16/04/2014

Panel Appointed For Careers Education And Guidance Review

An independent panel has been appointed to lead the review of careers education and guidance in Northern Ireland.

The announcement of the panel follows the earlier appointment of Brian Ambrose as Chair.

The four panel members nominated by Minister Farry are:

• Brian Ambrose, Chief Executive, George Best Belfast City Airport

• Gordon Parkes, HR Director, Northern Ireland Electricity Ltd

• Joy Chambers, Area Leader, Workforce Solutions & Talent Management, Allstate NI

• Marie-Therese McGivern, Principal and Chief Executive, Belfast Metropolitan College.

The four panel members nominated by Minister O'Dowd are:

• Wayne Pickering, Head of Careers, Colaiste Feirste, Belfast

• Fionnula Vallely, Head of Careers, Dominican College, Belfast

• Paula Burns, Head of Careers, Omagh High School, Omagh

• Damian McGivern, Director of Employability and Marketing, University of Ulster.

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: "The review of careers education and guidance, lead by a panel of experts from industry, education and careers guidance, will ensure that the system delivers a service which can provide careers advice and guidance to our young people and those looking for a change in their career path.

"Careers education and guidance enables our young people to develop their knowledge and understanding of job opportunities, to manage their career development, and make relevant informed choices, ensuring successful transition into education, training or employment.

"Matching skills and qualifications to the needs of employers, while supporting people to realise their full potential in the workplace, is key to our economic growth and long-term prosperity."

Education Minister John O'Dowd added: "Strong and informative careers education and guidance is vital for young people as they progress through their school career.

"The decisions they make during this time can have a lasting impact on their ongoing education and career options so they need to be as well informed as possible about the options they have available to them.

"This review will help ensure young people are continuing to receive the best service possible in this regard."

(MH/JP)

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