Careers advice at Balmoral Show

Patricia Frazer, Careers Manager for Banbridge, Lurgan and Lisburn, explains: “Given the nature of the Balmoral Show, many people attending the show will either be involved in or considering a ‘green’ career. This includes everything from Agriculture, Food and Forestry to Renewable Energy and Wave Power.

“Recent statistics estimate that globally the market for low carbon goods is expected to reach £4.5 trillion by 2015 so a ‘green’ career could be a very viable option. It is extremely important that people considering their career options develop an understanding of the opportunities and the skills and qualifications required for a long-term career in the green sector.

“Some young people attending the Show may be focusing on GCSE options, ‘A’ level subject choice, training, apprenticeship, college or university options. Alternatively, older people may be considering a change of career into the ‘green’ sector. As this year’s Show also happens during Adult Learner’s Week we would also encourage visitors to speak to a careers adviser about the opportunities for further learning, be it an essential skills course or courses at a college or university, and discover the positive impact learning can have on their lives, their families and their community.”

Patricia concluded: “We would urge people of all ages to avail of the services of the Careers Service for free careers information, advice and guidance. You can contact your nearest Careers Office for advice by phoning 0300 200 7820 to speak to a member of staff from the Careers Service. All our careers advisers are professionally qualified and based in Careers Resource Centres, Jobs and Benefit Offices and JobCentres throughout Northern Ireland.”

Professional advisers from the Careers Service will be on hand to offer advice on career choices and opportunities available in the green economy and other sectors in the Balmoral Hall.

Information and support is also available on www.nidirect.gov.uk/ careers.