Leaving school? Don’t panic!
Published Tuesday 17th August 10 in Council - news and information releases news
‘Don’t panic’ is the clear message contained in a new guide aimed at helping young people who get their exam results this week decide what to do in the future.
'What Next?' is the result of public, private and voluntary sector organisations working together under the auspices of the East of England Skills and Competitiveness Partnership (EESCP).
EESCP includes the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), the Association of Universities in the East of England (AUEE) and local authorities.
The brand new guide, the first of its kind in the eastern region, outlines the different options available to 17 and 18-year-olds after they have finished their studies.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is playing its part by distributing the guide to schools, colleges and libraries across the town.
'What Next?' is full of useful web links and information to inform the choices young people will need to make.
Roger Hadley, Executive Councillor for Children and Learning, said: "Trying to decide what to do after receiving their results can be a difficult and stressful time for young people.
"It can be especially stressful for them when the results they get are not the results they expected to get.
"This guide provides useful information about the options which are available to young people after they finish school or college.
"Whatever they decide to do, continuing to learn new skills that will be required in the workplace is essential.
"Businesses need the right kind of young people with the right kind of skills to be able to compete both at home and abroad."
A printed version of the guide has been funded by the Association of Universities in the East of England.
The guide can be visited online at the AUEE website by clicking on www.uni-east.ac.uk/other-publications
Locally in Southend young people are also able to obtain advice and guidance through the Connexions service on 01702-420290.
Notes to journalists
The East of England Skills and Competitiveness Partnership (EESCP) facilitates closer collaboration and more cohesion between the public, private and voluntary sector organisations responsible for increasing skills, employment and economic growth in the East of England. Contributors to the partnership include: East of England Development Agency; Association of Universities in the East of England; Association of Colleges for East of England Region; Business Link East; COVER-East; East of England Business Group; Government Office for the East of England; Jobcentre Plus; Skills Funding Agency; Young Person's Learning Agency and Local Authority organisations throughout the Region.