An independent survey of 500 employers in England and Wales has found that less than one in five employers believe school pupils are inspired to take up a career in engineering or manufacturing industries.
Despite warnings that the number of school leavers entering into industry careers is lowering by the year the survey, run on behalf of EAL, found that employers are concerned that teachers and advisors are not creating a positive impression of modern British industry.
Only 17 percent of survey respondents believe pupils are getting a positive impression from their school while almost half (49 percent) said teachers and careers advisors are failing to inspire pupils to join industry.
Almost 39 percent said the responsibility lies with the schools, which should be encouraging pupils to consider an industry career, while more than 35 percent said careers advisors are also responsible. Approximately 35 percent said parents have a role to play in encouraging school leavers to consider a career in industry.
A total of 28 percent agreed that Government has a share of the responsibility, yet only 18 percent said employers should be encouraging school pupils to join their sectors. Just 14 percent placed the onus on sector bodies and trade associations.
Ann Watson, Managing Director of EAL, commented: “The survey results clearly show that employers are unconvinced that schools are doing all they can to encourage their pupils to take up a career in engineering, manufacturing or building services, among other sectors. The launch of the National Careers Service has made schools responsible for securing independent, impartial careers guidance for pupils, with the freedom to make arrangements that fit their needs and circumstances– so it’s vital to ensure industry careers are fairly and accurately represented.”
