Stronger links between schools and professional community needed, statutory guidance states

RA Now

Schools should be connecting better with their local employer and professional community in order to improve careers guidance under statutory guidance announced by the Department for Education.

The revised guidance – Careers guidance and inspiration in schools – forms part of plans to reform the education and skills systems to better support young people for the world of work, and will be effective from September 2014.

A range of different interventions for schools and pupils are recommended in the guidance, including mentoring and coaching, speakers from the world of work, careers fairs and networking events, help with skills such as CV writing and job interviews and workplace visits and placements.

The guidance also suggests that a clear focus is needed from education professionals on the enterprise skills, experience and qualifications that employers want. But also employers should themselves demonstrate what opportunities are available, what skills are needed and where pupils should be prepared for a level of competition in gaining access to courses or employment.

“The best people to inspire and guide young people are those in good careers themselves,” Matthew Hancock, skills and enterprise minister, wrote in a statement. “This guidance strengthens the requirements for schools to build links with employers to inspire and mentor pupils, helping them develop high aspirations and fulfil their potential.”

“The guidance sets a clear framework for the provision of advice and guidance, giving schools clarity on the required approach to ensure that expectations are set high, and all young people can access the support they need to understand and navigate an ambitious range of career options,” he added.