A campaign to encourage young people to join one of the professions has been supported by the International Association of Book-keepers (IAB).
Professions Week took place last week and was launched at the House of Commons, with the support of the Kings Hill-based IAB and 13 other professional bodies.
The week was aimed at increasing interest and awareness in the professions among 14 to 19 year olds. It also gave support to teachers and careers advisors, giving them relevant materials to help young people make informed decisions with regards to the professions.
Professions Week followed the release of a Sterling White Paper in August 2012, titled Access to the Professions. The week not only focused on giving support to educational advisors and raising awareness of the professions, but also helped increase the visibility of professional bodies and their role in helping the economy.
Sir John Stanley, MP for Tonbridge and Malling, who was invited by the Association’s President, Fabian Hamilton MP, visited the IAB’s stand at the official launch.
“Professions Week was launched with the aim of raising the profile of careers in bookkeeping, accountancy, taxation, personnel and development and others among young people,” said Malcolm Trotter, Chief Executive of the IAB.
“These are crucial roles in supporting businesses in the UK and often provide students with routes to a rewarding career with no need for University courses and the associated fees.”
The IAB runs a number of qualifications that open up a path into the financial professions and can be studied either at colleges, adult education centres or via distance learning.
“We hope that as a result of this week of activity, more talented young people will recognise the value of the UK’s professions and the bodies that support them,” said Malcolm.
More information on careers in the professions, professional qualifications and vacancies can be found at www.totalprofessions.com
For more information on careers in bookkeeping and the IAB visit www.iab.org.uk