Many young people in Ireland could find their future career prospects are being harmed by poor guidance that is leading to them choosing unsuitable third-level courses.

This is according to a study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), which identified what it claimed are serious flaws in the advice currently offered by schools, the Irish Independent reports.

It found guidance is not offered soon enough during a pupil's school years, while there is too much emphasis on gaining points in Leaving Certificate exams to ensure entry to prestigious institutions, without consideration of the subjects students will take.

The ESRI found up to 80 per cent of sixth years said they would like more information about how their decisions will affect their future career choices, while half admitted to being "overwhelmed" by the process.

Meanwhile, the newspaper has reported this week that more than 7,000 college places have already been awarded to those who are not awaiting Leaving Certificate results, such as individuals who have qualifications from a Further Education and Training Awards Council course.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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