I attended the above on behalf of the ICG. In truth the focus of the meet had more of an education bias that careers orientated, on this occasion.
Written by Steve Mason, ICG North East Council Representative
Statistics were presented giving a generalised picture of HE entry to the sector which looks healthy. There was concern expressed that those teachers delivering the 14-19 'Specialised Diplomas' would require appropriate training to do so! There is a new 'Pixar' film due on general release soon called 'Flushed Away' which is set in drainage/sewer systems. The ICE has secured funding from the DfES to develop educational resources to accompany the release of the film in Nov. 06.
We were given an insight into the QUEST programme which is administered via ICE to support students (sponsorships) embarking upon Civil Eng. HE programmes. Around 90 are available each year. The ICE have also been involved in a 'Top Trumps' style playing card game related to 'careers in science' which will be available to all schools before the end of the year. The reset of the meeting concentrated upon use of ICE ambassadors across the UK, EEA terms of ref. and opinion on a school resources booklet (civil/structural projects based). The next meet is planned for Nov. 06.
If any colleagues have any views on this occupational area that they would like me to feed in at the next meet, then please contact me electronically through the ICG. | 
