Hamilton and Weir open third meeting of Careers Advisory Forum

Economy Minister Simon Hamilton and Education Minister Peter Weir today opened the third meeting of the Careers Advisory Forum.

The Forum comprises of representatives from business, education and other key stakeholders and provides independent advice to both Departments on current and future careers provision in the context of the refreshed Careers Strategy 2015-2020.

Economy Minister, Simon Hamilton MLA said: “The careers system plays a pivotal role in ensuring individuals, especially our young people, are encouraged to realise their full potential and follow their chosen career path.  It is critically important that we support individuals to attain the skills and qualifications needed by the current and future labour markets and those which will lead to continued economic growth and our long term prosperity.

“With broad representation from business, education and other key stakeholder groups, the Careers Advisory Forum is perfectly placed to provide expert, independent advice on a range of key issues. The combined expertise of this Forum will help inform both my Department and the Department of Education on how careers advice and provision can support the needs of students, job seekers and the wider economy in the future.”

Education Minister, Peter Weir said: “I want our education system to provide the opportunities for every young person to develop their talents and enhance their life chances. Careers education has a very important role to play in achieving this vision; that is why it is part of the statutory curriculum. It is about equipping young people to manage their own careers in a fast changing world. It helps them to become good careers decision-makers and to gain an understanding of the world of work. 

“A quality careers system has the potential to address the needs of the economy as well as ensuring that more of our young people transition smoothly from education to employment, and remain in employment. I am confident that this forum can make an important contribution to further enhancing and improving our careers system, and ultimately the life chances of our young people.”  

Notes to editors: 

1. A copy of the Terms of Reference and Forum membership is available from the DfE website.

2. Careers education is the responsibility of the Department of Education and delivered by schools, while responsibility for careers guidance, which is an all-age service, sits with the Department for the Economy. Careers education enables learners to develop their knowledge, and understanding of job opportunities, to manage their career development, and make relevant informed choices, ensuring successful transition into education, training or employment. Careers guidance builds on this knowledge and understanding, providing impartial and personalised advice, taking into account aspirations and ability, helping people to make the right career choices to fulfil their potential.

3. All media queries should be directed to the DFE Press Office on 028 90529604. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974383 and your call will be returned.

4. Follow us on Twitter @Economy_NI

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