Gordon Kirk represented the ICG at this workshop focusing on the education and careers priorities of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) over the coming period.
He reports from the workshop held on the 18 January. Some of the key areas for ICE action are;
Work Experience & Work Related
· Thematic support for primary education e.g. 'water.'
· A policy for supporting the Diploma in Construction & the Build Environment.
· Offering ICE approved models for work experience. The ICE provides individual not corporate membership at the moment. In order to promote work experience and other education links among civil engineering employers, it will now adopt corporate membership categories, also open to schools, along the lines of the ICG membership structure.
· Promote high standards, backed by advice and training, for ICE members working in education and expect the same from teachers seeking to engage with civil engineering organisations.
Flexible Route-ways into the Profession
· It was recognised that much of the increased demand for civil engineers (for example regeneration for the Olympics) will have to come from career changers and via less formal entry routes.
· ICG members have noted that there are significant number of young people already at 'Level 3' who have discovered their interest in, and aptitude for, civil engineering 'too late' for traditional entry routes, such as those with the 'wrong' 'A' levels. While some might be lucky and find employment and part time HNC courses, the message at the moment is that they have missed the boat. ICG members have suggested that more Apprenticeships at Level 3, with entry not restricted to those at Level 2 and other creative options, for example full time HNCs might be helpful directions for the ICE to explore. The ICE has noted this.
Working with Others
· The policy statement for education and careers work was debated and the ICE has committed itself to work with experts such as Education Business Partnership organisations and the ICG, to achieve its goals.
Increased Awareness of the Profession, in particular among Under-represented Groups
· It was recognised that the message about civil engineering to young people in education could be more effective and work needs to be undertaken on both the message and the medium. 'Online communities' of ICE members, open to questions and engagement rather than just as 'flat role models' (feedback from young people) will be explored, as will modules for schools and colleges careers intranets and Careersbox video approaches. The ICG has offered to partner with the ICE to develop effective communications strategies.
· Develop the appeal and image of civil engineering to highlight the huge environmental impact it has for example environmental improvement, water purification and supply, sustainable power generation and waste management.
· Explore the perception of civil engineering among young women and different cultural groups with a view to tailored careers messages.
The ICG is looking forward to continuing collaboration with the ICE where this supports ICG members in doing their jobs, improves IAG for our client groups, improves work related education or increases the opportunities for employment and training in this field.
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