"Preparing for Success" sets out proposals for the future development of Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance for individuals of all ages.
Commenting at the Careers Resource Centre in Belfast, Education Minister Caitríona Ruane said:
"Is í an fhís atá agam mar Aire Oideachais ná a chinntiú go mbíonn comhdheis ag gach duine óg a gcumas a bhaint amach. Is mian liom go mbeidh daoine óga ag baint suilt as a gcuid ama ar an scoil agus iad ag fás ina ndaoine fásta atá sásta ról iomlán a ghlacadh ina bpobail féin. Sin an fáth go bhfuil sé ríthábhachtach go dtugaimid comhairle do dhaoine óga faoi ghairmeacha beatha.
"My vision as Education Minister is to ensure that every young person has equal opportunity to reach his or her potential. I want to see young people enjoying their time at school and moving into adult life ready to play their full part in their communities and this is why it is vital that we provide careers advice.
“The introduction of the Entitlement Framework means young people have access to a wider range of subject pathways. As a result young people now have more choices than ever before and need support and assistance in making key decisions. This strategy will help develop high quality careers advice and information.
“Both my Department and the Department for Employment and Learning are committed to working together to ensure that everyone, not only those at school, are able to access dynamic relevant careers advice. This will help people to make the decisions that are right for them and put them on the career pathway they wish to follow.
Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, added: "It is important to emphasise that this is an all age strategy and it is particularly relevant at this time of economic uncertainty. This is a difficult time for many people but it can also present an opportunity to take a longer term view and to consider and prepare for alternative career options. This strategy aims to support young people and adults in making career decisions at the various transition points in their lives."
Sir Reg also emphasised his commitment to ensuring appropriate provision of careers advice and guidance for young people and adults who are vulnerable to social exclusion. He said: "While our two departments are committed to the aim and objectives of this strategy and clearly have responsibility for implementation, we are reliant on many partners to ensure effective delivery. We look forward to working together to develop effective career decision makers and achieving the ultimate goal of increased and appropriate participation in education, training and employment."
Notes to Editors:
- The need for an independent all age strategy for Careers Education, Info, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) is highlighted in both the Revised Curriculum and Entitlement Framework Programme (DE) and Success through Skills - The Skills Strategy for NI (DEL).
- For further information please contact Leander Harding at the Department of Education Press Office, telephone 028 9127 9755 or email leander.harding@deni.gov.uk or Gareth Bannon at the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office, telephone 028 9025 7872 or email gareth.bannon@delni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
