Dr Farry unveiled Preparing for Success 2015-2020 – A Strategy for Careers Education and Guidance along Education Minister John O’Dowd in the Assembly today (Tuesday). It will help people fulfil their potential by raising awareness of the skills and qualifications most valued by employers, helping to address skills gaps and support economic growth.
“This strategy will help people make informed careers choices by supporting everyone, irrespective of age or ability, from young people in school, those wishing to join the labour market, those in employment needing advice on upskilling or reskilling, and those facing redundancy or unemployment,” he said.
“My Department will be taking forward a series of projects over the next year, including the introduction of a statutory duty to ensure the provision of impartial careers guidance and the development of a quality assurance and accountability framework for the careers system.
“This will ensure the best use of technology, provide more support for parents and for those with additional needs and disabilities, and provide employers and young people with a more streamlined method of organising and accessing work experience opportunities.”
Dr Farry’s Alliance colleague, East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle initiated the inquiry into careers education, information, advice and guidance as part of his work on the Department for Employment and Learning Committee.
“I believe we can always do more to help guide people into a suitable career and this strategy is a massive step forward in doing that. I want to pay tribute to Dr Farry for launching the strategy, and further improving not only the job prospects of people but their life chances.”