Page 142 - valuing-diversity-guidance-for-labour-market-integration-of-migrants

Valuing diversity: guidance for labour market integration of migrants

Box 2 National Careers Service, an individual step-by-step path to integration

Ian (*) completed high school in Romania and later enrolled on a university course but
he was not able to finish his study programme due to financial difficulties.
He left university and began work in Romania for a double glazing company; here he
learned the skills of installing windows and contracting for new clients. Unfortunately
the economic situation in Romania was dire and he did not progress.
In 2009 he moved to the United Kingdom and began working in the construction
industry on a self-employed basis; initially as a labourer and later progressing to
windows fixer. He completed an NVQ level 2 in window fitting, NVQ level 3 in
fenestration and insulation. He also holds certificates to show competence in using
various kinds of machinery on a construction site.
When he first arrived in the United Kingdom Ian had a basic level of English, but this
was greatly improved through practice while at work. In order to undertake and
complete an NVQ qualification he needed to first gain the underpinning skills and
qualifications in literacy and numeracy. Ian has now passed the exams for both
numeracy and literacy at level 1. These qualifications have enabled him to take the
NVQ level 3 in fenestration and insulation. Ian’s success in studying has been
instrumental in developing his confidence at work.
Ian booked an appointment with a National Careers Service (NCS) adviser because
he needed a CV to secure better employment. He had limited IT skills and the NCS
adviser helped him create and type his CV, to produce a professional document. The
adviser also explained that Ian could develop his IT skills by enrolling on a course at a
local college.
Ian is now working in his chosen trade as a skilled worker and recently received the
accolade of worker of the week from colleagues at his present company. At our last
meeting he seemed more confident; he feels that he has achieved most of his short-
term goals.

(*) The name has been changed.

Source: National careers service.

6.2. Structure and organisation

The typology of practices in public policy tends to follow the existing policy
packages put into place to respond to general problems in (vocational) education
and training, employment and social security. Public sector practices often tend
to insert themselves into policy packages aimed at:
(a) reducing early dropouts from VET and education, in which immigrants and
citizens of immigrant descent will constitute a higher risk group, which may
deserve a special concern and specific measures;

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