Page 105 - Guiding-at-risk-youth-through-learning-to-work-Lessons-from-across-Europe

Guiding at-risk youth through learning to work
Lessons from across Europe

CMS also allows for the lifelong development of the skills necessary for
‘managing one’s non-linear career pathways’, which are needed for full
participation in knowledge-based economies (Sultana, 2009a). Put simply, the
world of work is changing: there are fewer (if any) jobs for life; there is greater
competition for vacancies; there are fewer graduates in traditional graduate jobs;
there is greater flexibility regarding roles and tasks; and, most important, there is
a pervasive need to continue learning new skills to stay employable. CMS can
help young people to face these challenges, enabling them to identify labour
market opportunities and acquire relevant and transferable ‘meta-competences’.
Countries which have incorporated the CMS approach into broader national
strategies have often done so to enhance economic competitiveness. As part of
its integrative approach, Scotland has launched the initiative Curriculum for
excellence. Other EU Member States (France, the Netherlands and Austria) have
avoided ‘policy overload’ by mapping CMS into the European reference
framework of key competences for lifelong learning (Sultana, 2009a).
Despite key policy references to CMS in several national policy documents
across EU Member States, none have yet developed a CMS national framework.
However, research indicates that many countries have extensive experience in
supporting the development of career management skills through other direct and
indirect measures. Measures can be grouped into four categories:
(a) integrating a career management skills approach into guidance provided at
school;
(b) holistic guidance service centres for young people;
(c) online guidance tools supporting transition;
(d) validation systems to improve career management skills.

These categories are further examined, beginning with the different ways in
which the study countries have used the CMS approach in school curricula.
These findings are primarily based on the conclusions from the recent peer
learning event on career management skills, hosted by the European lifelong
guidance policy network. The later sections are based on a wider review of
relevant literature and make use of pertinent case studies, prepared to provide a
practical illustration of the themes concerned.

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