A careers programme currently supporting 50,000 young people in York and North Yorkshire is to be expanded.

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has taken on the leadership of an existing careers hub which connects education and employers and prepares young people for their future. The change reflects a national shift for combined authorities, which are taking on a stronger strategic role in careers education at a local level.

The move supports Mayor David Skaith’s Cradle to Career ambition, backing children and young people at every stage; from early years to education, skills and employment.

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

"Everyone deserves the best start in life so they can have a fulfilling career, no matter their background.

 

"That's why we're investing in and expanding our Careers Hub, as we bring the service under our leadership.

 

"This is how we can inspire the next generation, tackle inequalities and ensure every student comes out of school ready and excited for the world of work."

The Careers Hub will now be led by the combined authority, in partnership with The Careers and Enterprise Company.

Currently, the hub works with all 75 secondary schools and colleges in the region, reaching around 50,000 students every year.  Among new delivery plans, the service aims to expand employer engagement and ensure every secondary school pupil in York and North Yorkshire accesses the equivalent of two weeks’ meaningful work experience.

The careers hub also plans to extend support into primary schools, as part of an all-age careers approach for York and North Yorkshire, while placing a greater focus on disadvantaged young people and reducing barriers to progression. By having leadership under the combined authority, careers education will be closely aligned with local skills and employer needs.

John Yarham, CEO of The Careers & Enterprise Company, said:

“We welcome the news that York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority will take on leadership of the Careers Hub. Combined Authorities bring together education, employers and local partners around the opportunities and skills their communities need.

 

“We look forward to working even more closely and in partnership with Mayor David Skaith’s Cradle to Career ambition, building on the strong foundations of the Careers Hub and our partnership to date. Together, we can ensure every school and every young person benefits from high-quality careers education and the connections they need to take their best next step.”

The careers hub helps young people through careers education, work experience and engagement with employers. It also connects schools, colleges, training providers, employers, local authorities, community partners and the National Careers Service. It is run in partnership with The Careers and Enterprise Company, an independent national body for careers education with a network of 44 careers hubs across England.

The move was endorsed at a York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority cabinet meeting on Friday 11 September.