Move to raise aspirations welcomed

02 Nov 2009

More people could opt for higher education thanks to a government scheme.

An expert has welcomed the Department for Children, Schools and Families decision to provide careers advice for primary school pupils, which could see more students opting for higher education.

Some 38 English primary schools will teach pupils about careers this year and expose them to a higher education experience under a new government scheme aimed at also raising social mobility.

Commenting, Catherine Hanly of Parenting Expert said: "Raising aspirations for children can only be a good thing, particularly if it means they realise there''s an alternative to winning the X Factor."

"Employers now often think school leavers have an over-inflated sense of entitlement to a great job without having put in any of the hard work or hours. This sort of guidance early on in school life might help to change that."

The move could also see children opting to pursue A-level courses in preparation for higher education programmes such as business and management training or IT courses.

Such programmes are available through distance learning, which also makes it possible to study while working.