Xplore Your Future

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The "Xplore Your Future" Fingal TY Skills Expo will take place on Tuesday, 15th October 2024 at The Helix DCU. This is the second running of the expo following a very successful inaugural event in 2023. Hosted by Fingal County Council, this free interactive event is designed to help TY students explore lots of future career possibilities and meet with young people already on these career paths. This is a schools-only event, not open to the public.

If you're wondering about your future career, consider this: a skills-based career could be an amazing choice for you.

Why? Well, first off, it's like having a superpower in the job market. You can adapt to new industries and technologies as they come along, which means you won't be left behind.

Plus, it's all about job security. Skills are always in demand, so you'll have more stability. And let's talk money - skills-based jobs often pay well and offer room to climb the career ladder.

But here's the coolest part: you get to make a real impact in your chosen field. And guess what? Many skills-based jobs let you learn on the job, which means you're earning while you're learning. So, think about it – a skills-based career might just be your ticket to an exciting, fulfilling future, and the chance to grow every step of the way!

See what our Students and Teachers had to say about Xplore Your Future 2023:

Xplore Your Future 2023 - Student Testimonials

Xplore Your Future 2023 - Teacher Testimonials

Remember, the opportunities in skills are truly endless, and the pathways are more accessible than ever. Don't hesitate to reach out to your teachers, explore the things that ignite your interest, and ask about the pathways to those careers. You can also check out the incredible resources available on this webpage. Your future is what you make it, and with the right skills, the possibilities are limitless. So, go on, seize those opportunities, and shape a future that's uniquely yours!

 

 

Xplore The Sector Competition

Fingal County Council is delighted to announce the launch of our new “Xplore The Sector” Skills Competition which is part of the “Xplore Your Future” TY Students Skills Expo. For more information, click here.

List of Exhibitors:

Joining An Garda Síochána will change your life, and the lives of others. From the moment you join, it will be a mix of challenges, rewards, new skills and new friends.

Your personal impact on people and the community will give you a sense of achievement like nothing else.

Being a Garda is a tough job. But it’s a job worth doing.



 


Garda Reserve: The Garda Reserve is a volunteer force drawn from individuals who seek to give back to their communities, who perform duty alongside full time Garda members, and work to keep people safe. 

Reserve Gardaí are a key asset to An Garda Síochána as they provide support during policing operations, enhance ties with local communities, and bring with them a wide range of skills and talents.  

From its inception under the 2005 Garda Síochána Act 1706 Reserve Gardaí have graduated from the Garda College with the first Garda Reserve trainees graduating in December 2006. The Garda Reserve has 332 active members.

While on duty Reserve Gardaí are granted policing powers by the Garda Commissioner. Under the supervision and support of full time Garda members help to prevent crimes and to provide greater reassurance to the community. 

Duties include Community Policing, Station Duties, Roads Policing and more.

For more information, visit: www.garda.ie

An Garda Siochana

 

Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Apprenticeship- As a heavy vehicle mechanic apprentice, you will be trained to the very highest technical standards and will learn how to maintain all the systems in modern public service vehicles, including training on day-to-day repairs and preventative maintenance tasks, vehicle diagnostics/fault finding with some of the most advanced systems of its kind in place. Your apprenticeship comprises seven phases, three off-the-job as designated by SOLAS and four on-the job that take place with Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus.

 

For more information, visit: Bus Éireann/Dublin Bus

Bus Eireann

 

Level 8, 3-4 year courses in the areas of:

  • Business
  • Marketing, Accounting
  • Biology, Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Sports
  • Nursing
  • Psychology
  • Maths
  • Education (Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary teaching)
  • Engineering
  • Computing
  • Languages
  • Media
  • Communications
  • Music
  • Law

For more information, click here.

 

DCU

 

  • Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeship - The programme covers Engineering plus an introduction to Avionics, Aircraft Structures, Jet Engines and Systems. On successful completion of this programme, apprentices will be in a position to apply for their B1 or B2 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Licence by the Irish Aviation Authority. Those successful will also be in a position to apply for their B1 or B2 Engineering licence.
  • Toolmaking Apprenticeship - A Toolmaker is a skilled worker who produces and maintains precision tools used in the production of the metal, plastic and other materials of all shapes and sizes. The work of a toolmaker involves interpreting drawings and technical data to machine and assemble jigs, fixtures, moulding tools, dies and punches. Care and attention to detail and high precision are the hallmark of toolmaking. 

For more information, click here.

 

Dublin Aerospace

 

Operating since 2011, our highly experienced team of trainers will come to your school. We provide all equipment and materials needed to give your students a unique experience.



During this very practical experience, students will learn via our commercial espresso machines the hands-on skills needed to work in the hospitality sector.

Students not only learn a hand craft but also important soft skills such as effective communication, dealing with multiple orders and self awareness. These skills ultimately empower students and allow them to get a job, often their first job. This experience is not only fun but allows students to gain much needed self confidence.

 

For more information, click here.

 

Dublin Barista School

 

For more information, click here.

 

Recruitment campaigns are advertised here, our social media platforms (X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Bluesky) @dubfirebrigade.

 

Dublin Fire Brigade

 

BA (Hons) Music and Performing Technologies - The BA (Hons) in Music and Performance Technologies aims to provide musicians with a broad range of musical experience and knowledge necessary to succeed in the contemporary music industry, in Ireland and beyond. These include both musical skills (including performance, theory, history, composition, and improvisation) and the technological and business skills necessary for 21st century musicians (such as music production, digital collaboration, creative coding, and entrepreneurship). The aim in bringing together these two areas is to produce graduates who are competent and confident in the diverse range of knowledge and competencies required by contemporary music creators, educators, and performers.

For more information, click here.

 


BA Theatre and Film Practice

This course is perfect for students who know they want to work in areas of Theatre and Film but have not yet decided on which sector to specialise in. The course offers potential performing arts students the ability to develop all the skills necessary not only in voice, acting and movement, but also in film studies, film production and postproduction resulting in a well-rounded and diversly skilled graduate.

Uniquely, this course will also give students the opportunity to gain core skills in technical theatre practice, including set design and construction, sound and lighting design, costume design and stage management skills. All practical classes are led by lecturers who have professional industry experience.

For more information, click here.

 


BA Musical Theatre

This course provides essential and comprehensive training in the three main principles of musical theatre, namely acting, singing and dancing, which are supported by academic modules which explore further understanding of the industry. Students also participate in all important performance practice and projects. The modules have been designed to have a clear progression through each of the three years culminating in musical theatre productions in year three. 

Particular attention is given to training students for the professional world. This includes preparation for auditions, creating audition portfolios and meeting with directors and producers.

For more information, click here.

 


BA (Hons) Film and Television Production

This course encompasses everything from pre-production planning and scriptwriting to filming, editing, and postproduction. Students will learn to harness creativity, innovation, and collaboration, and the practical aspects of mounting a production, such as budgeting, location scouting, casting, production design, filming, and post-production. Students will learn in our state-of-the-art TV studio and be part of multiple practical projects to put their skills into action. Students can specialise in areas such as Documentary Film Production and Drama Production for Film and Television in their final year project.

Students benefit from the guidance of industry experts, participate in the Annual John Moore Film Award competition, and secure employment in renowned companies like the BBC and Universal. The course is housed in the state-of-the-art Carroll's building on the DkIT Campus, providing students with an ideal environment to create exceptional work. In Year 3, students embark on an industry work placement that will enhance their skills and broaden their professional network.

The students and graduates of this course have gained recognition and success at prestigious film festivals and industry awards. Their outstanding work has been acknowledged at events including the Irish Film and Television Awards, Los Angeles Cinematography Awards, Dublin International Film Festival, and Royal Television Society Awards. 

For more information, click here.

 


BA / BA (Hons) Sound Design

The BA (Hons) in Sound Design aims to provide learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies in sound design, programming, and implementation, relevant to the audio-visual industry related to games and interactive media. 

By balancing sound design and implementation skill development alongside teamwork and entrepreneurial skills, this course will also encourage students to develop skills in research, critical reflection, and communication. The course is designed to develop creative and professional attitudes which will enable engagement and collaboration.

The BA (Hons) in Sound Design ethos encourages learners to develop entrepreneurial skills, behaviours and attitudes and learners are challenged to consider sound design, sound for games and sound production for interactive media issues from a variety of cultural perspectives.

For more information, click here.

 


BA / BA (Hons) Audio Development

This course provides students with a holistic education, covering technical, creative, and theoretical aspects of digital audio work. Students develop strong technical skills, exploring areas like audio signal processing, synthesis, sound design, and music information retrieval, while also gaining proficiency in programming languages like C++, Python, and JavaScript.

The curriculum focuses on Digital Signal Processing (DSP), where students build a solid foundation and apply DSP principles to create various audio effects. Integration of audio in multimedia frameworks, including video and interactive media, prepares students for diverse applications. The course encompasses music technology, encouraging the creation of virtual instruments, music software, and electronic music. Acoustic principles are integrated, allowing students to optimize recording environments and address acoustic challenges. Real-time systems, human-computer interaction principles, and ethical considerations in audio production are emphasized.

Research and innovation are integral, fostering exploration and contribution to advancements in audio computing. Aligned with industry trends, this course ensures graduates are well-prepared for careers in audio engineering, sound design, and software development. Practical experiences and hands-on projects cultivate creativity and problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to enter the dynamic audio technology industry with a comprehensive knowledge base and technical proficiency. 

For more information, click here.

 


BA / BA (Hons) Audio and Music Production - This course is aimed at producing professionals for the recording industry capable of assuming key creative roles in the process of analysing and developing the creative intentions of the client to a commercial conclusion. The course involves the utilisation of advanced technology, sophisticated equipment, and a deep understanding of musicality and acoustics, to capture, enhance, and manipulate audio elements, ensuring high-quality recordings and seamless mixing.

For more information, click here.

 


BA / BA (Hons) Creative Media

The BA (Hons) in Creative Media places a strong emphasis on creativity, collaboration, design and innovation, and developing students’ practical skills to a high standard. Students are also encouraged to develop the theoretical skills necessary to critically analyse key media issues, both in terms of its technological manifestation and its social impact. Key to this development is a six-week work placement in 3rd year, allowing students to gain experience in the workplace before completing their final year on the course. In 3rd year students also work on a major group project where students work on an interactive media product

In 4th Year students focus on their chosen speciality area to create a substantial body of work in this area preparing them for a professional career in this field. Students are also offered the opportunity to realise, develop and showcase their creative ideas and skills to the public and prospective employers in the form of a final-year project exhibited at the annual end-of-year Creative Media Degree Show, Fís Graduate Showcase. Students also carry out a large piece of research which culminates in a dissertation.

For more information, click here.

 


BA (Hons) Drama and Performance

This one-year add-on honours Drama and Performance degree aims to facilitate the development of students’ academic, intellectual and personal development, to enable them to function as professionals within indigenous and international Arts organisations and pursue academic research interests in the field of Drama.

The course aims to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills and competencies in the area of drama and theatre studies making them suitable for employment in careers as Creative Arts professionals who develop, lead and sustain the industry on a national and international basis.

For more information, click here

 

Dundalk Institute of Technology - Department of Creative Arts, Media and Music

 

Ever dreamed of being your own boss? Have you a clever, creative idea and want to start your own business? There’s a range of supports available to young entrepreneurs and inventors and your Local Enterprise Office is your first port of call. Check out the support they can offer you as you start on your enterprising journey. Click here for more information. 

Fingal Local Enterprise Office

 

ICT Associate Level 6 Apprenticeship in Cybersecurity - FIT's Cybersecurity Apprenticeship is a two year 'earn as you learn' programme, at Level 6 on the NFQ. Over two years, Cybersecurity Apprentices are provided with on the job experience, during placement in an appointed tech company and off the job training. As a Cybersecurity Apprentice, you will learn about how to protect systems from cybersecurity risks, threats and vulnerabilities. Modules covered include CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA Network +, CompTIA Security +, CompTIA Security Analyst, CompTIA Penetration Tester, GDPR, Personal & Professional Development, Project Management and Effective Management in Business. To apply for this course, you must be 18+ at time of application; all ages welcome thereafter. You must have a Leaving Certificate (5 passes at Ordinary Level including Maths and English or equivalent). Candidates with other qualifications should refer to the FIT website for details of recognition of prior learning. All candidates must also meet Aptitude Assessments administered by FIT. You must also be a motivated tech enthusiast with a good attitude to work in the ICT sector. 

For more information, click here.

 


ICT Associate Level 6 Apprenticeship in Software Development - FIT's Software Development Apprenticeship is a two year 'earn as you learn' programme, at Level 6 on the NFQ. Over two years, Software Development Apprentices are provided with on the job experience, during placement in an appointed tech company and off the job training. As a Software Development Apprentice, you will learn how to write, test and modify code. Modules in this course include Systems Analysis & Design, Object Oriented Programming, Event Driven Programming Solutions, Procedural Programming, Software Applications Testing, Web Development and Website Software, Software Design Fundamentals, Personal and Professional Development, Project Management and Effective Communication in Business. To apply for this course, you must be 18+ at time of application; all ages welcome thereafter. You must have a Leaving Certificate (5 passes at Ordinary Level including Maths and English or equivalent). Candidates with other qualifications should refer to the FIT website for details of recognition of prior learning. All candidates must also meet Aptitude Assessments administered by FIT. You must also be a motivated tech enthusiast with a good attitude to work in the ICT sector.

For more information, click here.

 


ICT Associate Level 6 Apprenticeship in Computer Networking


FIT's Computer Networking Apprenticeship is a two year 'earn as you learn' programme, at Level 6 on the NFQ. Over two years, Computer Networking Apprentices are provided with on the job experience, during placement in an appointed tech company and off the job training. As a Computer Networking Apprentice, you will learn how to design, install, maintain and support communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. Modules include Network Operating Systems, Networking Technologies, Internet Server Management, IT Virtualisation, Implementing an ICT Systems Security Policy, Design and Plan for an Internal Network Cabling Infrastructure, ICT Systems and Networks Management, Personal and Professional Development, Project Management and Effective Communication in Business. To apply for this course, you must be 18+ at time of application; all ages welcome thereafter. You must have a Leaving Certificate (5 passes at Ordinary Level including Maths and English or equivalent). Candidates with other qualifications should refer to the FIT website for details of recognition of prior learning. All candidates must also meet Aptitude Assessments administered by FIT. You must also be a motivated tech enthusiast with a good attitude to work in the ICT sector.

For more information, click here.

 

Fit

 

These industry-led programmes offer great opportunities for both candidates and businesses. Employers can expand their talent pipeline and candidates can begin a exciting career in the lab.

We currently have two programmes on offer.  The level 6 Higher Certificate in Laboratory Technician (2 years) and the level 7 Ordinary Bachelors degree in Laboratory Analyst (3 years)

The apprentice is required to attend college 2 days per week and on the job learning with one of our sponsoring companies the remaining 3 days inside the academic year.  Outside of the academic year, apprentices are required to attend on the job learning 5 days per week.

The apprentices is paid by the company for both the on and off the job aspects of the programme and the government pays for the training.

For more information, click here.

 

Ibec

 

National Commis Chef Apprenticeship Programme - 

  • Two year apprenticeship delivered by Crumlin College, Colaiste Ide Finglas and ETBs nationwide.
  • Apprentice is employed on a full-time basis whilst attending Training Centre weekly.
  • No apprentice fees. Qualification based on continuous assessment - no final exams.
  • All apprentices receive a full set of knives, chef whites, safety shoes, use of a laptop and all course material free of charge. 
  • Applicants require a QQI Level 4 qualification ( Leaving Cert Applied or Pass Leaving Cert ) OR
  • equivalent from abroad OR 3 years prior trade related experience.
  • QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts awarded upon completion

For more information, click here.

 

Irish Hotels Federation

 

Apprenticeships in:

  • Fitter MAMF
  • Electrician
  • OEM
  • HGV

For more information, click here.

Irish Rail

 

  • Passport to Production: Passport to Production run by the National Talent Academies is a Screen Ireland flagship programme which is now validated by the Technological University Dublin as a level 6 QQI 10 ECTS credit programme. Passport to Production aims to drive wider representation in the creative screen industry and Screen Ireland, through the established crew academies, is eager to encourage new entrants from diverse and underrepresented groups to apply. This 6-day programme is one of the most beneficial stepping-stones to access the film & TV industry, and forms the basis of the new entrant’s journey to working in the industry. For more information, click here.

 

  • First Credit Short Film Scheme: If you are a Writer, Director, or Producer yet to make your mark in the live action or animation industry, this new initiative from the NTA Film & TV and NTA Animation aims to support you in creating a short film and gaining your first professional credit as a Writer, Director, or Producer. The First Credit Short Film Scheme is targeted at new filmmakers, with the backing of a €7,000 fund that will provide the filmmaking team with carefully tailored mentoring, training, and workshops delivered by experienced industry professionals over the course of a year.  Not only will this scheme help you get a short film made, it is heavily focused on skills development and supporting you in kickstarting and establishing a career in film and TV. For more information, click here.

 

  • Animation: The National Talent Academy for Animation provides support and opportunities for new and existing Talent through a range of courses and programmes nationwide, creating pathways for career progression to ensure that Ireland consolidates its position as one of the best places in the world to produce animated content. For more information, click here.

National Talent Academies

 

  • Recruitment Executive Apprenticeship is a Level 8 Honours degree programme (BA Hons in Recruitment Practice) for those who wish to embark on a career in recruitment. The apprenticeship is open to school leavers, career changers, returning to work, etc.
  • IFS Associate Apprenticeship is a Level 6 Higher Certificate programme (Higher Certificate in International Financial Services) for those who wish to start an entry level career in IFS. Options are available to progress to a part-time Level 8 Honours degree, with exemption from the first stage. The apprenticeship is open to school leavers, career changers, returning to work, etc.
  • IFS Specialist Apprenticeship is a Level 8 Higher Diploma programme (Higher Diploma in Financial Services Analytics) for those with a Level 8 degree, who wish to develop a career in IFS. The apprenticeship is open to career changers, returning to work, etc.

For more information, click here.

NCI

 

The OEM Engineering Apprenticeship is a three-year Level 6 programme where you learn a range of skills such as engineering drawing electrical and electronic technology OEM practices, mechatronics , analytical & problem solving and Industrial robotics.

The programme consists of on-the-job learning which takes place within the company and 16-weeks annually attending college at either the Monaghan Institute or Raheen Training Centre in Limerick.



The OEM Engineering Apprenticeship was designed by industry, to meet current needs within the OEM sector and to help futureproof local and national companies going forward in terms of both human skills and technical skills.

The programme is suitable for those currently employed in OEM companies, school leavers, career switchers and mature applicants wishing to pursue a career as a qualified OEM Engineering Technician. 



On completion of this programme, the learner receives a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in OEM Engineering and will be qualified as an OEM Engineering Technician, a widely sought-after skillset in the manufacturing, installation, servicing and commissioning sectors, both nationally and globally.

 

For more information, click here

OEM

 

  • Hospitality Management: In this dynamic course, you’ll learn how to be a competent manager in any functional area in a hospitality business, whether in a top hotel or resort, or to open your own restaurant, hotel or bar. The industry-focused curriculum is taught through a range of practical and academic learning styles to maximise the learning experience. You’ll learn all the business skills you need to equip you for management while getting plenty of opportunities to put your skills into practice.
  • BA Tourism Management: This course, which combines academic knowledge with field trips, site visits, and practical work experience, will equip you to work as a manager in the tourism, travel and related sectors, both nationally and internationally. The course is delivered in a supportive, flexible learning environment aimed at empowering learners to achieve their personal and professional potential.
  • BA International Tourism and Hospitality Management (Level 7) (Tallaght): Do you seek an exciting career in the international hospitality and tourism industry? This course can turn you into a business-ready graduate, with special knowledge and skills in tourism, food and beverage, sales and marketing, innovation, human resources, communication and IT. And you’ll acquire real-world experience thanks to the six month professional internship at home or abroad. This course was developed in partnership with industry representative associations and leading practitioners from the food, leisure and business tourism sectors. You’ll study a range of business and cultural topics and develop essential business skills in tourism, sales and marketing, enterprise, human resources, IT, teamwork and problem-solving.
  • BA International Hospitality and Tourism Management (Level 8) (Tallaght): Do you seek an exciting career in the international hospitality and tourism industry? This course can turn you into a business-ready graduate, with special knowledge and skills in tourism, sales and marketing entrepreneurship, human resources, communication and IT. And you will acquire real-world experience thanks to the six-month professional internship at home or abroad. This course was developed in partnership with industry representative associations and leading practitioners from the food, leisure and business tourism sectors. It’s a fully contemporary, practical curriculum focused on three aspects of international best practice: operations, communications and management. You will study a range of business and cultural topics and develop essential business skills in tourism, sales and marketing, food and beverage, entrepreneurship, human resources, IT, teamwork and problem-solving.
  • BSc International Hospitality Management: Hospitality is a growing, diverse and exciting industry that provides an abundance of employment opportunities at home and elsewhere around the globe. The demand for hospitality graduates is growing each year in the global hotel, leisure, industrial, business, health and education sectors. This course will give you the management, technological and operational skills you need to work in the international hospitality industry. Specific modules enhance the international focus of the course and the international experience of the student.
  • BSc Tourism & Digital Marketing: Tourism is one of the world’s largest industries worldwide and is forecasted to be one of the fastest-growing global sectors, with exciting career opportunities. This course focuses broadly on business and management subjects and more specifically on digital tourism marketing, to reflect the changing needs of the industry in light of technological advances.
  • BSc Event Management: In this four-year course, you’ll acquire practical and theoretical skills in all aspects of event management. You’ll become knowledgeable in areas such as event planning and design, marketing, sponsorship, staging and health and safety. You’ll be equipped with the knowledge, understanding and professional management skills you need. As well as event-specific subjects such as Event Industry Studies and Event Planning and Production, you’ll also follow a broad business course with subjects such as Management, Marketing, Finance and Law. European languages are increasingly important in the world of work.
  • BSc Sports and Leisure Management: The B.Sc. in Sports and Leisure Management takes a student-centred approach to learning. Students engage with the Sports, Leisure and associated sectors through innovative teaching and actively learning by doing.  Real-life problem solving takes place through engagement with community and industry, and collaborative and reflective learning will include using case studies, guest lectures from experts in their field, and site visits to a range of Sports and Leisure facilities. 
  • BSc Tourism Management - 1 Year Add On: This one year course provides an opportunity for students who have successfully completed the BA Ordinary degree in Tourism Management to attain an honours degree in a further single year of study. It runs in conjunction with the BSc (Honours) in Hospitality Management.   
  • BSc Hospitality Management - 1 Year Add-On: This one-year course provides an opportunity for students who have successfully completed the BA Ordinary degree in Hospitality Management to attain an honours degree in a further single year of studies. It runs in conjunction with the BSc (Honours) in Tourism Management. The offering of the BSc (Honours) in Hospitality Management course further develops the learners’ key skills, their strategic ability and their knowledge of the hospitality management discipline.
  • Higher Diploma in Hospitality Management - 1 Year Conversion Add-On: This one-year (12-months) conversion programme provides an opportunity for students who have successfully completed an ordinary (3-year) degree (Level 7 – Irish National Framework of Qualifications) or honours (4-year) degree (Level 8 – Irish National Framework of Qualifications) in a different discipline (for example: Business, Science or Engineering) to attain an honours degree (level 8 – NFQ) in hospitality management equivalent in a further single year of studies.

For more information, click here.

 

Technological University Dublin

 

**Please note, there will be more exhibitors added to this list daily.

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