§ Mr. Bill WalkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish guidelines to encourage careers service partnerships between education authorities and local enterprise companies.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythGuidelines on the formation of careers service partnerships are being issued today. Quality careers guidance is vital if young people are to achieve their potential and take full advantage of the numerous786W opportunities in education and training. It is also vital that employers play an active and increasing role in the careers service to ensure that the best possible information and advice are available.
Careers service partnerships are a significant move in that direction. The active involvement of local employers will enable the careers service to offer a valuable and flexible service to its clients and one which is fully attuned to local needs and opportunities to help promote partnerships.
Education authorities are being invited to submit applications for finance to assist them in meeting initial development costs of partnerships during 1992–93. Support is likely to range from £5,000 in the smallest authorities to £30,000 in the largest.
The Government are determined to give young people the best possible deal in education and training and in getting themselves a job. The issue of these guidelines is another step towards achieving that goal.