exploration experience -- in April of last year. Deputy principal Mrs. Gloria Martin said exposing students to career choices at a young age is important for it gives them insight as to what they should take in high school. "I always felt this was something that should be done for primary students,'' she said, adding that 25 primary seven students participated in the programme. A committee of parents spearheaded by Mrs. Marine Edness Eddy together with Mrs.

Martin prepared the groundwork for the career exploration project. Small groups of students spent one morning during the week at a variety of different businesses throughout the Island, said Mrs. Martin. "Each day of career week, four groups of six to nine students visited nine different companies to learn about career opportunities.'' The students visited the Bank of N.T.

Butterfield and Son, Aberfeldy Nurseries, the Registrar of Companies, the Attorney General's Chambers, Ettrick Animal Hospital, Cable & Wireless, The Royal Gazette , the Hamilton Princess Hotel and Centre Re Insurance. Gilbert Institute provided each company with evaluation sheets, which they filled out for every student. And most children scored very high, noted Mrs. Martin.

"Several firms were surprised at the calibre of questions that the children asked. They also said many of the students were well versed in subjects and very keen to learn.'' The children were required to fill out reports on every company they visited. As well, each group chose one business and made-up a play, where they reenacted highlights of their morning in that company. "The parents who helped out with the programme were invited to come and watch the play. "The whole experience was a success,'' said Mrs. Martin, adding that the students became motivated and better enlightened on the topic of career and job opportunities for the future. As well, the business partners felt it was a worthwhile exercise for the students -- they look forward to having more children back in the future, she said. To highlight the week's activities, professional imaging consultant Ms Virginia Jackson of Washington D.C., visited the school. She instructed the students on how to develop good interviewing skills and present positive attitudes to prospective employers.

Gilbert Institute plans to host another career education week later this year.

programme.