Ministers launch Careers Action Plan
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Education Minister Paul Givan have today launched a three-year Careers Action Plan.
The Action Plan follows a programme of collaborative work by the Department for the Economy and the Department of Education and sets out a range of practical measures that will grow and improve careers services for people of all ages across Northern Ireland.
Minister Archibald said: “This Action Plan is the first of its kind in more than a decade and will reform delivery of careers educational services so that even more people can benefit, and from a younger age.
“Actions include introducing careers education from primary school age, strengthening provision for learners with special educational needs, and developing a new digital careers portal. Delivering this Plan will make it easier for everyone – young people and adults – to get the support they need to plan their futures and access good jobs.”
The Action Plan will see providers of careers services both in and outside of school settings work more closely, share resources and knowledge, embrace new technologies, drive professionalism, and collaborate to benefit users of all ages.
Education Minister Paul Givan said: “I want to ensure that careers-related learning starts early in the curriculum and there is meaningful engagement with the world of work for all our learners, particularly those who face barriers to opportunity.
“The increased choice of qualifications and pathways available to young people means that it is more important than ever for young people to receive high quality careers education, information, advice and guidance.
“This Action Plan provides a framework for ensuring careers teachers have the appropriate training and support to provide this to all learners at all stages.”
The Careers Action Plan contains seven key strategic outcomes, with associated actions to:
- Establish a careers ecosystem that connects people of all ages to learning and employment opportunities throughout their lives.
- Introduce careers education in primary schools, with impactful initiatives and programmes supported by information resources at each stage.
- Build quality and capacity across the careers system by establishing quality standards and developing the capacity of all partners within the careers system to deliver high quality and consistent support.
- Reform careers delivery, including the provision offered in schools and with adults and better identifying and targeting those most in need.
- Strengthen special educational needs provision (SEN), and for those who experience barriers at all ages, including the introduction of new technologies and delivery processes.
- Develop a careers portal providing resources for people of all ages which will bridge the gap between education, skills and the economy.
- Work with parents, carers and partners as key influencers of the users of our services including resources and enhanced communication.
Read the Careers Action Plan 2025-2028.
Notes to editors:
1. Photo caption: Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Education Minister Paul Givan launch the Careers Action Plan 2025-2028.
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