Sound careers advice and informed decisions vital to effective career planning - Dodds

Date published: 13 August 2020

With the A level results being published today and GSCE results following on 20 August, the Minister said:

“The need to take sound advice and making informed decisions is vitally important to effective career planning, especially at this time as our economy works to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. For many young people, obtaining results is often a significant milestone and I would encourage students to take advantage of professional careers guidance in order to make well informed decisions.”

The Minister continued:

“I understand that this can be a stressful time for young people, and perhaps this year more than ever, but I would like to reassure everyone that help and advice is available. My Department’s Careers Service can help young people align their career aspirations with the immediate and future needs of the labour market. Careers advisers have access to up-to-date information on employment trends provided by the Department’s economists and offer impartial advice and guidance on career pathways including further and higher education, training, and employment, including apprenticeships.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to offer all who are either receiving or waiting for their results my very best wishes and reassure you that the Careers Service team is ready and waiting to help you access the pathway best suited to you and your career ambitions.”

Head of the Careers Service, Frances O’Hara, said:

"I would encourage students to take advantage of the professional advice and guidance available from your careers adviser to help you take the next step. Young people and parents can also access useful information at the Careers page on the nidirect website which also contains contact details of careers offices throughout Northern Ireland.

"If you need immediate advice and guidance following your results I recommend you use the online webchat facility. You can contact a careers adviser by clicking on the “Chat with an adviser” button, or you can speak with an adviser by calling 0300 200 7820.

"Webchat and phone opening hours will be extended and advisers will be available via webchat and telephone from 9.30 am to 7.00v pm on Thursday 13 and Friday 14 August and again on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 August.”