National Careers Service and “The Right Advice at the Right Time”

Friday 23rd March 2012 Written Statements

[The Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning (Mr John Hayes)]

In “New Challenges, New Chances”, the Government’s reform plan for Further Education and Skills published on 1 December 2011, we reinforced the importance of first class advice on careers and skills to help individuals make informed choices. It is right at the heart of our strategy for sustainable growth and social renewal.

That is why, on 5 April 2012, I will be launching the National Careers Service. This major new service will ensure that accurate information and professional advice about learning and work is available to all.

Alongside the launch of the National Careers Service, I will be publishing a document called “The Right Advice at the Right Time” bringing together in one place all that the Government and their partners are doing to ensure young people and adults get the advice they need on learning and work. We are now entering a new phase, where high quality, high status careers advice services should be readily available.

I believe passionately in the power of careers guidance to transform lives. We have debated these plans on a number of occasions, including during the passage of the Education Bill. Throughout, the passion and commitment of my parliamentary colleagues to getting the best for young people and adults has shone through. I will be pleased therefore to make sure that copies of “The Right Advice at the Right Time” are made available to colleagues in the Libraries in both Houses.