The Careers Profession Task Force: Vice Chair’s perspective

Abstract

The article gives an account of the Careers Profession Task Force, from the perspective of its Vice Chair, and considers its mission, methods, processes and challenges. This independent group was asked firstly; to articulate the vision for high quality careers provision, and secondly; to advise the government on what actions would be needed to equip careers professionals to deliver high quality services. In particular the group was asked to consider whether careers professionals should be required to hold a specialist qualification in careers, and whether there is a need for a professional specialism in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). The Task Force was convened by the Labour administration, but reported to the coalition government, formed of the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties. All fourteen of the formal recommendations are presented. The article concludes that with the work of the taskforce now completed, the challenge for career professionals gathers apace.