Employers get a taste of EmployabilityFEST at Deanes Restaurant
Following the success of last Year’s EmployabilityFEST, CCEA has decided to do it all again. For the second year running, schools across Northern Ireland will engage with employers and local communities in support of Education for Employability as part of the revised curriculum.
Speaking at the launch, Neil Anderson, Acting Chief Executive, CCEA, commented:
“EmployabilityFEST was a great success last year and the positive comments from the teachers, young people and employers involved left us in no doubt about running it again this year. Experiences varied from Royal Navy helicopter visits, to trips to the Belfast Telegraph and 2006 Shell Livewire winners Tickety Moo’s ice cream factory.
The objectives of the revised Northern Ireland Curriculum are clear; to develop the young person as an individual, and as a contributor to society, the economy and the environment. EmployabilityFEST greatly supports these objectives by creating opportunities for young people to experience the world of work in a real context and is thoroughly enjoyable for all involved.
Michael Deane, Owner of Michelin Star Deanes Restaurant said;
“At Deane’s we take great pride in being able to contribute to education in Northern Ireland. As a local employer, I see the benefits of supporting a programme that will help produce the world class workforce that I need.”
Nigel Smyth, Director, CBI also spoke at the launch;
“With last week’s investment conference this initiative is very timely. Northern Ireland now offers our young people more opportunities than ever before. Business and education working together is a great way to prepare the potential workforce of tomorrow to take full advantage of them. Young people need to understand the importance of having the right attitudes, skills and knowledge that make them employable. At the same time we need to dramatically improve the quality and consistency of careers education, advice and guidance to ensure young people make better choices to match the opportunities available."
