Students looked at their options

HANDS-ON help was available for hundreds of students at the Careers Convention at Beau Sejour yesterday. They could find out more about jobs by speaking to 50 employers, many with interactive stands.

St Pierre Park Hotel chefs James Tinus and Craig McKechnie attracted crowds of young people by cooking stir-fries and spring rolls.

Mr Tinus said that the opportunities as a chef were endless.

'Everyone needs to eat and there are a lot of hotels and restaurants in the island. I'm from Canada and I've worked in Australia and New Zealand. There aren't many careers where you can travel the world and work.'

The College of Further Education stand offered information on its chef courses.

The Chamber of Commerce retail group's theme was retailing in action. Member and Fletcher Sports owner Terry Ferbrache said that it wanted a more interactive approach.

'It's to show that retail is not just cash-and-wrap. There are wholly different skills to be used apart from being behind the desk, such as communicating and visual merchandising.'

A window-dressing competition with props from Creasey's and Norman Piette gave students the chance to use their creative skills.

A building stand featuring a construction exhibition gave the opportunity to win a turn at operating a crane outside the Sarnia Hall.

'We've had a phenomenal interest in the exhibition. There are vast opportunities in Guernsey, from apprenticeships in all trade areas through to the new BSc honours in construction, management and architectural technology.

'And there are financial rewards, as people can learn and earn,' said Denis Riddell, head of construction studies at the CFE.

The convention was also for anyone who wanted advice on changing career. Education department personnel manager John Lamb said that several adults had gone to the States Education Council stand for information on options in teaching, including several who were employed in the finance sector.

Since 1994, training routes have been offered locally for those wanting to train as primary school teachers. Mr Lamb said that they were also looking to develop training for secondary school teachers.

'The more home-grown teachers we can produce, the better,' he said.

Law is also a popular option. The island has a record number of advocates - about 110, compared to just six at the start of the last century. 'People are still being taken on, even when the rest of the economy is in a downturn,' said Advocate Lisa Fisher, of Ogier and Le Masurier.

There is also less need to go away to study, with distance-learning law degrees and being able to tailor a qualification for Guernsey here.

Guernsey Careers Service adviser Sarah Stonebridge said employers were very keen to take part in the convention.

'Between employers, the Careers Service and education with work experience and industry awareness week, it makes for better links and support for young people and makes each side more aware of the others' needs.'