A membership body which represents 27 further education colleges has called 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.
However, it fears 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.
A debate on the Careers Service is due to take place tomorrow (Tuesday) in the House of Commons.
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