Kilkenny students take part in Coillte World of Work experience

Students at a Kilkenny Secondary School have been introduced to the diverse careers available in the area of forestry thanks to the World of Work programme.

Coillte, Ireland’s semi-state forestry company, has partnered with Duiske College, Graignamanagh, for a third year running through the Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) Business Action on Education Initiative.
Duiske College is one of four schools that Coillte has partnered with across the country.

Through the BITCI World of Work programme, Coillte has collaborated with a class of 14 second year students at the school, including international students from Spain taking part this year.

Over a series of visits throughout the school year, students were introduced to the working world of Coillte and the diverse roles within the forestry sector.

A highlight of the programme for the students was a tour of the Medite plant in Clonmel, which is a subsidiary of Coillte.
Medite produces MDF panel boards for the construction industry, made from wood from Coillte forests.

Forestry has always been part of Duiske College, with Brandon Hill Forest visible from the school.
Throughout the programme, students learned of the multiple benefits of forests for climate, nature, wood and people and their local community.

The wrap up event for this year’s programme took place in Coillte’s Avondale Forest Park in Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, where students visited the Beyond the Trees experience. They also met students from other schools who have partnered with Coillte.
“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Coillte and BITCI,” said Kevin Cheasty, teacher at Duiske College.

“The programme provides students with an opportunity to learn about forestry, how wood is used and the careers that are available in the sector. Overall, it creates a great sense of community, which we feel strongly about in our school.”
Ken Sweeney, Regional Manager, Coillte, said: “We hope this initiative will encourage students to consider forestry as a career in the future.

“We look forward to continuing this partnership and working with Duiske College in the coming years ahead.”

Tomas Sercovich, CEO Business in the Community Ireland said the organisation is grateful for Coillte’s continued involvement in delivering the World of Work programme. “This programme gives 2nd year students real world insights into different career options, provides soft skills training and encourages them to complete their education to maximise their employment opportunities.

“Gaining insights into the career options within the forestry industry together with learning about the importance of nature and biodiversity is really valuable to these students.”