157 Group lends support to careers guidance campaign
9th September 2011
Friday 9 September 2011
157 Group lends support to careers guidance campaign
BEGINS
The 157 Group of large influential FE colleges today added its voice to those calling on the government to think again on the future of the Careers Service. The 157 Group has been enthusiastic about proposals for an all age guidance service but fears that proposed changes to the service for young people will deny many the opportunity for a face to face interview with a qualified careers advisor.
Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group said, "We are seriously concerned that delegating responsibility for the provision of careers guidance to schools will result in many young people not receiving impartial professional guidance at a critical stage in their lives. We know that many schools do not give students the full picture about the opportunities available in vocational education and apprenticeships."
Frank McLoughlin CBE, chair of the 157 Group and principal of City and Islington College added, "It is crucial that correct information, advice and guidance is available to ensure learners are placed on the best possible pathways to fulfil their ambitions in life."
The 157 Group will be working with the Institute of Careers Guidance to develop a policy paper to present to ministers in both the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Education this autumn.
ENDS
Notes for editors
About the 157 Group
The 157 Group represents 27 of the most influential colleges in the FE sector. It was formed in 2006 in response to paragraph 157 of Sir Andrew Foster's report on the future of further education colleges, in which he argued that principals of large successful colleges should play a greater role in policymaking.
CONTACT
Gemma Knott 07581 354 750 Email gemma.knott@157group.co.uk The 157 Group Limited P O Box 58147 London SW8 9AF Website: www.157group.co.uk
