Careers
Curriculum vision
It is the belief of the college that preparing students for the ever-changing world of work is a crucial element of their education. With this in mind, students receive information, advice and guidance to support them as they progress along their career pathway.
Information, advice and guidance
Students in Parkhall Integrated College undertake a careers and guidance programme from year 8 to year 14.
With Education for Employability at the heart of the revised Northern Ireland Curriculum, the careers programme has been developed to meet the requirements of the Department of Education, including a focus on:
- Work in the local and global economy
- Career planning
- Skills and qualities for work
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship
The programme aims to develop students as contributors to the economy with the knowledge, skills and qualities which will enable them to excel in the world of work. The use of a variety of teaching strategies ensures that students are prepared for life beyond school in an increasingly complex and changing world of work.
Parkhall Integrated College has excellent links with the Careers Service NI who support students and parents/guardians during key transition periods with impartial advice and guidance.
Students will also take part in specific careers-related workshops facilitated by outside agencies, including decision making, interview skills, CV writing, to enhance their employability skills as they enter into the world of work. This extensive work-related programme is further strengthened through the college’s work experience programme which year 13 students complete in June.
Students are supported by the Careers department during key transition periods within their school career:
- Year 10: Key stage 4 option choices
- Year 12: Post-16 options choices
- Year 14: Post-18 options choices
Key stage 4
The Careers department is conscious of providing as many opportunities to students as possible, and so offers BTEC Public Services and OCN Level 2 Certificate in Employability at key stage 4.
Key stage 5
The Careers department offers BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Uniformed Protective Services and OCN Level 3 Diploma in Employability and Development skills.
Extra-curricular
The Careers department runs a number of different trips and visits to embed students' understanding of the opportunities available to them.
Our Commitment to Career Education
At Parkhall Integrated College, we are fully committed to delivering high-quality careers education, information, advice, and guidance (CEIAG) to all our students. As part of this ongoing commitment, we are working towards achieving the Quality in Careers Standard, a nationally recognised award highlighting excellence in career provision.
This journey reflects our dedication to preparing students for bright and successful futures by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to make informed choices about their education, training, and employment pathways.
Current Labour Market Information
Key Labour Market Snapshot
- Unemployment rate: approximately 2.2% remaining low by historical standards, though higher than early‑2024 levels
- Employment rate (16–64): around 71.6%, broadly stable but showing limited growth over the year
- Economic inactivity: approximately 26.7%, influenced by long‑term illness, caring responsibilities, and extended education participation
Priority Growth Sectors in Northern Ireland
🧑⚕️ Health & Social Care
Typical pathways:
- GCSEs including English and Science
- A‑levels or vocational qualifications
- Apprenticeships, college courses, or university degrees
🏗️ Construction & Built Environment
In‑demand roles:
- Electricians and plumbers
- Site managers and quantity surveyors
- Health & safety officers
Pathways:
- GCSEs (especially Maths)
- Apprenticeships and FE construction courses
⚙️ Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing
Pathways:
- GCSE Maths and Science
- A‑levels or Level 3 engineering qualifications
- Higher‑level apprenticeships or university
💻 Digital & IT
In‑demand roles:
- Software development
- Cyber security
- Data analysis
- IT support roles
- Health & safety officers
Skills in Demand Across All Careers
Employers consistently highlight the importance of:
- Communication and teamwork
- Numeracy and digital skills
- Problem‑solving and adaptability
- Work experience and employability skills
Looking Ahead
The Northern Ireland Skills Barometer forecasts a potential skills shortfall of over 5,000 people per year through to 2033 if education and training do not keep pace with employer needs. Young people who continue in education, apprenticeships, or technical training will be best placed to access future opportunities.
Sources
- Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA)
- Department for the Economy (DfE)
- Northern Ireland Skills Barometer (Ulster University Economic Policy Centre)
- Office for National Statistics (ONS)
- The Brief NI
This page forms part of the school’s CEIAG provision and is reviewed annually to reflect the latest labour market information.
