This site should be used springboard to further your career research.
Trust no single source. All sources should be checked and re-checked. YOU are responsible for your own career research.
The Careers Noticeboard should continue to be checked for Career Info.
Career Guidance Interviews will be posted here and on the Careers Noticeboard.
You will find a variety of information divided up in the sections on the right such as Career Info for Parents, Parent Info, Junior Cert Students and Parents, 1st year students and parents, Open Days etc.
If you struggle to find an item of information, just enter ‘BGS careers (item)’ into Google Search e.g. ‘BGS Careers Engineering’
This site should be used as a springboard to further research.
Trust no single source. All sources should be checked and re-checked.
Regards,
Mr. Kearney
The Student Grant Scheme for the 2013/14 academic year has been approved and has been published last week with the Student Support Regulations for 2013/14.
The online application system for student grants went live on 17th May, 2013. As in preceding years, the reckonable income limits set out in Schedule 1, the qualifying conditions, including those for the special rates of grant set out in Schedule 2 and the rates of grant set out in Schedule 3 apply to all students whose grants are being renewed in the 2013/14 academic year and who were assessed under a prior scheme or under the Student Grant Scheme 2011 or 2012.
The existing grant awarding authorities will continue to process renewal applications for students to whom they have already awarded grants until such time as those students have completed their current courses. The existing grant awarding authorities will also continue to pay these renewal students in the normal manner subject to confirmation and verification of attendance.
It is important to note the Budget 2013 reduction of 3% in the income thresholds for all student grants in the 2013 grant scheme. The measure will apply to both new and renewal students.
To facilitate applicants who may be suffering from visual/hearing impairments, the scheme can be made available in different formats on request from the Department’s Higher Education – Equity of Access Section.
The scheme and regulations are currently being translated into Irish and the Irish version will be posted on thewww.studentfinance.ie website shortly.
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell universities and colleges about your suitability for the course(s) that you hope to study. You need to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment, and above all, ensure that you stand out from the crowd.
The personal statement can be different to application essays or personal statements from other countries, so please read the guidance in this section before completing the statement.
Statement timeline - for colour printers (PDF) / Statement timeline - for mono printers/copiers (PDF)
Look at our timeline to see when you need to start researching and writing your personal statement.
Statement mind map - for colour printers (PDF) / Statement mind map - for mono printers/copiers (PDF)
Our mind map summarises what you need to know about the personal statement, including preparation, presentation and what to include.
Personal statement worksheet (PDF)
This worksheet is designed to help you think about information you could include in your personal statement. We’ve included space for you to write down any thoughts you have as you work through it. If you save the document you can write directly into it.
Some course tutors find personal statements crucial when making decisions, whereas others might not put as much emphasis on them. Since you do not know who will be looking at your statement, the safest thing is to do a good job. In many cases, applicants are not interviewed, so this may be your only chance to make the case for you to be offered a place.
The Assistant Registrar for Undergraduate Admissions from University of Warwick says:
‘For highly competitive courses which attract applications from many more candidates than there are places, comparing all applicants’ personal statements helps us to identify the most committed and suitable candidates.’
If you’re offered a conditional place and narrowly miss the required grades for the course, the university is likely to look at your personal statement again to see if your interests and experience demonstrate any extra skills that could help you on the course. So it can make a difference later in the application process as well.
Remember that the person reading your statement is an expert in your chosen area of interest so they will want to know the reasons why you have chosen the subject.
We put all applications through similarity detection tests, which identify statements that have been copied from another source. Don’t be tempted to copy another person’s application materials, or download your personal statement from a website. There could be serious consequences to using other people’s work. If any part of your personal statement appears to have been copied, we will inform all the universities and colleges that you have applied to. They will then take the action they consider to be appropriate. We will also contact you by email. Click on the similarity detection link to find out more.
Q My daughter is spending a lot of time thinking about changing her CAO course choice preferences, as she says she cannot concentrate properly on the exams until she has sorted that out. I am advising her to concentrate on her study now, and to wait until the exams are over before she uses the change of mind facility, as she will have a better idea of what points she may have got. Which of us is right?
A You are right to tell her that she will have time to use the CAO change- of-mind facility after the exams are over – the facility remains open until July 1.
However, I worry a little when you say that: “She will have a better idea of what points she may have got”, as it suggests that she should use her predicted points scores
to determine her preferences.
It is always worth reminding applicants that they should not change their mind on the basis of how they believe they have done in their examinations, because they are
often poor judges of their own performance.
They should place their course choices in order of genuine preference, and leave room for safety nets – in other words, some less competitive course choices (that they
would still enjoy doing) after their more competitive higher preferences.
If they allow a predicted points score to determine their choices, they may rule themselves out of courses for which they may actually get the points.
CAO encourages students to apply for courses in order of genuine preference regardless of points, and this is the only advice that one can follow, because if you fail to
apply for a course because you think you won’t get the points, and then you actually achieve those points, you will not be offered the place.
However, realistically speaking, if an applicant puts down 10 course choices, all of which usually require points in excess of, say, 500 points, they may actually get no
offers at all.
So applicants should be sure to spread their options, cover all bases, as it were. Aim for the stars, by all means, but have the safety nets in place.
It is understandable that your daughter, like most other students, would like to have her CAO choices sorted out.
Even if she uses the change- of-mind facility now, and then sees how she feels about those course preferences after the exams are over, she may still use the change of
mind facility again up to July 1.
Another applicant explained: “I have done a lot of research and there is a huge amount of information on the internet through the CAO, Qualifax, all the universities and
other college websites, but sometimes I end up feeling more confused than ever.”
A It is true that one can end up with a feeling of information overload, although it is great that information can be accessed so easily and speedily through all the
sources that are now available.
But information about courses is only half of the equation.
Your own understanding of your interests and your abilities (helped by the insights of those who know you, like your parents, guidance counsellor and teachers), will
help you narrow down choices still further.
It is vital to like the subjects on the course you are planning to study.
It is as important to consider how you will get through the next four or so years of a college course, as to think about what job you might get at the end of a course that
you did not enjoy. If you do not like the course, you may never graduate.
The Defence Forces are looking for candidates with leadership potential, commitment, a sense of duty and a high level of physical fitness, in order to fill essential appointments in the Army (to include the Equitation School), Naval Service and the Air Corps.
Applications are invited from school leavers and graduates who will be not less than 18 years of age and under 28 years of age on 07 October 2013.
Applications for the 2013 Officer Cadet Competition are only being accepted online and only from candidates who meet the minimum educational and other essential qualifying criteria.
Closing Date is Sunday 26th May 2013
Read more Information about the Competition
A Medical Officer is a specialist Officer who practices medicine within the Defence Forces both at home and overseas. Medical practice focuses on health protection and education, primary care and environmental medicine. The role comes with very real physical and mental challenges.
Read more about a Career as a Medical Officer
The Defence Forces are are now accepting applications for positions as Direct Entry Medical Officers.
Start your Online Application (New Window)
The Defence Forces are looking for candidates with leadership potential, commitment, a sense of duty and a high level of physical fitness, in order to fill essential appointments in the Army (to include the Equitation School), Naval Service and the Air Corps.
Applications are invited from school leavers and graduates who will be not less than 18 years of age and under 28 years of age on 07 October 2013 to fill the following positions in the Defence Forces:
Army Officers (Line)
As an Officer in the Army you will be trained to excel in many things, but the key focus of all training is to develop your character and leadership skills. This is a career that presents challenges you will not find elsewhere. All Army Officers are required to serve in any of the Defence Forces installations countrywide as well as frequently on Peace Support Operations overseas
Read more about Army Cadetships
Army Officers (Equitation)
As an Equitation Officer you will be posted to the Defence Forces Equitation School in McKee Barracks, Dublin where you will train to represent Ireland and the Defence Forces at both National and International horse riding events.
Read more about Army Equitation School
Naval Service Officers
As an Officer in the Naval Service you will be trained to operate both ashore and afloat as either an Operations Officer, an Engineering Officer or an Electrical Engineering Officer. All Naval Service Officers are required to serve in the Naval Base, Haulbowline, Co. Cork, on state ships and in Defence Forces Headquarters.
Read More about Naval Service Cadetships
Air Corps Officers (Pilot)
An Air Corps Flight Officer is a military aviator who is qualified to fly the numerous types of aircraft operated by the Defence Forces. The role comes with very real physical and mental challenges, with Officers being expected to demonstrate leadership qualities.
Read More about Air Corps Cadetships
Applications for the 2013 Officer Cadet Competition are only being accepted online and only from candidates who meet the minimum educational and other essential qualifying criteria.
Download Terms and Conditions (PDF 169 Kb)
Please read the terms and conditions carefully before you make your online application. Please have a valid email address for further correspondence.
Remember the closing date is Sunday 26th of May 2013.
Start your Online Application (New Window)
Smart foods for studying
22 May 2013
The Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute offers the following nutrition tips for exam students:
* Don’t skip meals, especially breakfast.
* At breakfast ensure you choose foods that are high in fibre and give your body a slow, steady release of glucose – for example, wholemeal bread or porridge.
* Avoid any kind of weight loss diets during this time as many of these are lacking in essential nutrients and can hit concentration.
* Take a healthy snack with you to eat either during or before the exam.
* Try to eat a good lunch, and avoid the local chipper. Fatty foods will leave you feeling full and sluggish.
* Don’t overdo it on caffeine, but do have other drinks such as fruit juice, herbal tea and water.
Irish Independent
This link provides some information on the transition from Primary School to Secondary School sharing some views from those who have gone through it all before. It breaks down the relevant issues that may occur for your child.
Regards
Mr. B Kearney
Aer Lingus is excited to announce the introduction of its new Cadet Pilot Training Programme for 2013.
This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals to train and qualify as a commercial pilot, and could be the starting point for a rewarding career with Aer Lingus.
As part of our commitment to this Cadet Pilot Programme, Aer Lingus will fund a substantial portion of the costs and provide a first class mentored programme throughout the duration of the course. This will involve regular contact with a specially designated member of the Aer Lingus Flight Operations team who will oversee your progress and provide advice and guidance throughout the course.
As a prospective Aer Lingus trainee pilot you should have a technical aptitude and display maturity, commitment, flexibility, motivation and a willingness to accept responsibility. Excellent communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills are essential qualities with a good appreciation of our customers’ expectations.
Working as part of a team on our modern aircraft can be challenging and physically demanding. For those who thrive on responsibility and embrace professionalism, this career is both rewarding and fulfilling.
To qualify to fly a commercial aircraft, like the Airbus 320, you have to undergo a challenging and intensive training programme.
The Course
The initial training course will lead to the granting of an Airline Transport Pilots Licence with Multi Engine Instrument Rating (ATPL/ME/IR). The course is very intensive and involves a significant amount of additional study. Time off from the course is limited to set times during the programme. These will be outlined at a later stage in the recruitment process. Successful applicants can expect the course to begin late 2013.
The Duration
The training programme takes 14 months to complete and consists of a number of phases. Following successful completion of these elements, Multi Crew training is conducted in the classroom and simulator. This course takes 2 weeks and signals the end of your initial training.
Training Location
A number of training locations are being considered. The final choice will be advised to you later in the recruitment process. Opportunities for travel home during the course will be limited.
Training Costs
The approximate cost of the initial training programme is €100,000. If you are successful in your application you will be required to fund approximately 25% of this training cost during the course. Upon successful completion of the course, a further 25% approximately will be recovered by Aer Lingus by means of reduced salary over a number of years. The full details of this will be outlined at a later stage in the recruitment process.
Post Qualification from Flight Training
When you have qualified from flight school you will be scheduled for the Airbus 320 type training course. The timing of these courses will be subject to pilot crewing demands. The course comprises computer based training and simulator exercises, to ensure you have a high standard of proficiency to qualify you to fly the aircraft.
Bases
We currently have pilots located at a number of bases in Ireland and the UK. When qualified, you may be offered a position at any one of these locations.
Career Prospects
Aer Lingus currently operates an all Airbus fleet of aircraft. You will start your career on the A320 flying across Europe to our many destinations.
There may be opportunities to move on to our longhaul fleet operating on our transatlantic network. There are also opportunities to work on projects within Flight Operations or to become an Instructor as your experience develops.
In Aer Lingus, we encourage development and progression in everyone’s career. Ultimately as an Aer Lingus pilot you will have the opportunity to achieve promotion to Captain.
We hope this information has been helpful.
Please use this link if you wish to apply to the Aer Lingus Cadet Pilot Training Programme.
The Naval Service is a component of the Defence Forces and is the States principal sea going agency. The Naval Base is located in Haulbowline, Co Cork with roles that include:
Maritime Defence
Fishery Protection
Search and Rescue
Drug Interdiction
Support to Irish Industry Abroad
The Naval Service offers exciting careers for young people with a wide variety of courses and training. Further information on the Naval Service can be found on our website www.navy.ie
The Naval Service Cadetship Competition has been launched online at www.military.ie. Applications can now be submitted through this website. The closing date for applications is Sunday the 26th of May.
Naval Service Cadets are future Officers of the Naval Service. Officers are the managers, decision makers and future leaders of the Defence forces. Cadet training is approximately 2 years. It is part of a 5 year programme working towards either a Level 8 Honours Degree in Nautical Science or a Level 8 Honours Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
There are three different types of Cadetships:
1. Operations Branch – Officers of the Operations Branch are responsible for the efficient running of the ship. Responsibilities include Bridge Watchkeeping, Weapons and Communications.
2. Engineering Branch – Officers of the Engineering Branch are responsible for everything that keeps a ship afloat, moving and habitable.
3. Electrical Branch – Officers of the Electrical Branch are responsible for the technical specification, selection, installation overhaul and maintenance for all electrical, electronic, communications, ordnance equipment and systems fitted to Naval Service ships.
The basic qualification requirement for Operations/Engineering Branch Cadetships is a minimum of a Grade C3 in 3 Higher level papers and a grade D3 in 3 Ordinary/Higher level papers, in a single sitting of the Leaving Certificate Examination. Candidates must pass English, Irish (exemptions apply) and Maths (for Marine Engineering Cadets candidates must achieve a minimum of a grade C3 in Higher Level).
Electrical Cadet candidates must hold a Level 8 degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering.
For more information on Terms and Conditions including graduate entry requirements please see www.military.ie.
The lower age limit for Cadets is 18 years of age and the upper age limit is under 28 years of age.
Application forms are now available online at www.military.ie
The selection process will take place over the coming months in different phases. Successful Cadets will commence training in September 2013.
Further information on Cadetship qualification and entry criteria can be found at www.navy.ie. Queries can be directed to navy.manpower@defenceforces.ie
Only 6th year students are to fill out this form
Use the format below to complete a basic, one page cover letter.
48 St Anne’s Grove
Blackrock
Co Cork
Ph: 086- 2345987
29th April 2013
To whom it may concern,
I am applying for a place on the course of my chosen field of interest, _________________.
I am currently a student in Bandon Grammar School. I would like a place on this course because …
(What skills and personal qualities do you have that may benefit you for the course?)
(What experience do you have that may benefit you for the course?)
Yours sincerely,