Jim has today shown his support for the first National Careers Service for all ages. In our more complex and competitive job market it has become tougher to find employment. The Government recognises that getting the right information, advice and guidance at the right time has never been more important.

To ensure that young people benefit from this service, schools will be given the duty to ensure their pupils have access to independent careers guidance which meets their needs. Pupils need to be well-informed about the world of work, their options for employment and students support services so that they are able to access all the opportunities available to them.

Over the coming months, a range of services and support will become available for young people and adults. In particular information and advice will be made available on:

• Apprenticeships - the Government’s flagship training programme allowing you to earn whilst you train.

• Courses offered by Further Education colleges, including what proportion of students go on to employment.

• Higher Education programmes of Study.

• Funding for learning, including grants, loans and other awards. From 2013, new loans will be available for Further Education courses.

• Learning with private training providers.

• The job market, both nationally and in individual sectors of the economy. Information about the job market will be brought together from a range of expert sources, including Sector Skills Councils, employers, Local Employer Partnerships, the Labour Force Survey, employer associations and chartered institutes.

Jim says, ‘In these tough times it has become more important that job seekers and students are given the best advice and relevant information to help them find suitable employment or access training or further education. I am delighted that the Government recognises that high quality information is important if people from all age groups can be successful in the increasingly competitive jobs market and learn about the opportunities that are available for them.’

You can contact the National Careers Service via their helpline on 0800 100 900 or for more information visit their website at nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk