Leaving cert students look to their futures at Options careers fair hosted by Pres College, Carlow
Keita Lace, Gabriella Harris, Caitlín McGrath, Nicole Cerrud and Kate Doyle-Hughes from St Leo's College at the Options careers fair at Presentation College, Carlow. Photo: © Michael O'Rourke Photography 2026
PRESENTATION College careers guidance department recently held a careers fair called Options at the school, bringing together universities, further education and apprenticeship providers and employers to highlight the wide range of career paths available to students after they leave school.
Organised by guidance counsellors Tara O’Sullivan and Claire Rothwell with assistance from the parents’ council, the event welcomed students from schools across Carlow including St Mary’s CBS, St Leo’s College, Knockbeg College, Presentation de la Salle, Tyndall College and Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach.
Several of the country’s leading universities and third-level institutions attended to present their prospectuses, while further education and training providers such as Carlow Institute of Further Education and Training (CIFET), Grennan Equestrian Centre and Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board outlined alternative options available to students.
Local employers MSD and NUA also attended, along with Carlow Fire Service, an Garda Síochána and the Irish Defence Forces.
Exhibitors gave presentations, held portfolio clinics and displayed examples of their work giving students plenty of food for thought as they consider their future careers. Students also received a range of free merchandise.
A parents’ hub featuring representatives from Carlow Credit Union, Carlow Regional Youth Service, St Catherine’s Community Services Centre and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) was facilitated by the parents’ council.
Thirteen student ambassadors also helped out and received praise from visitors.
The guidance department thanked everyone who gave presentations, saying their time, energy and expertise were of great assistance to students preparing to enter the world of work or further study.
As part of the collaboration, students from Presentation College will attend similar careers fairs at these schools next month.
