A new three-year Careers Action Plan has been jointly launched by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Education Minister Paul Givan.

This collaborative plan, the first of its kind in over a decade, aims to significantly improve and expand careers services for people of all ages across Northern Ireland.

The comprehensive plan is the result of extensive collaborative work between the Department for the Economy and the Department of Education. It outlines a range of practical measures designed to ensure more individuals can benefit from careers education and guidance, starting from a younger age.

Minister Archibald stated: "This Action Plan is the first of its kind in more than a decade and will reform delivery of careers educational services so that even more people can benefit, and from a younger age. Actions include introducing careers education from primary school age, strengthening provision for learners with special educational needs, and developing a new digital careers portal. Delivering this Plan will make it easier for everyone – young people and adults – to get the support they need to plan their futures and access good jobs."

The plan will foster closer working relationships between careers service providers both within and outside school settings. This collaborative approach will encourage sharing of resources and knowledge, the adoption of new technologies, and a drive towards enhanced professionalism, all to benefit users across all age groups. Education Minister Paul Givan emphasised the importance of early engagement with careers learning: "I want to ensure that careers-related learning starts early in the curriculum and there is meaningful engagement with the world of work for all our learners, particularly those who face barriers to opportunity. The increased choice of qualifications and pathways available to young people means that it is more important than ever for young people to receive high quality careers education, information, advice and guidance. This Action Plan provides a framework for ensuring careers teachers have the appropriate training and support to provide this to all learners at all stages."

The Careers Action Plan 2025-2028 contains seven key strategic outcomes, with associated actions, including:

• Establishing a careers ecosystem that connects people of all ages to learning and employment opportunities throughout their lives.

• Introducing careers education in primary schools with impactful initiatives and resources at each stage.

• Building quality and capacity across the careers system through standards and partner development.

• Reforming careers delivery for both in-school and adult provisions, with a focus on identifying and supporting those most in need.

• Strengthening Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, including new technologies and delivery processes for those facing barriers.

• Developing a comprehensive digital careers portal to bridge the gap between education, skills, and the economy.

• Working more closely with parents, carers, and partners as key influencers for service users, providing resources and enhanced communication.

The full Careers Action Plan 2025-2028 is available for public viewing on the Department for the Economy website.