An incredible 99 per cent of the 305 14-18 year old students who had careers advice from Futures during April to June this year, said that they were clear about their career plans after getting advice, compared to only 62 per cent before receiving help.
Futures’ professionally trained careers advisers provide one-to-one advice in many schools across Nottinghamshire and Nottingham city, as well as supporting students on results days and through group sessions on careers advice and employability.
There is much evidence to suggest that quality careers advice can significantly improve a young person’s future success in getting the job or training they aspire to.
In Nottinghamshire, Futures’ staff work as part of the County Council’s Family Service which supports families with multiple needs which may impact on young people’s chances of progressing into work or training. In Nottingham City, its advisers are funded by Nottingham City Council to support young people at most risk of becoming NEET (Not in education, employment or training).
Thanks to the level of support available to young people from Futures in both the city and county, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire enjoy some of the lowest NEET figures in the country.
Earlier this year Futures was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted for its delivery of the National Careers Service across the whole of the East Midlands. Its work in partnership with organisations such as the city and county councils were applauded.
Michelle Wright, Futures’ Operations Director, says:
“The importance of high-quality careers advice to young people cannot be underestimated. There is much debate nationally about the lack of it but here in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, we have hard evidence to show that it really does make a difference. All young people should have access to careers advice delivered by trained experts. Young people need a steer on the best routes to achieve their career goals to help them navigate their way into an eventual job.”
Vice-chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Children and Young People’s Committee, Councillor Tracey Taylor, says:
“We’re delighted that youngsters who receive careers advice from Futures are finding it useful. Young people across Nottinghamshire are benefitting from a service that is clearly making a difference to pupils, as they find their way towards the employment market.”
Cllr Sam Webster, Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Business, Education and Skills, says:
“Nottingham City Council works closely with Futures to ensure we provide top quality careers support within Nottingham’s schools. This feedback provides clear evidence that we are succeeding in helping young people to get prepared for the world of work.”
Young people who are undecided about their future options can attend Futures’ annual ‘What Next Careers and Opportunities Fair’ in the city, an event which last year attracted over 5,000 visitors.
‘What Next’ takes place on 11 and 12 October at Harvey Hadden Sports Village in Nottingham and is a great opportunity to talk to employers, colleges and training providers about opportunities in the region.