Pupils at a further five schools across Swindon, plus an additional seven from Wiltshire, will be able to access top quality careers advice to help prepare them for the world of work from next month. Last September, the Careers and Enterprise Company launched the first 20 Careers Hubs across England. Each Hub brings together a group of up to 40 schools and colleges to improve careers support for young people in their area.
 
Following a successful bid by the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP), the scheme has been extended and from July, will include every secondary school and college setting in Swindon and 29 schools and colleges in Wiltshire.
 

Careers Hubs are a central part of the Government’s Careers Strategy. The strategy aims to improve careers education and help prepare young people for the world of work. 

The Rt Hon Damian Hinds MP, Secretary of State for Education, said: 

“It is so important that young people get to know about a range of different jobs and careers so they can see the possible opportunities out there. Good careers education is such a valuable asset that helps children to explore future possibilities and go on to lead happy rewarding lives."
“Careers Hubs bring together schools, colleges, universities and employers to share their expertise and improve the careers education on offer to make sure young people have the information they need to make the most of their talents."
“This investment will give thousands more young people access to expert careers support as they take those first exciting steps into their future.”

 

The Swindon & Wiltshire Careers Hub, like others across the country, has access to support and funding to help them meet high standards of careers education. Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) were invited to lead bids to establish Careers Hubs.

 
Amanda Burnside, board member of the Swindon & Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership and chair of the Skills and Talent Sub-group, said: “Enabling businesses to have an appropriately skilled and competitive workforce to support growth, innovation and creativity remains an investment priority for the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP).
 
“I am delighted that our bid was successful as it will enable the Swindon & Wiltshire Careers Hub to extend the good work that is already happening between schools and employers, so that together we provide the workforce and skills needed now and in the future for strong economic growth.”