Frequently Asked Questions

Can an employer employ people who have their National Insurance Number, even if they are 15 or do they have to wait until they are 16?

It is possible to work at 15 but there are some restrictions.  If you have a look at the following website you will see what these are:-

www.direct.gov.uk/youngpeople

 

What qualifications do I need to become a hoilday rep?

There are no set entry requirements, but applicants should be literate and numerate and have a good general education.  Most Employers, however, prefer applicants to have some GCSEs grades A-C particularly in English, maths, geography and foreign languages.
Regardless of qualifications, a good working knowledge of one or more foreign languages is normally required.  Especially useful are Spanish, Italian, French, Greek or Portuguese.  It is also useful to have previously lived and/or worked abroad.
Employers usually prefer reps to be at least 20 years of age.  The also prefer previous experience of working with people and specialist knowledge is required for specialist holidays e.g Winter Sports representatives must be able to ski to an advanced level.
It is also possible to study suitable full-time courses at many colleges and universities through the U.K.  Courses include:-
NVQs Levels 2,3 and 4 in Travel Services
BTEC Higher National Cert or Diploma in Tourism or Travel and Tourism
Degrees in Travel and Tourism,Business Studies or Finance with travel and tourism options.

I don't know what job is right for me!

You could make an appointment with your local Careers Adviser who will provide you with information, advice and guidance to help you make the right choices. Careers Advisers are located in JobCentres, Jobs and Benefits Offices and Careers Offices throughout Northern Ireland. To get details of a Careers Adviser in your area go to Finding a Careers Office.

What qualifications do you need to be a firefighter? 

A good general education is required and GCSE grades particularly in English, maths and science are useful. Applicants must be aged 18 years or over. For more information contact:-  

How do I apply for the Northern Ireland Civil Service?

Posts start at GCSE Level with a minimum requirement of 2 GCSEs at Grade C or above. All candidates will sit a one and a half hour test. For further information please refer to the Explore Careers Notes section on this website and have a look at the articles on Administrative Assistant and Administrative Officer.

How can I become a television presenter?

Broadcasting is a career in which experience plays a significant role and you can begin this at school, college or university through involvement in campus or hospital radio.
Although training and education in subjects such as media and communication or video techniques are useful experience, they do not offer an assured route into the industry.  Relevant work experience and communication skills may be just as important.  Many successful announcers and presenters have previously been journalists who work their way up as their abilities are recognised.
Ideally, it is best to combine some form of work experience with studying for suitable entry qualifications.  For trainees in radio or TV these include:-
At 16 - 5 GCSEs (A-C grades)
At 17 - 5 GCSEs (A-C grades) and usually a relevant 'A' Level or Intermediate GNVQ in Media Studies.
BTEC National and Higher National Diplomas in Communications and Media Studies.
NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Broadcast Journalism and Production.
NVQ Level 4 in Broadcast Journalism.