you leaving your current role?’ Again, this is where you can have well-prepared, researched answers at the ready. Keep it positive. ‘I was sick of my old job’ doesn’t ring as well as ‘I felt it was time to take the next step in my career.’ 11

HONESTY A common thread throughout your entire application and interview process should be honesty. Don’t falsify information about yourself or make claims with regard to your skills that you simply cannot back up. Not only does this set you up for a fall in a job that you are not qualified for, but it also leaves a very bad taste with an employer when you are eventually found out. As far as an employer is concerned, skills can be taught, honesty cannot. They might like your ‘vibe’ and be willing to hire you without some skills, safe in the understanding that you will learn on the job. They simply will not employ someone they cannot trust. CONFIDENCE Confidence is key to a good interview, but be careful not to come across as arrogant or overly self-assured. Interpersonal skills are important and you need to show that you can listen, take information on board and not assume that you know it all already. WAIT 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. COURTESY Finally, send a follow-up email to the interviewer afterwards. This demonstrates courtesy and your appreciation for having been considered. It also helps to keep you to the forefront of their mind in the midst of a range of other candidates. Use the opportunity to thank them for their time and to again express your enthusiasm for the role. Being courteous and respectful are skills relevant to every role – from counter staff to chief executives and everything in between. You’d be surprised how many people forget this.

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

Stepping up to the challenge President of Munster Technological University, Professor Maggie Cusack, is optimistic for the coming academic year, writes Brian Moore

AS Ireland’s ‘newest’ university, Munster Technological University is preparing for the next term and to welcome both new and returning students. MTU president, Professor Maggie Cusack is looking forward to the prospect, having only taken up her position at the start of the year. She is only the second female appointed to the role of university president in Ireland in over 400 years. ‘This is a very busy but also an exciting time for me as the ambition of starting a technological university and the potential that MTU can deliver for society and the economy is what really attracted me to the position,’ Professor Cusack told The Southern Star’s Careers & Courses magazine recently. MTU is an amalgamation of the Cork Institute of Technology and IT Tralee and as such is a multi-campus technological university, consisting of six campuses in Cork and Kerry. The new university was established on January 1st 2021 with Professor Cusack as its inaugural president. Originally from Scotland, Professor Cusack served as Dean of Natural Sciences at the University of Sterling before taking up her post in Cork. Professor Cusack is just the second women in over 400 years to be appointment as president of a university and she is only too aware of the responsibility and how important her appointment is in terms of a female role model within higher education. ‘There is a phrase that goes “You can’t be what you can’t see”, and with this in mind role models are really important,’ Professor Cusack said. ‘I was speaking to someone from Germany recently and they told me that some German children had asked if the chancellor [of the country] could be a man as they had only ever seen Angela Merkel as chancellor, so I think that just shows how important a role model is.’ However, Professor Cusack also feels that we cannot, now that we have female university presidents, become complacent. ‘We have to continue to strive for diversity in our places of work and our places of study. We always have to ask ourselves when we are making decisions or setting up procedures, is that gender neutral? Are we sure it is, or are we just assuming? Are

we excluding other members of society? We need to ensure that we really and genuinely encourage diversity.’ With her background in science, Professor Cusack is eager to encourage students to embrace STEM subjects. ‘I have always been interested in science and I would encourage student to consider more STEM subjects especially girls who do really well in science in secondary school,’ Professor Cusack said. ‘But again we seem to have this societal message that scientists are men! So, we need to show all students that there is an exciting range of careers available within the STEM subjects.’ While eager to get started Professor Cusack is only too aware of the uniqueness of her appointment given the difficultly for students during the Covid lockdowns and the new reality faced by our society as a whole. ‘Obviously there have been challenges around people working from home but when I moved to Cork we were finally able to 12

meet our colleagues face to face,’ Professor Cusack said. ‘It will be great to welcome the first students to MTU. Our students are going to graduate from a new technological university and we are very much student-focused and we are really focused on the student experience. Our subject choice is very broad as is our overall flexibility in our mode of delivering these choices.’ ‘We also have strong links with industry so all of our students will have a work placement, so our graduates are truly workready. Our students also have incredible opportunities to excel in entrepreneurship and innovation, these are in the DNA of MTU.’ For many MTU students, new or returning for the first time since the COVID lockdown, Professor Cusack wants to ensure that they enjoy and gain from their third level experience. ‘There will be new students arriving to MTU for the very first time as well as students who have spent very little time

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

MTU is a multi-campus university including Cork School of Music (above) and right (from top) MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory, National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy and MYU Crawford College of Art & Design. It also has a campus in Tralee. on campus due to the pandemic. We are extremely mindful of this and we want to ensure that all our students have a good experience,’ Professor Cusack said. ‘There are lots of supports in place, we’ve learned loads when it comes to technology-enhanced learning and from the feedback we have received from our students, while they have missed being on campus, people have benefited and realised that there are advantages when it comes technology-enhanced learning.So, it will be a combination or a blending of the different approaches to learning that will allow students to embrace all that MTU has to offer.’

On what advice the inaugural President of MTU would have for herself at the point when she was setting out on her third-level educational journey, Professor Cusack said she has no regrets but she would tell her ‘first-year self’ to make the most of all that university has to offer. ‘I’d advise a young me to really make the most of all the opportunities provided by university,’ Professor Cusack said. ‘To work hard of course, but to plan my time so that I have time for fun , for socialising, for sport and all the clubs and societies. And I would tell myself that there really is time to fit it all and that the more I put in the more I will get out of my time at university.’

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

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The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

Cork Training Centre to host more free webinars

Future-proof your business and employees with practical training courses, upskilling, reskilling and lifelong learning options owners and employees with the relevant skills required for the modern workforce, with courses such as Digital Marketing, Python, and a range of ICDL digital literacy modules particularly relevant to improving ICT skills resulting in improved business performance and will be suitable to employees in all types of industries. Commenting on the importance of initiatives such as Skills to Advance, Valerie Cowman, Assistant Manager of CTC said: ‘Cork Training Centre is dedicated to providing multiple options for further education. Our overall goal is to help both employers and employees to fulfil specific business and career goals. Our needs analysis service provides employers with insightful information regarding the growth potential of their business, while our wide range of courses opens up doors for individuals in search of new opportunities. ‘Furthermore, we supplement our in-house training with a wide range of courses conducted on contract by private training providers. These courses serve as a rapid response to locally identified skills gaps, so we would encourage employers or business owners with specific training needs to get in touch with us.’ One of the largest of its kind in the country, Cork Training Centre operates under the patronage of Cork Education and Training Board and provides a vast range of training courses across a wide selection of industries. With a range of flexible programmes on offer across many different disciplines, including beauty and healthcare, hospitality and information technology, the facility aims to provide training to meet the needs of the local economy. For more on these free webinars and how the Skills to Advance funding can help your business grow, see – www.corktrainingcentre.ie/skills-to-advance-initiative/.

CORK Training Centre, a campus of Cork Education and Training Board, is set to host a number of free informational webinars providing details on a range of subsidised courses available for employers and employees, allowing both to upskill or reskill in the workplace. During the pandemic, Cork Training Centre launched the Skills to Advance initiative as part of their response to COVID-19 after both employers and employees were forced to assess their skillset and refine working practices. The initiative offers free and subsidised up-skilling and reskilling opportunities for businesses and employees looking to advance in their working lives. The first of Cork Training Centre’s webinars on these subsidised training options, ‘Delivering Bespoke Training for your Business requirements’, took place at 8am on Wednesday 18th August. All remaining webinars can be registered for online through the Cork Training Centre website – www.corktrainingcentre.ie or on Eventbrite (https://bit.ly/CTCSTA1). The webinars are as follows: • Digital Skills Training - Wednesday August 25 at 8am - support for businesses to develop future digital skills • Hospitality Skills Training – Wednesday September 1st at 8am - find out more on Hospitality training and leadership development programmes for Hospitality staff through Skills to Advance Funding. The courses are designed after assessing skills and training that both businesses and employers could benefit from as a result of COVID-19, with the huge numbers of people working from home highlighting the need for training, with an increased focus on digital and technological competence. A number of the subsidised programmes begin in September 2021 and aim to equip business

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

West Cork Campus continues a great tradition of education This respected seat of learning in Skibbereen prides itself on preparing it’s graduates to go directly into the workforce across a wide variety of sectors

Cork City & Skibbereen

to me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was able to put the knowledge and skills that I had learned in college into practice and gain a better understanding of what the work entailed. THE West Cork Campus takes pride in the fact that a wide range of QQI accredited courses at QQI Level 5 (one level 6 programme for 2021/2022) are delivered in a student-focused and supportive learning environment, with highly experienced tutors and excellent resources available to students, including up-todate technology, one-to-one Career Guidance, a Jobs Hub, Jobs Register and a Student Support Service for those with particular educational needs. At all times, strict adherence to Government public health guidelines is guaranteed and every effort is given to maintaining a safe learning environment, for the benefit of staff and students alike. The West Cork Campus, in conjunction with the Cork City Campus – Cork College of Commerce, continuously engages in the development of new and the modification of existing programmes. Driven by demand for graduates by local employers, the college maintains a close relationship with local businesses and service providers through the Work Experience placements that is included in all courses & in the direct recruitment of college graduates. The college has extensive and very valuable progression links to UCC, CIT etc as well as great employment opportunities arising out of the QQI qualification. Further Education courses are for everyone, post-leaving cert students, mature students 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! There are a number of new programmes on offer this September including: Business Administration with Online Solutions (Level 5) – a revamped version of our very popular eBusiness course, which includes Digital Marketing & new ICDL certification in addition to the QQI Award.

I completed the Healthcare course in the West Cork Campus and I really enjoyed my time there. Everyone was very welcoming and helpful. This course can open up so many doors for you and can be extremely rewarding.

Although my time in the college was limited with the challenging times of Covid-19 and the restrictions, the teachers went above and beyond with helping us with online learning. They had exceptional knowledge of the Healthcare sector. I’m currently looking for employment in the Healthcare sector and looking forward to getting a chance to gain further work experience.

Creative Innovation & Digital Media (Level 5), If you are interested in working in the Louise Hurley, Work experience was very beneficial fast-moving environment of innovation Level 5 Healthcare and product promotion, as part of a marketing or development team, then this Advanced Psychosocial Awareness Training (Level 6) – an is the course for you. Learn all about how opportunity for those who hold Level 5 Awards in Early to tailor and design marketing strategies to promote companies Childhood, Healthcare or Humanities – who would like to further and their brands – creating an appeal to target markets. Use their study & gain experience in an Intellectual Disability or other your creativity to design captive campaigns that will ensure the setting. successful promotion of products and services. For further information on all courses: www.westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie. Early Learning & Care (Level 5) – the new updated Award that For prospectus and further information contact 028 21644, email is a two-year programme with progression to Level 6 in the 2nd westcorkcampus@ccoc.ie or Máire O’Sullivan (Coordinator) year – maintaining the Level 5 Award for those who want to opt maireosullivan@ccoc.ie out after one year. 16

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

WEST CORK CAMPUS TESTIMONIALS ... urse I level 5 Childcare co I completed the QQ t Cork es W e, erc ge of Comm with the Cork Colle curse in d de ee cc 21 and su Campus in May 20 ion. let thin weeks of comp ing employment wi e th ng rti ned when sta I was initially concer dy and find the time to stu uld wo I course, how from ts as I was emerging work on assignmen of er th stay at home mo rk, ten years of being a wo e th th wi up only kept two. However, I not se ur co the challenge. The I thoroughly enjoyed able and joy en t bu e siv en int itself was itself was rdinator ing. The course co-o immensely reward s willay alw s wa ry er yle-P and tutor Monica Bo knowlr He encouragement. ing to give help and ctical pra a th bo general from edge of childcare in nt ide ev s wa e nc wealth of experie r He le. ab alu inv s e wa and academic stanc teaching practice. ily da r he ut ho ug thro by Covid allenges brought on fantastic also. The ch s d Maire an wa t ar or ye pp e su th l of ica The techn the latter part for e lin on dy rious stu va to rt us to help so restrictions forced the phone of email of d en e th at s ay O’Sullivan was alw e occasion. ed on more than on technical issues I fac kened my desire of Commerce reawa ge lle Co lving rk Co in se ing in the ever-evo The childcare cour possess when work to tilled ty ins ali se qu ur ary co e ss ce Th . to learn, a ne e tools to do so th th wi me ed vid ars d pro early ye childcare sector an rk on a career as an in my ability to emba th whom a e wi nc de se ur nfi co co a is th me in oup of women on gr t ea gr a mmon goal t co me a o h working on educator. I als s established throug wa ie would have I er . rad ult ma res a ca sense of g friendships as tin las in ve ha ll wi I interested in working of completion. I know is course to anyone th ing nd me om rec no hesitation in ation. Majella Cahalane early childcare educ

My experience at the Cork College of Commerce (West Cork Campus) was very positive. The teachers were friendly and supportive and the course gave me the opportunity to adapt to the QQI framework of progression and figure out which area I wanted to train further in. The environment is so positive and supportive and I would recommend it for anyone thinking of taking a leap and starting their journey of further study or new employment. They will be glad they did. I definitely am! I have been offered by college place to study Social Care in MTU. I am delighted!

Emma O’Donovan , Level 5 Psychology & Social Studies

I studied Hairdressing at the West Cork Campus. It wa s an absolute pleasure from sta rt to finish. I knew from the moment I stepped foot in the colleg e that I was going to love it there and I was right. The profes sionalism throughout the whole college is second to none. Máire, the college coordin ator is an absolute gem and leaves no stones unturned. She wa s always there to lend a helping han d and to guide us through. Caroline, my hairdressing teacher wa s outstanding. She is full of energy and positivity. I felt so confident during the year knowing Caroline wa s with us every step of the way. She truly is amazing. I also completed Retail Sel ling with Johanne and Cus Service with Elizabeth. Th tomer ese are two of the nicest lad ies you could meet and the couldn’t have been more y supportive or helpful throug hout the year. Overall, my experience in the West Cor k Campus was fantastic and I would highly recommend anyone interested in pursui to ng any course that interes ts them!

Early Learning & Ca

Katie Connolly, Level 5 Hairdressing

QQI DAY COURSES COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 2021

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Thomas Curran Regional Manager - Teagasc Cork West Keith Kennedy Principal Clonakilty Agricultural College

West Cork Campus of the Cork College of Commerce 17

MAKE A NEW START GAIN NEW SKILLS OR UPDATE EXISTING ONES COURSES RELEVANT TO LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER LINKS SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT LOCAL TRANSPORT LINKS FOR STUDENTS PATH TO FURTHER STUDY OR THAT IDEAL JOB @westcorkcampus

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

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Bandon Grammar School Co-Educational Boarding and Day

Return to School Schedule 2021 Founded 1642

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

Monday August 30th Return to school for 5th Years. Induction 8.50am - 12.30pm

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

The complete Boarding and Day Pupil Educational Experience Welcome to the First Year boys and girls of 2021 and best wishes to all staff and students eagerly resuming schooling in August Congratulations and Best wishes to the resilient and hugely talented Sixth Year of 2021

Tuesday August 31st Return to school for 1st Years. Induction 8.50am- 12.30pm Wednesday September 1st Return to school for 6th Year & Applied LC students 8.50am- 12.30pm. Induction for 1st Year students (continued) 8.50am- 12.30pm.

Wondering about a second level school for your children? Taking inquiries now for 2022 & 2023 At BGS we offer a broad, stimulating programme to help each pupil discover and reach full potential in a caring environment. Excellent academic support and outcomes make for confident, happy, flourishing young people. 17 University Scholars in 2019 and 2020, and BT Young Scientist Winner 2021. Award winning bespoke ICT system and extensive expertise in combining on site off site I.T. based blended learning.

Thursday September 2nd Return to school for 2nd and 3rd Years (full day). Normal timetable for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th & 6th Year students. Friday September 3rd Return to school for TY students (full day). Normal timetable for all students.

Visit our website www.bandongrammar.ie and follow up by arranging a visit once schools reopen. Website: www.bandongrammar.ie • Email: office@bgsmail.ie • Phone: 023-8841713 Fax:023-8844404 • Twitter: @bandongrammar

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

HOOL C S O T BACK

Aughadown Community Playschool

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ENROLMENT NOW OPEN FOR SEPTEMBER 2021 Qualified and experienced staff. Large, safe fenced outdoor area. Large, airy colourful playroom. A wide range of age appropriate toys and equipment. ECCE places available . Please contact us to arrange an appointment for enrolling your child or to visit us. Funding secured for new materials & equipment and to develop our outdoor area.

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Homework

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... how much help is too much? YOUR child has come back from a day at school, sat down at the kitchen table, taken out their books, started their homework and you can clearly see that they are under pressure. Should you step in and help or do you leave them to figure it out? Or do you let your child go back to the a and let them sort it? Primary schools have a homework policy which sets out how much homework each class should get. Infant classes get around ten minutes homework, first and second class get about 20 minutes, third and fourth get about 40 minutes, while fifth and sixth get about fifty minutes. This does not include the time it takes to take everything out of their bag and get set up, this time should just be about completing the work. Once they hit the time limit, they should stop, even if they are not finished.

Homework should be done somewhere like at the kitchen table where a parent is available nearby. The earlier the homework is done after school, the better it is, as the child will be fresher and will have more energy to do it. All children learn differently and some really need their parent to help, but it is important that the parent doesn’t take over and do the homework for them as this defeats the purpose of the exercise. It will be difficult for teachers to know if children are struggling with something if the parent helps too much. It is advisable, however, for parents to supervise and go through the homework with their children during or after the session, as well as listening to them read to help identify any literacy issues. If the parent does notice that their child is struggling to get

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the work done in the prescribed time, or they are seeing the same mistakes coming up time and time again, it is important to talk to the teacher as open and regular communication will ensure that the child is being given the best chance to succeed. This goes for older children too. As they move through the years in secondary school, time spent on homework, study and revision becomes longer as the curriculum advances. This too needs to be monitored at home to ensure the child is doing enough but equally, that they are not over-doing it. The best way a parent can help with homework is to create a comfortable environment for their child to work in, keep an eye on the time spent doing it, check over the work while it’s being done, as well as after, and consult regularly with the teacher about any concerns.

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

L SCHOO O T K C BA

Try getting the balance right In order to lead healthy, productive lives, young people need to have a carefully balanced blend of school work, extra-curricular activities and quality rest and relaxation

THE next school year is drawing near and hopefully with Covid-19 restrictions largely behind us children will be getting into a new, more or less normal routine of school, homework and after-school activities. Whether they are starting junior infants in primary school or going into sixth year in secondary school, it is important to strike a balance between all of these, while also ensuring that they get enough rest and sleep. So, how can this balance be achieved? HOMEWORK Schools set out homework policies and the amount given out is determined by what class the child is in. In primary school, infants get about ten minutes worth of homework and that increases to about 50 minutes as they move to fifth and sixth class. Primary teachers emphasise that children should only spend the prescribed amount of time on their work and put it away when that time is up. If they don’t manage to finish their homework in the time set out, parents are encouraged to talk to teachers about what can be done. As children progress into secondary school, homework, study and revision become an essential element of performing well in the various subjects. The current exam cycles are structured in a way that the child must put in the work, both at school and at home, in order to succeed. At home, they need to go over what they learned in school in order to grasp a better understanding of

it. This can take many hours and parents are encouraged to actively monitor their input into homework because, while children are encouraged to put in the work, at the same time they are not encouraged to consume their whole evening and weekend with it. They should leave enough time to participate in other things, such as after-school activities. AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES After-school activities are crucial to children and teens in terms of discovering who they are; likes, dislikes, personality traits, skills, strengths; thereby figuring out what they are good at, and thereby what they want to do with their lives. This is also true for younger children as participation in activities is an essential element of development. It leads to new-found friendships, the learning of various skills, growth 20

of confidence and the development of cognitive, physical and emotional wellbeing. Although some children may be talented in an array of fields, it is important that they don’t end up spreading themselves too thin, in an attempt to be good at everything. The fear would be that other areas such as school and homework would suffer as a result. So rather than being involved in everything, focus on one or two activities and let the child make progress at, and enjoy those. WHAT ABOUT THE REST? So, after spending the day at school, working on homework and attending an after-school activity, what is left to be done? The final essential element – rest and sleep. Children need to rest, and rest does not just mean sleep, it also

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses

means downtime, away from the activities that they are involved in. It can mean listening to music, reading a book, having a nice conversation or meditating and stretching. Basically, turning off their minds from pressure and stresses. Children do need long periods of uninterrupted sleep for optimal growth and development. Primary school children should be aiming to get nine to eleven hours per night, with not less than seven and not more than 12. Sleep needs remain just as vital to health and well-being for older children. Teenagers are recommended to get eight to ten hours, with not less than seven and not more than 11. As children get older, it can be harder to manage their rest. The cause of poorly-rested young people is often not a schedule that is too busy, but rather a misuse of their time and more than ever nowadays, technology. If they have access to a device such as a phone or laptop, they can be up at all hours chatting to others or playing games and often take pride in admitting to staying up to

the early hours of the morning. As a result, they are coming into school tired and irritable and have a lack of concentration in the classroom. Set boundaries regarding technology use. PLAN FOR SUCCESS The key is to getting the balance right between school, homework, activities, rest and sleep time for younger children is where

parents actively plan the child’s schedule to ensure that they have adequate time for all the elements. Older children should be better able to manage their own time, but this will only happen with planning and support from both home and school. With some hard work, and dedication to making it work, the balance can be achieved, and the child can realise their potential, not only academically but holistically too.

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Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

HOOL C S O T BACK

Your child’s education is an expensive business From stationery to student accommodation, technology to transport, folders to fees and everything in between, giving your kids a good start in life comes with a hefty price tag IT’S not only kids who reel at the thought of going back to school after the summer holidays – parents are equally, if not more in dread of it due to the increasing expense associated with it. A 2021 survey by savings and investment experts Zurich found that the cost of sending one child to primary school is €1,305 – significantly higher than figures in a similar survey just three years ago when the same cost was estimated at just under €1,000. The same survey revealed that the estimated cost of sending a child to secondary school in 2021 is a whopping €2,214. Neither figure is inconsiderable, particularly in multi-child families and it’s hardly surprising that budgeting and spreading the expense over several pay cheques is now the norm in most households. The big ticket items are books, uniforms and lunches; but adding to these costs all the time are the costs are transport; afterschool care; sports gear; the controversial voluntary contribution; extracurricular activities and school trips. The competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) offers this advice for parents on how best to face these costs UNIFORMS Schools are now encouraged to allow a number of businesses to supply their school uniform so that you can shop around for the best value and quality. Another option is for schools to allow students to wear generic clothing, which can be bought in large

shops and department stores, and to allow parents to attach the school crest themselves. If your child’s school has not yet taken this approach, we would encourage you to bring this up with the school principal or board of management.

The big ticket items are books, uniforms and lunches; but adding to these costs all the time are the costs are transport; after-school care; sports gear; the controversial voluntary contribution; extracurricular activities and school trips. Ask your school or other parents to see if there is a secondhand uniform sale planned. Some websites or local groups on social media sites also sell second-hand uniforms. Keep an eye out for special promotions in shops on school 22

uniforms, such as 3-for-2 offers on items such as shirts and polo shirts. If you can, buy a few packs in different sizes so that you can keep using them when your child has grown. Try to shop around for generic items of clothing like grey skirts or trousers. The larger chain stores can be good for these, but remember that stocks don’t last when demand is high so it’s a good idea to buy early rather than waiting until just before the start of the new school year. Some stores discount uniforms at the end of September or October, so you could buy a few pieces for your child for the following year in a larger size. Watch out for shoe sales during the year. If you can, buy a good quality rucksack that will last for a couple of years. This will reduce cost in the long run as you won’t have to change it every year. BOOKS Consider buying second-hand schoolbooks. Just make sure to check whether your school specifies a particular edition of a particular textbook. Some schoolbook websites also sell second-hand books. If you have to buy brand new books, make sure you shop around. You can compare prices in bookshops and online. Exchange books with other parents to save money. When buying books, check if the retailer is also offering free book covering as this will save you time and money. Many schools operate book-lending schemes. You may be able to sell your child’s old books if they are in

The Southern Star | Autumn 2021 | Careers & Courses good condition. Teach your children to take care of their books as this makes it easier to sell on the books if your child is finished with them. If they are underlining words ask them to underline in pencil instead of pen so that this can be rubbed out before selling the book on. If you have a social media profile, you could post your child’s booklist to see if your friends have any of the books secondhand. STATIONERY Buying stationery in bulk can be cheaper than buying items one-by-one. There are usually good offers at back-to-school time, such as bundles of copybooks, pens and notebooks, so, if you can afford it, it might be worth buying stocks to keep your kids going for the year. If not, stationery items could be bought week-by-week with your weekly shop. LUNCHES Packed lunches prepared at home are not only cheaper than shop-bought lunches – they are often more nutritious. A little time spent planning your family’s weekday lunch menu before

you do the shopping can reduce food wastage and save you money. Bulk-buy food. This can be expensive initially but will last for several days, and many foods can also be frozen. However, do make sure to check shelf life of what you buy. Buy foods that are in season as they are normally cheaper. TRANSPORT The cost of fuel can really add up if you drive your children in and out to school every day. If you know anyone in your area who has children attending the same school, it might be worth suggesting that you carpool, although with Covid-19 still a concern it is best to check with the latest government guidelines with regard to pods etc before making any arrangement in this regard. If you live near the school, consider cycling or walking – it will save you money and is also good exercise! Check if your child is eligible to get the bus to school. It could be a more cost-effective option and most children enjoy travelling to school with their friends.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Ask family and friends if they can pass on any equipment or supplies that they don’t need. Children often change their minds about a sport or hobby, so ask if they can attend the first class for free before paying the full fee. Hold off on buying expensive gear and equipment until you know if your child is going to stick with the activity. If the fee is for the full year, ask if you can spread the costs over a few months rather than paying it all up-front. Start planning ahead If you can afford to, it’s a good idea to start to plan ahead and put a little money aside for next year’s back-to-school costs. Keep a note of what you spent this year, so you’ll know approximately how much you’ll need the following year. Saving even a small amount regularly can make a big difference. For example, saving €5 each week will add up to €260 for back-to-school costs next year.

PRIMARY

A further breakdown of the survey carried out by Zurich (www.zurich.ie) reveals that of the estimated €1,305 that’s required to send a child to primary school in Ireland in 2021, on average … €123 goes on clothing €312 is spent on lunches €176 goes on books €79 on school supplies (stationery etc) €54 goes to contributions to parents’ associations €111 is given in voluntary contributions €112 goes on shoes €149 goes on transport costs The lifetime cost of sending a child to primary school is estimated to be €10,440

SECONDARY

SOME SUPPORTS .... Specific help for those on social welfare payments: Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance This helps meet the costs of uniforms and footwear for students going to school. To be eligible for the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance, the parent or guardian must be getting certain social welfare benefits or payments for training, employment schemes or adult education and total household income must be below a certain amount. Check with your local social welfare department or Citizens’ Information Centre. School books Funding under the Free Education Scheme is available to State primary and post-primary schools to help with the cost of school books. Funding comes from the Department of Education and Skills and the scheme is administered in each school by the school principal.

The scheme is mainly aimed at pupils from low-income families and families experiencing financial hardship. It can be used to set up a book rental scheme within the school or help individual students buy books. The Department of Education prefers schools to use it to set up book rental schemes as this helps more students from low-income families. Information about the operation of the scheme in your child’s school is available from the school principal. To apply for assistance you must contact the principal of your child’s school. The principal has total discretion in deciding which students are most in need. Exemption from examination fees Students whose parent or guardian holds a medical card do not have to pay the examination fees for Junior or Leaving Certificate. 23

Of the estimated €2,214 spent on sending a child to secondary school in Ireland in 2021, on average … €524 goes on grinds €321 on lunches €252 on transport €77 on parents’ association contributions €113 on school supplies €131 on voluntary contributions €131 on shoes €202 on clothing €290 on books. The lifetime cost of sending a child to secondary school is estimated to be €13,284.

THIRD-LEVEL

According to the Zurich survey, third level education costs make for grim reading for most parents: €8,375 on student accommodation or €5,931 for rented accommodation €4,025 on college fees €1,809 on parents’ financial support €344 on transport. Depending on student accommodation or rented accommodation costs, the estimated lifetime cost of sending a child to third level education in 2021 is between €48,436 and €58,212.

Careers & Courses | Autumn 2021 | The Southern Star

Bantry & Clonakilty Credit Unions Whether it’s textbooks, or laptops, rent or course fees, we can help you arrange flexible finance with ease!

BANTRY CREDIT UNION Phone: (027) 50535 www.bantrycu.ie CLONAKILTY CREDIT UNION Phone: (023) 88 33842 www.clonakiltycreditunion.ie IMAGINE MORE 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. Bantry Credit Union Limited and Clonakilty Credit Union Limited are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.