Madam, - I note with interest at this time of the academic year the stress and turmoil students and parents go through awaiting publication of the CAO offers of places in the various colleges throughout the country. While this process is important and inevitable, there are other options.
Students and parents should seriously consider a career as a craftsperson as first choice and not as a fall-back. The construction industry has been booming in recent years and this is likely to continue. There is a constant shortage of craftspersons, in particular plumbers, carpenters and bricklayers. All of these careers offer very well-paid, steady jobs with the opportunity of promotions and increased earning opportunities.
Second-level schools, parents and students should consider the opportunities available in craft careers after students have completed their Leaving Certificates. - Yours, etc.,
SHAY MURRAN, Head Construction Skills, DIT, Bolton Street, Dublin 8.